Information for Visitors - Smoking Policy - Montefiore Medical Center

As the largest healthcare provider and employer in the Bronx, Montefiore Medical Center has demonstrated its commitment to a healthier worksite and community by declaring a new smoke-free campus policy.

The policy applies to all Montefiore associates, patients and visitors, and extends no-smoking zones beyond established 25-foot perimeters to include all Montefiore locations in the Bronx and Westchester, including its main hospital campuses, public areas such as parking garages, common areas in residential buildings and community sites.

The comprehensive plan was put into place on March 23, 2011, as another initiative to increase health and wellness of the entire Montefiore community, including the nearly 18,000 employees working at more than 100 sites.

Smoking is associated with increased risk of death from lung cancer and heart disease. It is not only harmful to the smoker, but to anyone who is exposed to secondhand smoke. Limiting exposure to tobacco products and byproducts is an important step Montefiore has taken toward protecting the health of adults and children.

Montefiore has a long tradition working to end smoking in its community. The medical center participates in the annual Kick Butts Day, a national day of activism sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco-free Kids. Montefiore also sponsors smoking cessation programs to help its employees, patients and community members kick the habit.

The latest smoke-free policy is among other initiatives aimed at benefiting the community, including nutrition and fitness programs, many of which are offered in alignment with the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.