Beginning today, February 1, 2012, Rambam Medical Center in Haifa becomes the first and only hospital in the State of Israel prohibiting the sale of tobacco products anywhere in the hospital complex. All cigarette vending machines have been removed from the campus of the medical center and kiosks operating in the complex have been informed their contracts will now contain a paragraph banning the sale of cigarettes.

Officials report that there was no alternative for an institution that continues working in earnest to educate the public, reaching the conclusion the medical center must begin by setting an example.

While the hospital still offers a number of smoking zones for those who are addicted, there are new signs which detail the harm and dangers associated with smoking.

The hospital also works with Haifa City Hall and inspectors monitor the complex and fines are issued to those who ignore no smoking signs, including patients, visitors and staff. A staff member apprehended smoking in a prohibited area is fined 1,000 NIS.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)