PROVIDENCE WENT TOBACCO FREE
THROUGHOUT OREGON ON NOV. 20

Nov. 20, 2008

HOOD RIVER, Ore. - Providence Hood River along with most of Providence Health & Services - Oregon Region became 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 Hood River is committed to promoting active, healthy lifestyles for our patients and employees,” said Ty Erickson, chief executive for Providence Gorge Service Area. “Going tobacco free is the right thing to do.”

Providence Hood River’s new policy affects all Providence-owned and leased buildings including hospitals, clinics, and administration and service buildings.

Providence will close all outside smoking areas and remove shelters at all of its campuses in Oregon by Nov. 20. 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,” Erickson 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.”

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Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is part of Providence Health & Services, the state’s leading health system and largest private employer. Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital is a full-service, critical-access hospital with a 24-hour Emergency Department. Providence offers a wide range of health care services in the communities of the Columbia River Gorge through its clinics, care centers and senior living facilities.