Marita Hefler1, Robyn Hopkins2, David P Thomas3. 1. Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia, marita.hefler@menzies.edu.au. 2. Northern Territory Department of Correctional Services, Darwin, Australia. 3. Menzies School of Health Research, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia.
Abstract
OBJECTIVES: In 2013, the Northern Territory was the first Australian jurisdiction to introduce a smoke-free policy for all correctional facilities. We report on a process evaluation to identify what worked well, key challenges and unintended consequences. METHODS: We interviewed 87 people, comprising remand, medium-security and low-security prisoners; visiting family members; and prison staff (including prison management and health workers). A realist evaluation approach was used. RESULTS: A long lead-in time, collaborative planning and a comprehensive communication strategy were vital for generating support for the policy and ensuring a smooth transition, with no riots or major incidents. Many prisoners expressed a preference for cessation support options other than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). An unintended consequence was misuse of NRT patches. CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive approach to creating support among staff and prisoners is important for smooth implementation of policies for smoke-free prisons. Planning should include assessment of prisoners' preferred form of cessation support and strategies to minimise NRT diversion.
OBJECTIVES: In 2013, the Northern Territory was the first Australian jurisdiction to introduce a smoke-free policy for all correctional facilities. We report on a process evaluation to identify what worked well, key challenges and unintended consequences. METHODS: We interviewed 87 people, comprising remand, medium-security and low-security prisoners; visiting family members; and prison staff (including prison management and health workers). A realist evaluation approach was used. RESULTS: A long lead-in time, collaborative planning and a comprehensive communication strategy were vital for generating support for the policy and ensuring a smooth transition, with no riots or major incidents. Many prisoners expressed a preference for cessation support options other than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). An unintended consequence was misuse of NRT patches. CONCLUSIONS: A comprehensive approach to creating support among staff and prisoners is important for smooth implementation of policies for smoke-free prisons. Planning should include assessment of prisoners' preferred form of cessation support and strategies to minimise NRT diversion.
Authors: Leah R Jayes; Rachael L Murray; Magdalena Opazo Breton; Christopher Hill; Elena Ratschen; John Britton Journal: BMJ Open Date: 2019-06-14 Impact factor: 2.692
Authors: Xingzhong Jin; Stuart A Kinner; Robyn Hopkins; Emily Stockings; Ryan J Courtney; Anthony Shakeshaft; Dennis Petrie; Timothy Dobbins; Kate Dolan Journal: BMJ Open Date: 2018-10-18 Impact factor: 2.692