Declaring Our Independence from Tobacco

As of July 4, 2008, Lahey Clinic will no longer allow smoking or other forms of tobacco use anywhere on Lahey Clinic property. This new policy supports our mission to protect the health of all who come to the Clinic.

Although Lahey firmly believes that giving up smoking and other tobacco products is in the best interest of all, we respect that this is a personal decision and that some individuals will choose to continue to use tobacco. Our intent is to support tobacco users in our community-patients, visitors and colleagues-in their attempts to quit or in finding alternate ways of coping while they are on Lahey Clinic property.

Please read the Frequently Asked Questions below to learn more about our Tobacco-Free Environment policy and how Lahey is committed to supporting you and your loved ones as we undergo this transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Lahey Clinic tobacco free?

As members of the health care community, we witness the devastating toll that tobacco takes on the lives of our patients, family and friends. Smoking and breathing in second-hand smoke are the leading causes of many serious illnesses-heart disease, emphysema and cancer in particular. This new policy is not a campaign against tobacco users but an effort to create a healthier community and address a serious public health issue.

Are other hospitals in the area also tobacco free?

Yes. According to the Massachusetts Hospital Association, approximately 35 to 40 percent of Massachusetts hospitals are now tobacco free. Another 15 percent or so are working toward becoming tobacco free this year.

Can I smoke in my car?

No. The use of tobacco is also prohibited in personal vehicles on Lahey Clinic property.

I am a patient at Lahey Lexington. Can I smoke on Lexington's campus?

No. The Tobacco-Free Environment policy applies to all Lahey Clinic owned and leased buildings and properties and grounds (including building entryways, walkways, parking garages and parking lots).

Smoking is a personal, legal right. Are you telling me I can't smoke?

Smoking and using tobacco is a personal right. We are not telling anyone that they have to quit. We are, however, banning the use of tobacco products on Lahey Clinic property.

I understand why people are prohibited from smoking inside the Clinic…but why are you banning smoking outside the hospital?

Second-hand smoke is a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) according to the U.S. Environmental Agency, the National Toxicology Program, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The Surgeon General has concluded that there is no risk-free level of exposure to second-hand smoke; even small amounts can be harmful to an individual's health. A completely smoke-free environment is the only way to fully protect nonsmokers from the dangers of second-hand smoke.

In addition, the smell of smoke is a trigger for people trying to quit smoking or remain tobacco free. It is our responsibility to support our colleagues, patients and visitors who are going through the difficult process of trying to quit using tobacco.

I'm a smoker and I will be having surgery and staying at the hospital for several days. What will I do if I can't smoke?

Upon hospital admission, all patients will be assessed to determine if they use tobacco products. If you do, an inpatient tool kit including information on smoking cessation programs at Lahey and elsewhere, quit tips, gum and other resources will be made available to you. Your caregivers as well as Lahey's smoking cessation coordinator will be notified so any other appropriate consults, resources and support can be provided. We understand that being ill or having to undergo surgery is already an anxiety-provoking situation. We will do all we can to help you get through this time without the use of tobacco products.

A loved one of mine is a patient at Lahey and this is a very stressful time for me. How am I supposed to stop smoking at a time like this?

We are very sorry about your loved one and want to help. Please be aware that we are not telling you to stop smoking, but we are asking that you refrain from smoking or using tobacco products on Lahey Clinic property. You may leave Lahey's campus if you wish to smoke. If you don't want to leave, nicotine gum is available for a discount at the Lahey pharmacy.

What about chewing tobacco…is that ok?

No. Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, and pipe smoking are all tobacco products.

Will you be offering something to help curb my nicotine cravings while I am at the Clinic?

Yes. Visitors and outpatients can purchase discounted nicotine gum at the Lahey pharmacy. You can also talk directly to your Lahey health care provider. All hospitalized patients are encouraged to discuss any initial concerns with their physician or other health care provider. If you are interested in setting up a smoking cessation consult, please call 781 744-1823.

I think this may be a good opportunity to try to quit smoking. Can Lahey help?

Yes. Lahey offers the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking ® program. Please call the Lahey Quit Line at 781-744-QUIT (7848) for more information on this program. Information is also available at www.lahey.org/smokingcessation. If you want to set up an appointment for a personalized smoking cessation consult at Lahey, please call 781-744-1823.