NorthPoint goes Tobacco Free

Nov. 19, 2010 - PRLog -- Hennepin County Commissioner Mark Stenglein was on hand Thursday, November 18th to help celebrate NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center’s first day as a tobacco-free campus. The use of tobacco products while on the NorthPoint campus is prohibited, and  according to Commissioner Stenglein, “By becoming a smoke free campus, NorthPoint is demonstrating its commitment to promoting health and wellness in the community.”

“NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center is committed to saving lives and improving the health care of our community,” added Stella Whitney -West, CEO of NorthPoint, “that’s why we support an environment that encourages positive health care choices for NorthPoint’s patients, visitors and staff.”  

According to the American Cancer Society, tobacco use is responsible for 1 in 5 deaths in the United States, and the decision to restrict tobacco use on campus came about after a series of discussions and feedback from staff and focus groups.  In January 2010, the NorthPoint Board of Directors passed a resolution creating a smoke-free campus for NorthPoint, Inc. Human Services. Commissioner Stenlein brought forward a proposal requesting that the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners create a policy making the entire NorthPoint Campus smoke-free.  

A tobacco free campus not only benefits the health of employees but patients as well.  Non-smokers will no longer have to be exposed to the harmful chemicals of tobacco products.  In addition, becoming a smoke-free campus will have a positive influence on smokers who are trying to quit.  Information and cessation programs are available to patients and staff and patients are encouraged to talk with their provider about their options.

NorthPoint is considered a leader of healthcare and human services in North Minneapolis and Hennepin County.  As a healthcare institution, it is important that we educate and model healthy behaviors for our communities.  The implementation of a smoke-free environment sends a clear message of our commitment to create and sustain healthy communities and provide a platform for other organizations in North Minneapolis and Hennepin County to make the same commitment.

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NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center is a comprehensive health and human services agency located in North Minneapolis. NorthPoint seeks to reduce health disparities, improve health outcomes, and enhance the overall quality of life for all residents of North Minneapolis by providing high quality medical, dental and behavioral health care.