Tobacco Cessation Program

Kick It California (formerly California Smokers' Helpline) is a tobacco cessation program available to Health Net, Community Health Plan of Imperial Valley and CalViva Health Medi-Cal members. The program offers specialized services for teens, pregnant smokers, individuals who chew tobacco, and e-cigarette users, and extends information on how to help a friend or family member quit tobacco use.

Health Net will cover tobacco cessation counseling for at least two separate quit attempts per year, without prior authorization, and with no mandatory break between quit attempts. Non-pregnant adult members are eligible for a 90-day regimen of any Food and Drug Administration- (FDA-) approved tobacco cessation medication. This includes over-the-counter medications with a prescription from the provider. At least one FDA-approved medication will be made available without prior authorization. Members may request a referral to group counseling by calling the Health Education Department at 800-804-6074.

Telephonic quit coaching

• Customized one-on-one coaching with a quit coach over the phone in 6 languages (English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Korean and Vietnamese).
• Tailored quit plan to member’s unique circumstances.
• Coaches attend continuing education courses on cultural competency, undergo rigorous training and apprenticeships, and participate in weekly monitoring and case reviews.
• Available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–9 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• To enroll, members may use an online web form, or call directly at 800-300-8086 (English) or 800-600-8191 (Spanish).

Texting program

• Texting program for smoking or vaping in English and Spanish.
• Designed to give extra support to quit cigarettes or vapes during the 6 months after enrollment.
• Messages deal with motivation, planning, getting support, self-talk, recovering from slips and more.
• Incorporate both automated messaging and personalized support. Quit coaches respond to questions within one business day.

Chat coaching

• Alternative option for both members and heath care providers.
• Platform allows members quick responses to inquiries such as available services and the possibility of receiving Nicotine Replacement Therapy.
• Health care providers may use the chat to find answers to cessation-related questions.
• Utilizes secure HIPAA-compliant live chat software.
• Available in English only, Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–9 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Mobile apps

• “No Vape” and “No Butts” apps designed to help people quit smoking and vaping.
• Features tools such as personal log of smoking triggers, motivational reminders and links to helpful resources.
• Available for download on the App Store^® and Google Play^®.

Visit Kick It California for more details.