West Coast Primary Health Organisation Service - The PEGS Programme (Preparation, Education, Giving Up and Staying Smokefree)
Contact: Sue-ann Griffiths
Tel: 03 768 6182
Email: sue-ann.griffiths@westcoastpho.org.nz
Address: PO Box 544, Greymouth
Area covered: Karamea to Haast
Criteria: This programme is only available to Maori, Pacific and quentile 5 although these criteria may be adjusted over time.
Description: Support specifically tailored to each patient. Once patients enrol in the programme, they set a ‘quit day’ and work with their doctor or practice nurse to find strategies to deal with their unique needs. The PEGS programme is designed to ensure that people who are trying to quit know what to expect, commit to quitting, and stay motivated. It incorporates motivational interviewing, supportive counselling, and heavily subsidised NRT. Weekly or fortnightly visits to the practice help participants stay on track. The entire programme, which has minimal costs, takes 8-12 weeks, and people may continue to use NRT gum for some time after that.
Community & Public Health - Aukati Kaipaipa
Address: 3 Tarapuhi Street Greymouth
Area covered: West Coast
Contact person: Darcy Vaka
Tel: 03 768 1160 712
Mobile: 027 212 7390
Email: darcy.vaka@cdhb.govt.nz
Description: Free smoking cessation programme for whanau over the age of 18. Personalised and group support by trained Maori staff. Free nicotine patches and gum. Face to face support. Your own Quit Coach for 12 months. Referral to other services.
Quitline
If you want to talk to a Quit Advisor about quitting, call the Quitline on 0800 778 778. Most Advisors are ex-smokers and can offer advice, support, resources and low cost nicotine patches and gum.