The Department of Health and Families (DHF) announced today that its recently completed Smoke Free Policy will be implemented organisation-wide from Wednesday 1 July 2009.
The policy will result in a smoking prohibition at all departmental services, including hospital campuses, community and remote health centres, NT Families and Children offices, and in departmental vehicles, with minor exceptions for patients at designated outdoor areas on hospital grounds.
The policy informs clinicians, managers and other staff on ways of supporting cessation and compliance amongst patients, clients and those staff who still smoke.
Dr David Ashbridge, DHF's Chief Executive, described the Policy as a major milestone for health care in the Northern Territory.
"Smoking is acknowledged to be the single most preventable cause of serious illness and death. It is linked with ten per cent of Australia's total burden of disease.
"These smoking restrictions are part of a comprehensive approach to caring for patients and clients who are addicted to tobacco. It is important that hospital patients do not smoke at a time of receiving medical treatment, particularly surgery. It is also important that our staff provide good role modelling by not smoking on DHF premises," Dr Ashbridge said.
"People smoke for the nicotine but become seriously ill from the chemical cocktail in cigarette smoke. Nicotine replacement therapy is one way that our patients and staff can be assisted to stop smoking. We will work with smokers to help them quit for good, if they wish."
To advise patients and visitors of the new policy, a range of informational material is being produced, including signage for the sites, leaflets, public advertising and a media campaign. Extensive clinical support material will be made available at sites and online.
Introduction of the Smoke Free Policy follows extensive research and careful planning led by DHF's Division of Health Protection, and ongoing consultation with Unions.
The Smoke Free Policy and frequently asked questions can be viewed at: www.health.nt.gov.au/Alcohol_and_Other_Drugs/Tobacco/DHF_Smoke_Free_Policy/
Media contacts: Darrel Trueman, 0401 116 203; Cameron Jackson, 0401 116 144
Release date: 19 March 2009
