Health insurance companies usually (though not always) lose money when people get extremely ill and rack up high medical bills, so it is certainly understandable that they are now addressing the effects smoking has on their bottom line. Many now offer smoking cessation treatment coverage, …show more content…
In fact, at this time a full five percent of employers are charging employees that smoke more for their health insurance benefits, while one percent of employers won't hire smokers at all. These statistics are expected to rise dramatically as public outcry continues to rage against the effects of second-hand and third-hand …show more content…
To offset the cost of smoking, start with contacting the current health insurance company regarding coverage of smoking cessation treatment and any resulting financial incentives. Consult a physician for the best treatment option for you, and be patient. This is not an overnight process.
For anyone that lacks health insurance, the cost of smoking cessation can be more than smoking in the first place. Fortunately, a number of community clinics and national program assist with these costs. If there are no programs available in your area, one of the newest, most cost-effective options is to try electronic cigarettes. These allow smokers to gradually reduce their nicotine intake down to nothing, while offering flavored, non-nicotine cartridges to maintain the habit while kicking the addiction.
Whatever method of smoking cessation you choose, it is clear that the financial benefits will include lower medical costs, including that of health