Türkiye'de sigara bırakma polikliniklerinin erişilebilirliği: Istanbul’da sigara içen bir popülasyon arasında tanımlayıcı bir çalışma

Objective: In 2011, Turkey started the nationwide “Smoking Cessation Treatment Support Program” via Smoking Clinics (SCC). This study examined accessibility of these clinics using Levesque’s framework access to healthcare services. From (potential) users’ perspectives, it was aimed find challenges they face in accessing clinics, and proposed solutions for better implementation.Methods: conducted among 304 smokers who visited four Family Health Centers a geographically defined area Istanbul, Turkey, 2018. Result: this study, found that 74% wished quit smoking. Within them, 21% didn’t know SCCs, half them what services were provided there. Among those knew 30% used The majority (75.7%) SCC users medications expensive; 41% use 64% re-visit follow-ups. Eventually, 4.3% smoking through SCCs. Utilization significantly higher women (35%) than men (18.6%) (p=0.024). T; there no other differences terms age, marital status, income, education level.Conclusion: cessation programs countries can be implemented more efficiently if sufficient number are opened accessible at local level; health professionals trained practice; made visible; available constantly; closer monitoring service is ensured.