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Tobacco Free

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Hospital, nursing home to become tobacco-free

Published: Claiborne Progress
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
 
tbrownClaiborne County Hospital and Nursing Home recently announced plans on the implementation of their new tobacco-free campus policy, effective June 1, 2010. This plan was approved by the Claiborne County Hospital Board at their November 2009 meeting.

Hospital leaders say the new policy reflects the hospital’s mission: “We are eliminating tobacco use on our properties to provide a healthy and safe environment for employees, patients, and visitors and to promote positive health behaviors,” stated Tim Brown, CCH Administrator.

The new policy bans the use of all tobacco products within all designated properties owned, leased or occupied by Claiborne County Hospital and Nursing Home. The only exception will be for residents of the Nursing Home, who will be allowed to smoke in pre-approved areas.

Statistics show that three-fourths of all current tobacco users say they want to quit. Chief of Staff Dr. Robert Wilmoth and the entire Medical Staff of the hospital recognize the challenges of breaking the addiction to nicotine and respect an individual’s quitting process. “We are not telling anyone, ‘you must quit smoking’ ”, said Dr. Wilmoth. “We are saying ‘No smoking at Claiborne County Hospital.’ While you are a patient or visitor at this hospital, we can suggest ways to ease nicotine withdrawal symptoms. If you are ready to quit, we have trained professionals and community partners who can help you.”

Brown says that Claiborne County Hospital and Nursing Home employees will help inform visitors and patients about the new policy.

“This transition will take some time,” he stated, “but it’s central to our continuing efforts to make Claiborne County Hospital and Nursing Home an excellent place to work and receive health care.”

In implementing the tobacco ban, the hospital plans to offer various community activities, including symptoms relief or smoking cessation treatment to interested staff.