Balancing quality and cost for Adult Tobacco Telephone Surveys.

OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate the ability to cost-effectively coordinate Adult Tobacco Survey stakeholder interests while reducing the risk of potential bias. METHODS: Key smoking indicators were compared across 2 surveys and analyzed based on modifications to calling protocols. RESULTS: Mixed results were found when comparing smoking rates across 2 surveys, by early, mid, and late respondents, and by the number of rufusals. Significant cost sayings can be obtained by reducing the number of telephone call attempts. CONCLUSIONS: Few significant differences may encourage reductions in protocol, but this must be weighed against the possibility of cost-saving measures resulting in biased estimates.