Assessing access and utilization of Nicotine Replacement Therapy provided by The Maine Tobacco HelpLine among smokers

OBJECTIVE: In 2002, Maine's Tobacco HelpLine began offering free nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), including patch and/or gum, to uninsured adult smokers without NRT benefits. In 2005, a study assessed how smokers were accessing and using this free NRT to help quit. METHODS: Telephone surveys were conducted in June-July 2005 among 541 eligible HelpLine callers authorized for NRT between February-March 2005, with 393 complete interviews (73% response rate). Descriptive analyses and Chi-Square tests were conducted, including tests for significant differences by demographics and NRT utilization. RESULTS: Half of study respondents were aware of free NRT before calling the HelpLine and 95% reported NRT at least somewhat influenced their decision to call. Most respondents were very satisfied (88%) and reported this process as ‘very helpful' in their quit attempt (66%). Almost all respondents picked up NRT (99%), had no problems obtaining it (91%), and quit for at least 24 hours since calling the HelpLine (92%). Among those quitting for at least 24 hours, 95% used NRT; 28% reported interrupted NRT use and almost 40% reported side effects, most commonly skin reactions or abnormal dreams. Chi-square tests reported significant side effect differences by age, with more side effects among younger respondents. When surveyed, 50% reported abstinence from smoking, which significantly differed by NRT duration; smoking during NRT use; and timing of NRT use. CONCLUSIONS: Maine's NRT service model effectively encouraged smokers to contact the HelpLine and use NRT, demonstrating valuable opportunity for quitlines to provide NRT access and increase demand among motivated smokers.