Programs in Hamilton to Help You Quit
Hamilton Public Health Services Quit Smoking Clinic - free, confidential and non judgmental service. Appointments are 30 minutes in length with a nurse who works with you to help you achieve your goal to reduce or quit smoking. Counselling includes assessment, lifestyle change counseling, withdrawal management, and referrals. Priority is given to pregnant women, young families, people living in poverty, persons with mental illness, and those without a family physician. However, we do see people who do not fall into these categories. For more information or to book an appointment call 905-540-5566.
The Canadian Cancer Society Smokers' Helpline - free, confidential telephone service you can call for easy access to a trained Quit Coach. They can help you develop a structured “Quit Plan,” answer your questions about quitting, and refer you to services in your community. In addition to the telephone counselling service, the Canadian Cancer Society offers online support, a text messaging service, and maintains an up-to-date database of cessation services that are available by postal code. For more information or to speak to a quit coach call 1-877-513-5333 or visit www.smokershelpline.ca.
Doctor, Dentist or Pharmacist: are good sources of help and support when you are trying to quit smoking. Quitting "cold turkey" is not the only option you have. Your health professional can suggest products to help with the withdrawal symptoms. Some of these products can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription. Others need a prescription from your doctor. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist about these products, their possible side effects, proper use and possible interactions with other medications you may be using.
There are a number of places to access quit smoking medications:
- Ontario Drug Benefit Program recipients are entitled to 12 weeks of Champix® or Buproprion in a 12 month period with a prescription from their doctor. They can receive quit smoking counselling from a pharmacist.
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Students attending post secondary schools (e.g.: Mohawk College or McMaster University) may access quit smoking medications and counselling through their Student Health Services.
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Persons who are First Nations and Inuit are entitled to nicotine replacement therapy (patch and gum) or prescription Zyban through the Health Canada’s Non-Insured Health Benefits Program.
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Many Family Health Teams are able to access nicotine replacement therapy for rostered patients. Check with your family doctor.
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Many benefits providers offer coverage for both nicotine replacement therapy and/or prescription quit smoking medications. Check with your provider.
For more information, call the Tobacco Hotline at 905-540-5566.
Last updated: February 17, 2012