Discovery Care Centre has received a Certificate of Healthcare Excellence from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services in recognition of creating a tobacco free medical campus. This award was presented by Paula Wood, Program Director of Tobacco Free Ravalli, to Bill Watkins, owner of Discovery Care Centre, for his leadership in establishing a tobacco free campus that provides a safe and healthy environment for patients, employees, and visitors.
During the award presentation, it was noted that many other medical facilities in Montana have already implemented a tobacco free campus policy and more are planning to do so in 2011. Many hospitals and health organizations across the nation have instituted tobacco free policies to address tobacco use, the number one cause of preventable death in the U.S.
“We are committed to improving the health of our community and creating an environment free of tobacco is an important part of that,” stated Watkins.
In a letter accompanying the award certificate, Dr. Steven Helgerson, the State Medical Officer at the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, wrote, “The toll from tobacco use is great. Every year, over 1,400 Montanans die prematurely of tobacco related diseases and many more suffer illness and disability. You have joined an increasing number of health care facilities in Montana that have taken this important step. Through your leadership on this major public health issue, more Montanans will enjoy improved health and quality of life.”
Since 1998, the Tobacco Free Ravalli Program continues to educate the community regarding tobacco use and support the goal to reduce disease, disability, and death related to tobacco use by:
• Preventing tobacco use among young people;
• Eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke;
• Eliminating disparities related to tobacco use and its effects among certain population groups;
• Promoting quitting among adults and young people.
To contact your local Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program, go to:
www.tobaccofreeravalli.org or call Paula Wood at 961-9014.