HMH implements tobacco-free campus policy effective July 1.
In an effort to provide a safe, healthy environment for everyone who uses Harrison Memorial Hospital services, July 1, 2008 is an important day. That’s the day a campus-wide, tobacco-free policy will be implemented, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes and smokeless tobacco products. Hospital employees will be required to follow this policy beginning May 1, 2008, two months earlier than the full implementation.
“As a healthcare provider to this region, it only makes sense to take this step in the right directions, discourage tobacco use and improve the lives of our patients, their families and our own employees. Studies show that second-hand smoke can contribute to lung cancer as well, so a healthy environment at HMH is a top priority for us,” says Darwin Root, Hospital CEO.
Harrison Memorial Hospital joins the majority of hospitals nationwide in an effort to eliminate tobacco use on campus. Root credits Hospital board members and medical staff for their assistance in implementing the new plan.
Not only will employees be prohibited from tobacco use on campus, but the policy states that they are expected to report to work free of the smell of tobacco. The policy reads as follows:
Tobacco use will be prohibited in any HMH buildings, on HMH grounds, and in any HMH property, including vehicles owned by Harrison Memorial Hospital. HMH will be tobacco free by July 1, 2008 for all patients and visitors.
Currently, cigarettes and other tobacco products may only be used outside of the hospital where receptacles are provided. That will change July 1. At that time, the sale, distribution and use of tobacco and tobacco-related supplies will be prohibited anywhere on the HMH campus.
“We’re committed to making HMH smoke- and tobacco-free, so our policy was written with consquences for violators. The idea isn’t to be ‘big brother’, but to lead the way toward a healthier lifestyle,” says Root.
Family members and visitors who violate the new policy will be asked to immediately cease use, and their tobacco products will be confiscated and returned to them upon discharge.
“Our physicians and staff are well aware of how difficult it is to kick the habit. That’s why we’re not just enforcing the policy, but rather offering alternative support. Our physicians will be notified if a patient is discovered smoking, and they will order nicotine-replacement products, when appropriate. We continue to offer smoking cessation classes free to the public,” says Root.
Get information about FREE smoking cessation classes at HMH.
