WRH Goes Tobacco Free
Quit smoking for those you love
Smoking remains the single leading cause of preventable death in the United States. As the community’s largest healthcare provider, Woodward Regional Hospital (WRH) will lead by example and create a healthier environment for our patients and employees.
Beginning November 19, 2009, WRH went tobacco free. Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, dip and pipe smoking were banned. The ban applies to patients, visitors, hospital staff, medical staff, vendors, contractors and volunteers. Our new policy prohibits use of all tobacco products in every work and public area, including hospital buildings, grounds and parking lots, extending to the inside of all vehicles while parked at our facilities.
COMMITTED TO YOUR HEALTH
When admitted, patients will be advised that WRH is a tobacco-free organization and that leaving the hospital to smoke is prohibited. Smoking cessation should be discussed with your physician at or before admission. WRH’s staff will be monitoring all campus buildings and grounds, and they will approach any employee, visitor, patient, volunteer, vendor, or medical staff if they are using tobacco products. Staff will politely advise violators of the Tobacco Free Policy either verbally or by giving a Tobacco Free Environment reminder card.
We thank you for your cooperation and support as we make this commitment to a healthier tomorrow.
For more information about smoking cessation and classes offered by Woodward Regional Hospital, contact Lori Messenger, director of marketing at (580)254-8665.
Try these quitting tips!
- Check your calendar. If you’ve got a big project at work or special events just ahead, you’re probably going to be stressed—not the best time for quitting.
- Anticipate traps and how to deal with them. Brush your teeth if you start “tasting” a cigarette, or envision a dream vacation with the money saved by quitting—more than $1000 annually on average.
- Avoid situations that trigger cravings. Continuing to party with the gang while you’re trying to quit is bound to derail you. Make other plans temporarily.
- Clean house. Toss out lighters, matches and ashtrays. Deodorize the car. Ask loved ones, friends and co-workers for support—and to not smoke around you anymore.