Providence Goes Tobacco Free Throughout Oregon on Nov. 20

Nov 18, 2008

PORTLAND, Ore. – Most of Providence Health & Services – Oregon Region will become tobacco free Nov. 20 to ensure the health and safety of patients, visitors and employees.

The launch of Providence’s new tobacco–free policy coincides with the American Cancer Society’s Great American Smokeout, which encourages people to smoke less or quit for the day on the third Thursday of November. Providence health facilities in Oregon join more than 1,200 hospitals and clinics nationwide that have gone tobacco free since 1985.

“As a leading health care provider, Providence Health & Services is committed to promoting active, healthy lifestyles for our patients and employees,” said Russ Danielson, chief executive for Providence Health & Services – Oregon. “Going tobacco free is the right thing to do.”

Providence’s new policy affects 75 properties statewide, including hospitals, clinics, and administration and service buildings. This includes all Providence–owned and leased buildings at Providence Portland, Providence St. Vincent and Providence Newberg medical centers, and Providence Hood River Memorial, Providence Seaside and Providence Milwaukie hospitals.

The policy goes into effect at Providence Benedictine Community Care at Mt. Angel in January, and at Providence Medford Medical Center in July 2009.

Providence will close all outside smoking areas and remove shelters at all of its campuses in Oregon by Nov. 20. Many will be turned into bicycle parking areas.

To make patients, visitors and employees more comfortable as the policy is enforced, Providence is providing “care packs” containing nicotine lozenges and information on tobacco cessation resources in the community and at Providence through the end of January.

“While the dangers of tobacco use have been clearly demonstrated, Providence also recognizes that tobacco is highly addictive and difficult for some people to quit using,” Danielson said. “Providing compassionate service is part of our Mission, so implementation of our new policy will include providing support for people who either want to quit or may not necessarily be ready to do so.”