In the Brussels-Capital Region, Vivalis leads the smoking cessation policy, in partnership with Iriscare for reimbursement management. Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31st, these two organizations emphasize the harmful effects of smoking, a major cause of serious diseases, and reaffirm their commitment to helping Brussels residents quit smoking and vaping.
On May 26th, as part of Brussels' no-tobacco week, Vivalis launched an awareness campaign with FARES and Respiratoire Gezondheid. The goal is to inform citizens about the importance of support from a smoking cessation specialist, which significantly increases success rates for quitting smoking and vaping. These trained professionals offer personalized follow-up, tailored to individual needs.
Iriscare provides direct financial support by funding mutual insurance providers for partial reimbursement of smoking cessation consultations. To benefit, patients must be affiliated with a Brussels mutual insurance and consult an approved healthcare provider. Consultations outside Brussels are also covered if the Brussels billing procedure is followed. Patients can receive reimbursement for up to eight consultations every two years, with a fee of €30 for the first session and €20 for the subsequent seven. This right is extended for each pregnancy for expectant mothers.
In 2025, only 2,412 consultations were reimbursed, totaling €52,299. It is estimated that one in five adults still smokes, while the use of e-cigarettes is rapidly increasing among young people, reaching nearly a quarter. Despite the reimbursement, the program remains underutilized. Many are unaware of this support or mistakenly believe it is costly. Vivalis and Iriscare therefore encourage all Brussels residents to take the step towards a smoke-free life.
