To file lawsuits on behalf of their clients to delay and ultimately destroy what could be one of the most significant actions ever taken to protect the health of Americans. It most likely will be years before this issue is resolved. In the meantime there is plenty that can be done right now to help your patients, young and old, be free of tobacco. Start by making good use of the negative publicity that tobacco has been getting lately. It is a natural jumping off point to start talking with your patients about quitting the habit.
Guidelines are available.
The second way that physicians can have major impact is to act for change locally and encourage their medical societies to do the same. It is possible to get very effective laws on the state and local level and to do so much faster than by waiting for action on the national level. The most important items to target are youth access and clean indoor air laws. Meanwhile, the AMA plans to remain very active in promoting tobacco control. Two particular programs merit special note.