Learn about our tobacco reduction program
Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable death and illness, with 50% of regular users dying of tobacco-related diseases. The Tobacco Reduction Program works with Interior Health staff, local government, Aboriginal communities, non-governmental organizations, school districts, and others to:
prevent young people from starting to smoke;
support tobacco users to quit; and
reduce residents’ exposure to second-hand smoke.
Help to quit
Quitnow Services provides free individualized support 24-7 for individuals wanting support to quit. Visit their website or phone 1-877-455-2233![]( "Call: 1-877-455-2233")
or text Quitnow to 654321.
The B.C. Smoking Cessation Program is a program that helps people stop using tobacco by assisting them with the cost of quit-smoking aids. You may want to talk to your pharmacist or doctor to decide if quit-smoking medications are right for you. The program offers two types of aids:
1. Prescription DrugsPrescription Drugs - PharmaCare will cover 12 weeks of one of the following:
Note: These require a prescription. The amount of coverage is based on your income level and Pharmacare Plan.
2. Nicotine Replacement Therapy Nicotine Replacement Therapy - 12 weeks FREE Nicorette® gum, Nicoderm® patch, Nicorette® lozenges or Nicorette® inhaler . You may choose only one of the above. As of January 1, 2016, you can now sign up for the B.C. Smoking Cessation Program at your local community pharmacy. You no longer need to call HealthLink BC for this service.
The Integrated Tobacco Program can be reached at tobacco@interiorhealth.ca or 1-855-744-6328 prompt 5.