College health providers' knowledge and confidence in addressing students' vaping: Evidence from a pilot study in New York State

This study examines the knowledge and confidence of college healthcare providers in discussing vaping with their college student populations. A mixed-methods descriptive study using a sequential-explanatory approach was employed, consisting of a cross-sectional, online survey followed by qualitative interviews. Survey data was collected from 50 college health providers located at 26 colleges in the SUNY system. Targeted semi-structured interviews (N = 11) were conducted with survey participants. Despite high reported levels of knowledge and confidence, few providers had participated in vaping-related educational activities. Misinformation about e-cigarettes was evident, and providers often lacked knowledge of the specific product (nicotine/cannabis) students typically vaped. Findings indicate a potential disconnect between providers' perceived and actual knowledge and highlight opportunities to improve their ability to address vaping comprehensively.

Jessica A Kulak, Hannah E Voit, Cierra A Balfour, Gregory G Homish