AF updates tobacco policy Published April 10, 2015 By Airman 1st Class Nicolo J. Daniello 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- The Air Force released an updated Tobacco policy, AFI 40-102, March 4 that included changes to designated smoking areas and allows individuals to receive tobacco cessation products with minimal barriers. The changes to the designated smoking areas bars tobacco use on recreational facilities to include: athletic fields, running tracks, basketball courts, marinas, beaches, parks and walkways. Members are reminded that smoking on installations is only allowed in designated tobacco areas, which must be 50 feet away from building entrances, pedestrian walkways, parking lots, dining areas, outdoor patios and nondesignated smoking area picnic tables. Included in the updated policy is the prohibited tobacco use in privately owned vehicles while children 14-years-old or under are present in the vehicle. "We're not out to get tobacco users," said Will Saultes, 92nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron health promotion program coordinator. "We're promoting a culture of change and it's about you making the right decision." According to Saultes, the updated tobacco policy states that barriers inhibit those who seek assistance to quit using tobacco. They should have the means to do so instantly and have access to the resources needed to help, including tobacco cessation services. There are two avenues patients can take when looking for tobacco cessation services. They can either be referred by their primary care manager or they can self-refer to a tobacco cessation program. "They can report directly to the pharmacy to speak with a clinical pharmacist," said Maj. Andrea Gardner, 92nd Medical Support Squadron pharmacy flight commander. "Then they'll be evaluated for proper treatment." The treatment is tailored to the patient and takes into account the amount of tobacco and duration of use to design an appropriate program for the individual, Gardner said. Therapy may include nicotine replacement products (patches or gum), Chantix, Zyban or a combination of these products. According to Gardner, between January and March 2015, 100 percent of active duty members at Fairchild who sought treatment successfully quit using tobacco. "We want to assist people with quitting," Gardner said. "Tobacco cessation aids are also available through 'Express Scripts' for home delivery." For more information on tobacco cessation services, visit the American Lung Association website at http://www.lung.org/, the http://www.ucanquit2.org website, smart phone app called 'cessation nation,' call the 92nd Medical Group pharmacy at (509) 247-5567 or the Health Promotions Office at (509) 247-5590.
