December 20, 2011 - On February 14, 2012 Stanton Territorial Health Authority (STHA) is going 100 per cent tobacco-free. As of that date, no tobacco use of any kind will be permitted anywhere on hospital property.
Stanton Territorial Health Authority is joining a growing number of hospitals and healthcare facilities across Canada that are recognizing their role in promoting healthy behavior, while providing a safe environment for their patients, staff, and visitors. This policy also represents a growing commitment to disease prevention and not just the treatment of disease.
Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death and disease in the Northwest Territories. The NWT has one of the highest rates of tobacco use in the country - at 36 per cent, it is double the national average. As the largest healthcare facility in the Territories, STHA has an opportunity to make a strong statement about the dangers of tobacco use and the health risks associated with even minimal exposure to second-hand smoke. It has a responsibility to encourage a culture of healthy living.
This policy is about creating a culture of healthy living and not about whether people smoke or use tobacco products. STHA does recognize the highly addictive nature of nicotine and has developed supports to make their patients feel as comfortable as possible. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) will be offered to all patients. If this policy encourages patients to tackle their tobacco addiction, resources and support will be available.
“I understand that this will be a challenging change for all of us. However, I think we can agree that this is a move in the right direction. We are doing a great job at treating diseases caused by tobacco, but what are we doing to prevent them? The new policy sends a clear message that tobacco use has no place in an institution dedicated to healing. I ask for your support to make this as easy a transition as possible,” said Kay Lewis CEO Stanton Territorial Hospital.
For more information contact:
Contact: (867) 669-4224