Every year, more than 3000 Albertans die from tobacco-related causes. Tobacco use is the leading cause of disease, disability and premature death in the province. Second-hand and third-hand smoke also causes harm for those exposed. Even brief exposure can be harmful.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) is providing a safe and healthy environment for patients, visitors, staff, physicians and volunteers by implementing a Tobacco and Smoke-Free Environments Policy.
Using tobacco and tobacco-like products, including cigarettes, electronic smoking/vaping devises and cannabis, is not allowed on AHS property. AHS property includes grounds, facilities, property and vehicles in an area owned, operated or leased or funded by AHS.
AHS offers a variety of nicotine replacement therapies as comfort measures to patients while they are in the hospital. Patients and residents identified as tobacco users at the time of admission will be informed of the policy and offered support to help manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms for the duration of their stay at an AHS site.
To learn more about AHS provincial programs to help Albertans quit smoking, visit www.albertaquits.ca
The policy supports and complies with Alberta’s Tobacco Reduction Act. Those found in violation of Alberta’s Tobacco Reduction Act may be subject to a fine.
For more information on the implementation of this policy, or if you have any questions or concerns, please email tru@ahs.ca.
