The Maine Tobacco Free Network has recognized Cary Medical Center at the gold level in the 2014 Maine Tobacco Free Hospital Network Gold Star Standards of Excellence recognition program.
The program provides an opportunity every year for hospitals to be recognized for the work they have done to create a tobacco-free environment and to support tobacco-free lifestyles. Cary will be one of 18 healthcare organizations receiving the gold level recognition. Some 31 hospitals from across the state as well as seven individual gold stars champions will be honored on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at the Maine Hospital Association Office in Augusta.
Kris Doody, RN, CEO of Cary Medical Center said the award reflects Cary’s vision to support a tobacco-free environment.
“We have all known for years that smoking is a major public health issue,” said Doody. “Our vision is to create a healthier community. Working to reduce smoking and to help young people never start is certainly consistent with this vision. The Maine Tobacco Free Network establishes some challenging expectations for this gold level recognition and we appreciate the fact that they recognize hospitals as we work to reduce tobacco use in our communities.”