Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone today invited residents who use tobacco and are seeking assistance in breaking their addiction to sign up for free smoking cessation classes. The Learn to Be…Tobacco Free program offers assistance with planning, support, counseling and provides over-the counter medications to participants who are medically eligible.
“Quitting smoking is never easy but with the right support network it can literally save one’s life,” said Suffolk County Executive Bellone. “Since the inception of this program, thousands of smokers have participated in the program and increased their chances of succeeding in this task. I encourage anyone who is struggling to quit to sign up for these informative classes and get healthier.”
Dr. James Tomarken, Commissioner of Suffolk County Department of Health Services, said: “We know more than ever about what works and what doesn't when it comes to tobacco cessation. Studies have shown that tobacco users who try to break their addiction with behavioral support are more likely to be successful than those who try to do so without support.”
The Office of Health Education staff has been facilitating tobacco cessation services through the Learn to Be …Tobacco Free program for 18 years, serving more than 19,000 residents. The program is a seven-week course that uses a comprehensive approach in the treatment of tobacco product dependence. Educational and behavioral strategies are provided to assist the patient in developing a quit plan to eliminate the use of tobacco products or electronic nicotine delivery systems, also called ENDS. The program also provides over-the counter medications for a fee to participants who are medically eligible.
To register for the Learn to Be Tobacco Free program, contact the Suffolk County Department of Health Services at 631-853-2928. Registration for the program is open until the second week of each session.
Upcoming Classes
Swezey Pavilion
103 West Main Street, Patchogue
Dates: Tuesday, January 08, 15, 22, 29; February 5, 19; Reunion: March 5, 2019
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
HRHCare Elsie Owens Health Center
82 Middle Country Road, Coram
Dates: Thursday, January 10, 17, 24, 31; February 7, 14; Reunion: February 28, 2019
Time: 6:00p.m – 7:00p.m.
Suffolk County Health Department
725 Veterans Highway, Bldg. C016, Hauppauge
Dates: Tuesday, January 15, 22, 29; February 5, 19, 26; Reunion: March 12, 2019
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Good Samaritan Hospital
1000 Montauk Highway, Infusion Center
Dates: Monday, January 28 February 4, 11, 25; March 4, 11; Reunion: April 1, 2019
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
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