Implementation of a tobacco-free workplace program at a local mental health authority

• DOI: 10.1007/s13142-017-0476-2
• Publication Date: 2017-04-10T19:07:21Z
• Authors: Virmarie Correa-F...; William T. Wilson; Deborah A. Shedrick; Bryce Kyburz; Hannah L. Samaha; Timothy Stacey; Teresa Williams; Cho Y. Lam; Lorraine R. Reitzel
• Keywords: Signage; Time line

Tobacco-free workplace policies that incorporate evidence-based practices can increase the reach and effectiveness of tobacco dependence treatment among underserved populations but may be underutilized due to limited knowledge about implementation processes. This paper describes a comprehensive tobacco-free program at behavioral healthcare community center in Texas. The participated project provided guidance resources allowed autonomy implementation. Six employee-based subcommittees guided components including consumer staff surveys, policy development, signage, use assessments, communication, nicotine replacement distribution. Timeline successes, challenges, lessons learned, sustainability initiatives are delineated. Concerns from center's consumers were gradually replaced by strong support for initiative. Program success was enabled consistent leadership, publicity efforts, educational campaigns. surpassed expectations when it adopted hiring policy, which not an initial goal. path provides model other health centers organizations become free.