Implementing a Quit Smoking Program in Your Workplace

Do you want to try to bring your Texas group health insurance rates down? You may want to start by encouraging your workers to live healthier lifestyles, and one way may be to implement a quit smoking program. You have a right, as an employer, to operate a non-smoking facility, but you have no control over what your employees do on their own time. You can, however, try to encourage and motivate them to make healthier life choices.

The American Lung Association offers a Freedom from Smoking program which features online support, telephone counseling and in-person clinics. According to the association, the Freedom from Smoking program “teaches proven techniques and offers personal support to help your employees quit for good.”

The Freedom from Smoking online program features modules with lessons that you access and work through via a protected website. Each lesson includes valuable information and an assignment, all designed to prepare you for “Quit Day.” The Freedom from Smoking helpline may be reached by calling 1-800-LUNGUSA. The call center is staffed by registered nurses and respiratory therapists.

You may not be able to require your employees to take part in a stop smoking program, but it may be a good idea to offer one for those employees who may choose to participate. Some employees may desire to live a smoke-free life, but may need help and support to reach that life goal. In general, a healthier workforce may mean fewer claims filed on your Texas group health insurance plan, and this may ultimately keep your premiums down.