Health

At first glance, the decision to quit smoking can seem like a financially challenging one: The thought of shelling out hundreds of dollars for nicotine patches and gums, drugs, and other stop-smoking aids may be enough to deter even the most motivated self-reformers. But compared to the cost of a daily (or even weekly) pack of cigarettes, the drain on your wallet is only temporary. Plus, if you're successful, the cost of quitting can quickly pay for itself.

Thankfully, there are many low- to no-cost resources to help you quit smoking; even expensive medication can often be obtained at discounted prices. Here are seven tips for making quitting cost less.

1. Check your insurance policy.
In a 2002 survey by America's Health Insurance Plans, a national association that represents the health insurance industry, a majority of insurers reported providing full coverage for some form of smoking-cessation treatment. More than 40% of the companies who responded to the survey also reported full coverage for bupropion (Zyban), one of the leading smoking-cessation drugs.

2. Take advantage of free counseling and support services.
Once you’ve decided to quit, you’ll have a much greater chance of success if you plan ahead and get some sort of support, says Bill Blatt, manager of tobacco control programs for the American Lung Association. Fortunately, getting a plan—a personalized one, at that—is free. To get yours, call the national quit line at 800-QUIT-NOW, which automatically connects you to a quit specialist in your state. The counselor will ask you about your smoking habits and can help you determine which aids (gum, drugs, patches, etc.) might be worth a try.
The counselor also can direct you to local counseling and support groups; the latter are often free or have a nominal registration fee. Once you’ve stopped smoking, you can also call the quit line if you need to discuss cravings or coping strategies.

Local chapters of the American Lung Association have low-cost group clinics in cities across the country. "Depending on where you live, there’s a $75 to $150 registration fee, but we encourage the local chapters to avoid turning people away due to financial problems," says Blatt. In other words, don’t be afraid to mention it if the cost is prohibitive. Another option: the American Lung Association’s online program, Freedom From Smoking. For more information about both, go to LungUSA.org.

The American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, and other nonprofits such as the YMCA may also conduct programs in your area.