[Smokeless health institutions--what progress was achieved so far?]

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy

Context:

• The Norwegian Ministry of Health and Social Affairs launched a plan in 1991 for smoke-free health institutions by 1994.
• A 1993 survey assessed progress toward this goal across Norwegian hospitals, elderly care, and psychiatric institutions.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the progress of establishing smoke-free environments in Norwegian health institutions.
• To remind institutions of the 1991 action plan and assess their commitment.

Summary:

• A survey of 1,437 Norwegian health institutions revealed a 33% response rate (68% for hospitals).
• Only 55% of responding institutions decided to implement smoke-free policies, with many others lacking plans for future action.

Impact:

• The study highlights a need for stronger governmental and municipal involvement to achieve nationwide smoke-free health institutions.
• Further action is required to ensure compliance and widespread adoption of smoke-free policies in healthcare settings.