SWATANTRA
Vol. 24 No. 2 (2026)

Implementation Gaps in Smoke-Free Area Policy in Health Service Facilities: A Qualitative Study from South Tangerang City, Indonesia

Rafi Ismail (Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta)
Muhammad Khoirul Anwar (Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2026

Abstract

Smoke-free policies are essential for protecting non-smokers from second-hand tobacco smoke, especially in health service facilities. Despite South Tangerang City Regional Regulation Number 4 of 2016, compliance in health facilities remains uneven. This study analysed the implementation of the smoke-free area policy at Cirendeu Public Health Centre, Pisangan Public Health Centre, and Sari Asih Ciputat Hospital. A descriptive qualitative design combined interviews, observation, and document review involving 15 informants, including occupational health and safety coordinators, staff members, smoke-free task-force officers, and visitors. Data were interpreted using Edward III’s policy implementation framework, covering communication, resources, disposition, and bureaucratic structure. The findings showed that the facilities had established core administrative components, including internal staff socialisation, designated task-force personnel, no-smoking signs, and operational references to local regulations. However, implementation gaps remained. Communication with visitors and surrounding communities was not systematic; responsibilities and procedures for sanctions and enforcement were unclear; and community participation was largely limited to passive reporting. Implementers expressed commitment to the policy, while the absence of formal incentives may constrain sustained motivation and proactive enforcement, although this relationship requires further empirical examination. Overall, the policy was institutionally established but incompletely operationalised in public communication, enforcement authority, monitoring, and participation. Strengthening visitor-focused communication, clarifying sanctioning authority, conducting routine monitoring, supporting implementers, and creating participatory reporting mechanisms may improve compliance and protect patients, staff, and visitors from second-hand smoke exposure.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

SWATANTRA

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

SWATANTRA: is a peer-reviewed journal published by undergraduate as well as magister program of Administration Studies Department of Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Universitas Muhammadiyah Jakarta. This national journal aims to disseminate Administration science research in various ...