Comment #1

larry3100 — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 02:10:23 GMT

It's about time,all hospitals should do the same.Smokers,get out of my face!.

Original Blog Entry: Smokers Need Not Apply

truesee — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 10:26:01 GMT

1:26 PM Apr 22, 2011

Smokers Need Not Apply

Sparrow Hospital announced a new policy Friday. It will no longer hire anyone who uses tobacco. Current smokers won't be fired -- but will have to keep paying more for their health insurance.

Sherene Tagharobi

Wilx News 10

There are almost as many no smoking signs at Sparrow Hospital as there are cigarette butts along its campus. The hospital banned smoking on site years ago, and whether or not people listened, it's taking the next step in its anti-tobacco policy.

Anybody who tests positive for tobacco or nicotine products will not be able to gain employment at Sparrow, said John Berg, a Sparrow marketing executive.

Lucky for current employees who smoke, that only goes for new hires starting May 1, 2011. Still, those we talked to--smokers or not--didn't like it.

See that's crazy to me, your freedom of choice...that's why I live in America, said Jacob McPhail, a non-smoking employee.

I don't think that's fair. I think if they don't want them smoking on campus that's fine but I think what you do on your own time should be up to you, said employee Michael VanDussen, who does smoke.

The sparrow campus has been smoke free since 2007 and the signs are everywhere to prove it. But there's also proof the policy isn't always enforced. We found a pile of cigarette butts swept up just feet from a no-smoking sign outside the building, not to mention, people coming and going for smoke breaks there too.

LINK TO VIDEO:

www.woodtv.com/dpp/health/Smokers-wont-be-hired-at-Sparrow-Hospital

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