Western State Hospital

DMHMRSAS facilities are in the process of becoming tobacco free. James Evans, MD, Assistant Commissioner Health and Quality Care, has lead the discussion on this issue. Presentations have been made to Mental Health Planning Council and the Human Rights Committee and other groups that included various interested parties, including consumers and advocates. After these presentations and meetings have occurred, the Department has determined that establishing a plan to make DMHMRSAS campuses smoke and tobacco free is indicated.

Beginning October 10, 2007, all DMHMRSAS facilities will no longer permit the use or possession of tobacco products on facility grounds, for both patients and staff. This policy change pertains to all state owned and operated buildings in every area of the Commonwealth. This includes Western State Hospital.

In February 2007, a Tobacco Free Task Force was formed at Western State Hospital. This Task Force is in the process of developing policy and a carefully planned transition to a tobacco free environment for both patients and staff. Our goal is to complete this transition in a way that supports, encourages, and rewards individuals in their progress towards tobacco cessation.