Delivery of tobacco control programs by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations in New South Wales, Australia: A cross‐sectional survey

Abstract

Issue AddressedTo describe the characteristics of tobacco control programs (TCPs) delivered by Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services (ACCHSs) in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.MethodsA key informant from each ACCHS in NSW completed a 30‐item online survey. For each TCP, ACCHSs were asked to provide: the target population group, program aims and activities, funding source, and whether the program had been monitored or evaluated and reflected principles of community control and engagement.ResultsTwenty‐five of 38 eligible ACCHSs completed the survey (66% response rate). Overall, 64% of services reported currently delivering at least one TCP, almost all of which aimed to promote quitting (95%). Programs involved brief intervention for tobacco cessation (71%), referral to quit services (67%), or use of printed resources (67%). Funding sources included Local Health Districts (52% of programs), the Commonwealth Government (48%) and NSW Ministry of Health (43%). Most programs were aimed at all Aboriginal people who smoke (76%); 19% targeted women or families during pregnancy/birth. Many TCPs used culturally tailored resources (86%) and employed Aboriginal staff (86%), and 48% had been evaluated.ConclusionsA third of participating ACCHS did not have a specific TCP to address smoking among Aboriginal people, and delivery of programs was characterised by an uncoordinated approach across the state. Aboriginal staff and culturally tailored messages were a focus of existing TCP programs.So What?Findings highlight the need for more investment in TCPs for Aboriginal people to ensure all ACCHSs can deliver evidence‐based programs.