Objectives: To assess the relationship between the mode of entry into a quitline service and subsequent tobacco use treatment outcomes.
Methods: A retrospective study using logistic regression analysis of 11,040 Arizona Smokers' Helpline (ASHLine) clients was conducted to determine whether self- or medical referrals were related to 7- and 30-day point prevalence tobacco treatment outcomes at 7 months postquit.
Results: Smokers referred to the ASHLine by a health care provider were more likely to quit smoking than were those who self-referred.
Conclusions: Mode of entry into a quitline service for smoking cessation is related to treatment outcomes. Reasons for this outcome are uncertain and require additional research.