It’s been almost a year since Doylestown Hospital adopted a campus-wide tobacco-free policy, recognizing that tobacco plays no part in a healing environment and does nothing to improve the quality of life in our community. Six other Bucks County hospitals were also part of this “Seven in ’07” initiative throughout the year, and results reported recently by the Bucks County Health Improvement Program (BCHIP) show that the initiative is having a very positive effect. For example, in addition to creating a healthier environment for everyone, the initiative has prompted about 350 staff members of the seven Bucks County hospitals to take advantage of the cessation packages offered to them. This number confirms what statistics indicate — that most smokers really would like to quit but need motivation and support to do it.

If 2008 is your year to kick the habit, Doylestown Hospital can help with the American Lung Association’s “Freedom From Smoking” program, offered to all community residents. Participants will learn about the effect of smoking on their health, how to modify behavior and respond to cravings — all while receiving peer group support in a friendly, supportive environment.

The next series of classes at Doylestown Hospital begins on Wednesday, March 5, 2008. For more information, see page 5 of the Courses, Classes and Events directory found in this issue of Dialogue, or call 215-345-2121.