Providers can use HIPAA compliant text messages to reach out to young adults who may be struggling with e-cigarette addiction, providing support and resources for quitting, ultimately helping to improve their overall health.
Vaping among young adults
Vaping has become a major public health concern, especially among young adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that e-cigarettes “remained the most commonly used tobacco product among youths. Among middle school and high school students who currently use e-cigarettes, 25.2% used e-cigarettes daily, and 89.4% used flavored e-cigarettes.”
Furthermore, “aerosol from e-cigarettes can also contain harmful and potentially harmful substances. These include cancer-causing chemicals and tiny particles that can be inhaled deep into lungs.”
The CDC also warns that the long-term health effects of vaping are still unknown, and there is concern about the impact on brain development in young users.
Providers can help address this issue by educating patients on the risks of vaping and providing resources for smoking cessation programs. More specifically, text message-based interventions have shown promising results in helping individuals quit vaping.
Are text messages effective in vaping cessation?
Yes, text messages can be effective in vaping cessation among young adults. A randomized clinical trial on the effectiveness of a vaping cessation text message program among young adult e-cigarette users “demonstrated that a tailored and interactive text message intervention was effective in promoting vaping cessation among [young adults].”
Participants “reported higher levels of intervention satisfaction compared with control participants,” and stated that these interventions “suggested quitting strategies that were new to [them].”
Additionally, programs like Truth Initiative’s ‘This is Quitting’ use text messaging to support young people in quitting vaping, “helping more than 200,000 young people to quit using e-cigarettes.”
While text message-based interventions can be effective in vaping cessation, providers must a HIPAA compliant texting platform, like Paubox texting, which uses encryption and other security measures to safeguard protected health information (PHI) during transit and rest.
Benefits of HIPAA compliant texts
Personalized support
Providers can personalize HIPAA compliant text messages, offering support tailored to the individual's needs and progress. For example, if a student reports feeling stressed and craving a vape during finals week, the provider can send encouraging messages with coping strategies to help them through this challenging time.
Motivation
HIPAA compliant text messages can be tailored to send daily inspirational messages or tips on managing cravings, keeping young adults motivated on their quitting journey. Providers can also text reminders of the long-term health benefits young adults are working towards, reinforcing their decision to quit.
Accountability
Providers can also schedule regular check-ins to monitor progress and provide ongoing support as needed, holding young adults accountable for their progress. HIPAA compliant text message-based check-ins should be simple and non-intrusive to help young adults stay on track with their vaping cessation goals without feeling pressured.
Access to resources
HIPAA compliant text messages can include secure links to additional resources like online support groups or quitting hotlines, providing individuals with multiple avenues for additional support in their journey to quit vaping.
Holistic approach
Providers can integrate HIPAA compliant text message-based support with other quitting programs like group counseling sessions, access to nicotine replacement therapy, or individual therapy. For example, providers can send therapy appointment reminders for a more comprehensive approach to help individuals quit vaping.
Increasing patient engagement
HIPAA compliant text messages can increase patient engagement, leading to better health outcomes. For instance, a provider can send a message encouraging a patient to share any concerns they have regarding their treatment plan, helping them take an active role in their quitting journey.
Go deeper: Improve patient engagement with HIPAA compliant text messages
FAQs
What is HIPAA compliant texting?
HIPAA compliant texting involves using secure messaging platforms, like Paubox, to exchange protected health information (PHI) while adhering to the regulations outlined in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Is texting PHI without encryption a HIPAA violation?
Yes, texting PHI without encryption violates HIPAA regulations, putting patients' health information at risk of unauthorized access or disclosure.
Can providers use regular texting for communicating PHI?
No, using regular texting for PHI is a HIPAA violation, and can result in severe penalties including fines and legal repercussions. Providers must use a HIPAA compliant texting platform, like Paubox, which uses encryption and other security measures required to protect sensitive health information (PHI).
