UCMC prohibits smoking on property

When the calendar changes from October to November, people making trips to Upstate Carolina Medical Center (UCMC) will notice several differences at the hospital - one being a ban of tobacco products.

Starting Nov. 1, no one will be allowed to use tobacco of any kind anywhere on the premises at any time.

"This is a big deal for the hospital," said UCMC Chief Operating Officer Thom King. "This has been talked about for a long time and now we are making steps in the right direction."

UCMC made the decision to make hospital grounds tobacco-free in March, joining more than 40 other health care facilities statewide.

"We are trying to promote health the best way possible. To us, (banning) tobacco is one way of doing that," King said. "By taking it away, we are creating a road for those wanting to quit smoking or dipping to do so."

UCMC currently allows persons who want to smoke to do so outside in an area near the cafeteria.

Signs will be placed throughout the facility to make everyone aware of the change.

"Notices have been put up and our employees were alerted well in advance about these changes," King said. "Our people knew about this well in advance and have for the most part given themselves an opportunity to adjust."

There will be no extreme measures taken if someone is found using tobacco on hospital grounds though they will be politely asked to extinguish smoking materials.

"We will not fine anyone," King said. "We will just tell them that use of such products is prohibited here."

As a means to help those having trouble getting acclimated to the change, UCMC is providing free nicotine patches and classes to help with smoking cessation efforts.

"I know for some it will be hard to adjust, but if they see one person is able to adjust it will help others," said Steve Wong, Upstate Carolina Medical Center's public relations director. "Other hospitals have seen the transition go well, so I don't see it any different here."