Smoking No Longer Allowed At Philadelphia's 14 Psychiatric Hospitals
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Smoking is now officially banned at Philadelphia's 14 inpatient psychiatric hospitals. The new policy went into effect last Monday.
People admitted, voluntarily or involuntarily, are no longer allowed to smoke in these hospitals. Doctor Rose Julius, of Community Behavioral Health, the non-profit which administers behavioral health in the city, says smoking is not helpful for those suffering from mental health issues.
"It's a myth that's been perpetuated over time, predominantly by the tobacco industry, that it's somewhat of a treatment for the alleviation of symptoms related to things like depression and anxiety, and in fact, it's quite the opposite."
Julius says since Monday, the 14 facilities have reported a smooth transition to a smoke free environment. She says, however, there was two years of preparation for this day. Ten thousand Medicaid patients each year are admitted to Philadelphia psych hospitals.