New mobile app to help people give up smoking
A NEW mobile app is aimed at helping people in the Bailiwick to give up smoking with a virtual medication-assisted comprehensive treatment programme.
The Health Improvement Commission for Guernsey and Alderney has announced the launch of the pilot for digital clinic Quit Genius.
The digital programme is in its infancy and initially 100 people will have the chance to sign up for the pilot scheme to determine if it could be a success locally.
‘Quit Genius is a smoking cessation support system delivered though a smartphone app, connecting people who want to quit with dedicated UK coaches for a period of up to 12 weeks,’ the Health Commission explained.
‘People who enrol will receive personalised interactive support including learning new techniques to deal with cravings. Those taking part will also get free nicotine replacement therapy products to support their quit attempts as well as a breath sensor to help keep track of the effects of being smoke-free.’
Grace Lindsay, tobacco harm reduction officer at the commission, said the app offers a new route for people looking to stop smoking.
‘We’re pleased to bring this new technology to the Bailiwick, which provides accessible support to those who may have the motivation to quit smoking but find it hard to attend face-to-face appointments.
‘We’re delighted to partner with Quitline on this project, who will continue to provide a dedicated in-person service to all who’d like it,’ she said.
The team at Quitline is also excited about the pilot programme because they know time can
be a barrier to accessing support.
‘Having a coach in people’s pockets will really add another string to the bow at Quitline and we are looking forward to offering this as an alternative to the face-to-face service for those who might find it a better option,’ said Quitline manager Andrea Tostevin.
‘Quitline will continue to offer professional, nurse-led local support, as this is known to work very well.
‘The Quit Genius app is another tool in our box and increases the options for people to access support in our community.’
n Anyone interested in the pilot programme can sign up at https://my.quitgenius.com/healthimprovementcommission.
