Primary Health Care Centres To Become Tobacco Free

As part of the National Tobacco Control Framework, the HSE has committed to making all its workplaces and campuses smoke free by 2015.

This process is well underway here in the Mid-West, with the Mid-Western Regional Hospital Group including St. John's Hospital (Dooradoyle, Regional Maternity, Nenagh General, Ennis General and Croom Orthopaedic Hospital) now tobacco free since the 31st May 2012.

The next step is the introduction of tobacco free primary care health centres on a phased basis. On Wednesday 13th February 2013, Ash Wednesday, a number of primary care health centres in Limerick City and County will become tobacco free. Smoking will not be permitted anywhere on the grounds of the following health centres, Limerick County Health Centres: Ballylanders, Bruff, Bruree, Galbally, Hospital, Kilmallock and Kilfinane. Limerick City Health Centres: Ballynanty, Moyross, Kings Island and Westbury.

From this date it will no longer be possible to smoke anywhere on the grounds, for example entrances, doorways, walkways, car parks, cars, bicycle shelters etc. The policy will apply to all staff, clients, contractors and anyone who enters the grounds of the health centre and it will ensure a healthier, safer and cleaner environment for all.

Ms. Bedelia Collins, Health Promotion Officer, HSE said: "Introducing the Smoke Free Campus policy provides an environment that promotes health and supports those who want to stop smoking. A survey conducted prior to implementing the policy indicated that, the majority of staff are in favour of a, Smoke Free Campus.

"The facts are undisputable when it comes to the health gains; giving up smoking greatly improves the chances of patient’s recovery, which is the aim of being in hospital. Research shows that non smokers or those who quit smoking prior to surgery have a much better recovery."

(CD/GK)