Group Health Is 100 Percent Tobacco- and Smoke-FreeIn keeping with our commitment to promote preventive care and healthy lifestyles for our members, staff, and communities, all Group Health campuses — including 26 medical centers and 1 hospital — are 100 percent tobacco- and smoke-free. The policy went into effect on Jan. 1, 2007. The policy goes beyond Washington state's smoking ban, which prohibits smoking inside public buildings and within 25 feet of the buildings' doors, air vents, and windows that open. The policy will extend to include entire campuses. "Our goal is to support good health, and to help our members and staff live the healthiest lives possible," says James Hereford, executive vice president for Strategic Services and Quality. Group Health members who want to quit smoking or using other kinds of tobacco have access to the Free & Clear® Quit For Life® Program. For more information, see Free & Clear Quit For Life Program. Family and friends who aren't Group Health members can get more information about quitting from the Washington State Department of Health Tobacco Quit Line. |
