Comparing Primary Care Physicians' Smoking Cessation Counseling Techniques to Motivational Interviewing

• DOI: 10.1097/adm.0b013e3182879cc5
• Publication Date: 2013-03-22T21:15:03Z
• Authors: James J. Werner; Peter J. Lawson; Vanessa Panaite; Mary M. Step; Susan A. Flocke
• Keywords: Motivational Interviewing; Interview

Objectives: This study examined the degree of similarity between motivational interviewing (MI) methods and smoking cessation techniques that are routinely used by primary care physicians. Its purpose was to inform development more effective MI-based health behavior change training programs for Methods: Visits physicians were audio-recorded in northeast Ohio from 2005 2008. Doctor-patient talk about (n = 73) analyzed adherence MI using Motivational Interviewing Skills Code (MISC) version 2.1 behavioral coding system. Participating not provided with as part blinded study's purpose. Results: Physicians displayed adherent behaviors 56% discussions nonadherent 57%. The most common statements involved affirming patient; least requests patient's permission before raising concerns. frequent directing, confronting, warning patient. made simple reflections complex 36% 25% visits, respectively. Conclusions: both approximately equal proportions, suggesting a base counseling skills upon which additional can be built. Efforts improve smoking-cessation effectiveness may involve providing brief models skills, while reinforcing physicians' current use methods.