Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) says it is strengthening its commitment to improving community health by offering free Nicotine Replacement Therapy to help people quit smoking and vaping.
Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy is available for pregnant women, all hospital patients, and clients of Rekindling the Spirit and Bullinah Aboriginal Medical Services. While smoking rates have declined over recent years, 13 per cent of adults in Northern NSW LHD, or 34,700 people, still smoke.
Acting Director Aboriginal Health, Oral Health and Health Promotion Cameron Johnson said offering free access to Nicotine Replacement Therapy removes one of the biggest barriers to quitting smoking.
‘Quitting smoking is one of the most important things someone can do for their health, and having access to free Nicotine Replacement Therapy can make a real difference,’ Mr Johnson said. ‘In NSW, smoking remains the leading cause of cancer-related preventable disease and death. It is estimated to account for around 6,600 deaths and more than 56,000 hospitalisations in NSW each year.
‘By providing Nicotine Replacement Therapy in hospital, in maternity services, and through our Aboriginal Medical Service partners, we are making it easier for people to start their quit journey with the right support.’
Pregnancy
For women accessing maternity services, Nicotine Replacement Therapy can be offered at any time during maternity care – from when they are first pregnant and up until six weeks after the baby is born.
‘Pregnancy can be a powerful motivator to quit smoking but can also be a stressful time. Offering free Nicotine Replacement Therapy, alongside culturally safe support in an Aboriginal Medical Service, gives people the tools they need to succeed,’ Mr Johnson said.
Hospital patients may request up to three days of free Nicotine Replacement Therapy on discharge, helping them stay smoke-free as they transition home.
‘Being in hospital is often the first smoke‑free period someone has had in years. By offering these patients ongoing Nicotine Replacement Therapy when they are discharged helps people stay on track when they go home,’ Mr Johnson said.
Availability
NNSWLHD’s free Nicotine Replacement Therapy program at Rekindling the Spirit and Bullinah Aboriginal Medical Services has been funded through a Healthy North Coast grant.
The initiative aims to improve health outcomes across the community, focusing on supporting pregnant women and Aboriginal people.
Individuals who can access free Nicotine Replacement Therapy in Northern NSW include:
- pregnant women through maternity services
- inpatients during their hospital stay
- patients on discharge, with up to three days of supply provided
- clients of Rekindling the Spirit and Bullinah Aboriginal Medical Services, ensuring culturally appropriate support.
NNSWLHD encourages anyone who smokes and wants to quit, to speak with their healthcare team who can provide advice, Nicotine Replacement Therapy options and referral to additional quit supports.
Other help
Anyone can also call the NSW Quitline on 13 7848. Quitline is a free, confidential and professional telephone counselling service that provides customised assistance to help you quit. Aboriginal counsellors are available, providing culturally sensitive and customised support.
The iCanQuit website also provides information about smoking and vaping and resources and support to quit.
