A tobacco-free workplace helps create a safe and healthy environment for staff, patients and visitors. As part of DCCCA’s commitment to provide excellent health care for our community, DCCCA will implement a tobacco-free policy for patients, visitors, volunteers, contractors and vendors, effective July 1, 2021. This includes all forms of tobacco use on DCCCA property, including all DCCCA parking areas.

With the support of WorkWell KS, a statewide worksite wellness initiative funded by the Kansas Health Foundation, employers across Kansas are striving to improve employee health and company performance, and DCCCA is excited to be one of those worksites.

“This is a monumental step forward for our agency,” DCCCA CEO Lori Alvarado said. “I am proud that DCCCA is creating a healthier environment for all and establishing a tobacco-free initiative throughout our locations.”

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Smoking also is a leading cause of employee lost productivity. Using tobacco products on a hospital campus poses a significant health risk to our employees, patients and visitors.

DCCCA does not require that tobacco users quit, but this initiative supports its ongoing commitment to health care quality and safety. Cessation support will be available for those who wish to take the first step toward being tobacco-free.