INTRODUCTION: Most of German health insurance funds provide and reimburse cognitive-behavioural group-based courses for smoking cessation according to section sign 20 Abs. 1 SGB V or section sign 20 a SGB V. The main goal of this study is to conduct a review of the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of these smoking cessation courses and their methodical approaches. METHODS: A literature search for available systematic reviews, meta-analyses, health technology assessments (HTA), and guidelines was conducted in relevant databases. RESULTS: Overall, six publications were included. Two sources confirm the long-term efficacy of group-based smoking cessation approach [OR (odds ratio)=1.3 and OR=2.17] with meta-analyses. The majority of available reviews or national guidelines are based on the results of these two researches. Two further reviews estimate the behaviour-based group therapy as effective. The efficacy estimation of single behavioural intervention components (skill training, problem solv-ing, relapse prevention) varies from OR=0.91 to OR=1.5. The evidence is insufficient for the internationally widespread course "Allen Carr's Easyway". No relevant publications on economic issues could be included for the courses currently made available by the statutory health insurance. CONCLUSION: The methodical approaches of smoking cessation courses offered by health insurance funds are effective and recommendable according to the available secondary literature. The efficacy of these interventions is not very high and solely covers general methodical approaches or programme components. Evaluations of current smoking cessation courses are rare and do not meet internationally accepted standards. Further research should be aimed to evaluate the established programmes with high-quality health economic studies.

Gesundheitswesen. 2009 Jun 2. Rasch A, Greiner W. 1Fakultät für Gesundheitswissenschaften, Gesundheitsökonomie und Gesundheitsmanagement (AG5), Universität Bielefeld.

The three Ds of disease, disability, and discomfort negatively affect hospice patient's energy, intelligence, and organization. Music therapy is a studied, learned, credentialed behavioral intervention. It is specific, prescribed, and delivered therapeutically. At a time when trust and belief are compromised by the three Ds, the utilization of the complementary alternative medical intervention of music therapy, with its positive effect on social relationships, may enhance weakened trust and belief abilities. The research to date regarding music therapy presents positive results from studies and surveys of nurses, music therapists, families, and patients. Recommendations for using music therapy and music therapists will establish the use of this intervention, giving increased numbers to sample sizes for further study.

Nurs Econ. 2009 Jan-Feb;27(1):26-33, 60. Gifford EJ. Pathways Hospice, Oakland, CA, USA.

by Jeff Belyea, PhD

Research at Harvard Business School has concluded "meditation and intuition are the two most valuable executive tools for the 21st century".

Imagine a senior management team or a board of directors who are gathered together to make several important decisions. On the table are crucial matters that could change the course of corporate life, or even make the different between success and failure of the company.

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