Berger goes tobacco-free effective July 1

Effective July 1, Berger Health System became a tobacco-free campus for everyone – inside and outside. Berger has had a longstanding policy of no smoking within the hospital or other properties, owned, operated or leased by Berger Health System.

“We are making a stronger commitment to the health and safety of our patients, visitors, employees, medical staff, volunteers and outside contractors,” said Tim Colburn, president and CEO of Berger Health System. “As a health care system, we have an opportunity to lead by example in providing a tobacco-free environment to promote better health and lifestyle choices for our community.”

Berger Health System is joining the rapidly-growing nationwide initiative of maintaining a completely tobacco-free environment. By definition, tobacco-free means all products containing tobacco or nicotine, including cigarettes, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes), cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco or products containing nicotine other than for the purpose of cessation.

The Berger Health System community includes the hospital, offsite medical offices, diagnostic testing facilities, and all related entities, Berger Health Foundation, Pickaway Health Services and Pickaway Professional Services.

Use of all tobacco products is prohibited anywhere on the grounds, parking lots or vehicles on Berger properties.

“We have a responsibility to advocate on the serious health risks created by the usage of tobacco products, including second-hand smoke,” Colburn said. “It just makes sense to take a leadership role and eliminating tobacco from Berger is a positive step in the right direction.”

Berger Health System is supportive of tobacco users who desire to quit using tobacco products. Berger offers individualized tobacco cessation coaching sessions with a certified nurse practitioner, or scheduled group classes throughout the year for employees and their families. These sessions are offered as a benefit to employees and their immediate family members free of charge. For further information, please contact Berger Workplace Health and Wellness (740) 420-8354.

“We appreciate the cooperation of our patients, visitors, staff and community as we establish a truly tobacco-free Berger environment,” Colburn said. “Thank you for respecting our policy when visiting any one of Berger Health System facilities.”