WVU Medicine has updated its Tobacco- and Smoke-Free Campus Policy, and the updated policy goes into effect on Tuesday, Oct. 1.
The WVU Medicine policy applies to all WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals facilities, as well as parking lots and garages. One of the primary changes is that employees will no longer be able to use tobacco in their enclosed vehicles when parked in any WVU Medicine parking lot.
The WVU Medicine policy changes coincide with West Virginia University (WVU) tightening its tobacco- and smoke-free policy earlier this year. The WVU policy prohibits smoking in any form, including e-cigarettes and vapor products, on WVU property, including the Milan Puskar Stadium campus. Learn more.
Both the WVU Medicine and WVU policies will be strictly enforced.
Employees are also reminded of Policy V.250S (Dress and Appearance Policy), which states that employees should “avoid strong perfume and cigarette odor since some patients and staff members may be sensitive.”
WVU Medicine has an obligation to provide a healthy, tobacco- and smoke-free environment for patients, visitors, faculty, staff, and students.
While WVU and WVU Medicine Security officers will continue to enforce the policies, employees are reminded that it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure compliance.
Failure to comply with this policy will result in progressive disciplinary action per Policy V.230S (Corrective Action and Discharge Policy).
For those looking to stop using tobacco, WVU Medicine offers a six-week “Breathe Well, Live Well” smoking cessation program. There is no cost to participate. For more information, call 304-598-4000, ext. 72038, or send email to piechowskik@wvumedicine.org.
WVU Medicine employees insured through Highmark can also enroll in a tobacco cessation program offered by West Virginia Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield by calling “Blues on Call” at 1-888-258-3428 (press 5 for wellness).
Employees can receive free smoking cessation products at the WVU Medicine Medical Center Pharmacy and Mountaineer Pharmacy by bringing in a prescription.
Nicotine lozenges, gum, patches, nasal spray, and inhalers are free (no copay) with a prescription.
Non-nicotine treatments, including Chantix and bupropion, are also free (no copay) with a prescription. (Note: Buproprion prescription must have the brand name Zyban written on the prescription; otherwsie, the cost is $10.)