BAR HARBOR — MDI Health has been recognized by the MaineHealth Center for Tobacco Independence for
its efforts to address tobacco use and secondhand smoke exposure.
The MaineHealth Center for Tobacco Independence’s Breathe Easy Initiative recognized 34 hospitals, healthcare organizations, higher education organizations and behavioral health organizations and two individual Gold Star Champions. Celebrated organizations received a plaque for their achievements in advancing their campus smoke and tobacco-free policies as well as promoting tobacco-free lifestyles.
“I’m proud of it,” said Mary Parham, Community Health Educator at MDI Health. “It is a way for all of the hospitals and different organizations in Maine to all be on the same team and say no to smoking and support people who are trying to quit.”
MDI Health was recognized for meeting the Platinum Level through the 2026 Gold Star Standards of Excellence program for efforts to prohibit smoking and tobacco use, for the sixth year in a row.
“MDI Health’s administration finds that tobacco cessation and tobacco treatment programs are so important,” Parham said. “We report that and are making sure that we’re doing everything to the utmost of our ability.”
All Maine behavioral health organizations, hospitals, higher education organizations and healthcare organizations were encouraged to apply for recognition. Organizations are recognized at the Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels are based on best practice criteria such as a smoke and tobacco-free campus policy, annual screening for tobacco use, referral to tobacco treatment and supporting employee education related to tobacco treatment.
“Maine’s hospitals, healthcare systems, colleges, and behavioral health organizations continue to be leaders in reducing tobacco use, limiting exposure to secondhand smoke, and addressing nicotine addiction,” said Sarah Rines, Director at the MaineHealth Center for Tobacco Independence. “By meeting the Gold Star Standards of Excellence, these organizations are actively supporting the health of their communities. The role of healthcare providers in offering advice and support is essential in helping individuals quit tobacco, and these awardees are leading the way.”
For more information about the Gold Star Standards of Excellence, please visit BreatheEasyMaine.org/GSSE.
