“A tobacco free campus reflects our desire to provide a healthier environment for our patients, employees, physicians and visitors,” said PMH Chief Executive Officer Jamie Guin.

“Tobacco poses a significant health risk to those who use it and to those exposed to second hand smoke. As a healthcare organization it doesn’t make sense for us to allow smoking on our campuses. This policy is consistent with our mission and values,” Guin concluded.

Smoking inside the hospital was banned many years ago. This new policy extends tobacco restriction to the entire grounds and campuses to further advance health and safety. This means that tobacco will not be permitted at the hospital, including parking areas; at any off-site facility, including parking areas; on any property owned or leased by the hospital; or in any personal or private vehicle if the vehicle is on PMH owned or leased property.

Signs are posted around the hospital and grounds to help citizens remember not to use tobacco products and cards have been prepared to assist employees who see someone who is not in compliance with the policy. Brochures advising patients of the hospital’s tobacco-free status will be distributed at admission.

Patients and visitors accustomed to using tobacco products may be offered Quit-Kits containing mints, nicotine replacement gum, nicotine replacement lozenges and a tobacco-cessation card.

Preparations to become tobacco-free have been taking place at Person Memorial Hospital for about a year, and smoking cessation classes have been offered to employees.