Text Message (SMS) Microlearning for Tobacco Use Disorder: Pre-Post Pilot Study of Clinician Confidence

Background Clinicians are central to treating tobacco use disorder, yet practical training is inconsistent, and confidence varies. Brief, text message–based microlearning may offer a low-burden way to strengthen foundational competencies in busy clinical settings. Objective This paper aims to evaluate whether a short SMS microlearning series improves clinicians’ self-reported confidence in managing tobacco use disorder. Methods We conducted a single-arm, pre-post educational pilot at an academic medical center. A brief formative survey (13 items; 106 respondents) identified local knowledge gaps and informed message topics and sequencing. The 13-day series delivered 1 concise message per day with key teaching points and links to curated resources. The prespecified primary outcome was self-reported confidence in managing tobacco use disorder (1‐100 scale) measured immediately before and after the series. Of the 34 clinicians who signed up, 22 completed the baseline questionnaire and enrolled (attendings: n=4, 18%; trainees: n=18, 82%). Changes in confidence among participants with paired ratings were tested with a paired t test. Engagement with embedded links was recorded. Results All enrolled participants completed the 13-day series; none unsubscribed. Postintervention confidence ratings were provided by 18 participants. Mean confidence increased from 60 (SD 16) at baseline to 85 (SD 10) after the series ( t 17 =−10.71; P <.001). Embedded links were opened in 67% (178/266) of messages. Free-text feedback was predominantly positive and emphasized the convenience, clarity, and point-of-care usefulness of brief messages. Conclusions A brief SMS microlearning series was associated with a substantial improvement in clinicians’ confidence to manage tobacco use disorder, with high completion and evidence of engagement. This low-cost, scalable approach appears practical for busy clinicians. Findings should be interpreted cautiously given the single-arm design, self-selection, and reliance on self-reported confidence rather than objective knowledge or clinical outcomes. Future studies should include a validated knowledge assessment, a randomized comparison, broader sampling, and follow-up to assess durability and impact on care.