Franklin Memorial Hospital is one of 18 hospitals statewide to receive

the Gold Star award for the 2013 Maine Tobacco-Free Hospital Network

Gold Star Standards of Excellence Recognition Program. FMH was cited

for meeting all 10 best-practice standards around creating a

tobacco-free environment and supporting tobacco-free lifestyles.

The Gold Star Standards of Excellence is a 10-step written policy that

encourages the adoption of voluntary tobacco-free policies.

Appropriate signage posted at key locations and services for employees

and patients needing assistance for nicotine withdrawal symptoms are

among the 10 requirements.

“Franklin Memorial Hospital is pleased to receive this recognition and

set an example for other organizations in our community,” said Rebecca

Ryder, FMH president/CEO. “Keeping our campus tobacco free not only

impacts the health of employees, patients, and visitors by reducing

exposure to secondhand smoke, but also communicates the critical

message that tobacco use is exceptionally hazardous to health.”

At a ceremony held at the Maine Hospital Association on March 27, 31

hospitals throughout the state of Maine were recognized for their

achievements in advancing their tobacco policy and promoting

tobacco-free living. Based upon the number of 10 best-practice

standards they met, there were 18 recipients at the gold level, 10 at

the silver level, and three at the bronze level.

“Meeting these standards requires hard work and commitment from these

health care organizations, and the Maine Tobacco-Free Hospital Network

is pleased to be able to honor their dedication,” said Sarah Mayberry,

Maine Tobacco Free Hospital Network director.

Franklin Memorial Hospital has been a Gold Star award winner for the

past four years.