PATTERNS OF USE OF A FREE NICOTINE PATCH PROGRAM FOR MEDICAID AND UNINSURED PATIENTS

This study assessed the use and effectiveness of a free nicotine patch program among Medicaid and uninsured smokers. Patterns of patch use, associated behaviors with quit attempt, side effects, and self-reporte d abstinence from smoking for 6 months were evaluated prospectively am ong patients From five urban family practice offices and a nicotine de pendence clinic located in a comprehensive cancer center in Western Ne w York. Results indicated that the majority of participants used the p rogram as intended, and 90% of the participants found the patch useful in their quit attempt. Fourteen percent of participants were abstinen t for 6 months or more. We found no support for inappropriate use of t ransdermal nicotine patches among patients with no health insurance or those on Medicaid. Transdermal nicotine patches are an effective cess ation aid For smokers. Given the toll of the consequences of smoking o n health costs, barriers to access to effective treatment for smoking cessation among individuals covered by Medicaid for health insurance n eed to be eliminated.