January 17, 2022 (Toronto) – It is National Non-Smoking Week, a time to reflect on goals of quitting or reducing smoking, and a reminder that it is possible with the right kinds of support. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, CAMH’s Smoking Treatment for Ontario Patients (STOP) Program launched an online program – STOP on the Net – to bring smoking cessation treatment to Ontarians from the safety and comfort of their home [learn more here]. With the support of the Ontario Ministry of Health, STOP on the Net recently expanded its offering to 8 weeks of free smoking cessation treatment for Ontario adults over 18 years of age.
“COVID continues to place pressure on the health care system and CAMH wants to ensure it is still offering evidence-based, virtual programs to support individuals wanting to quit smoking cigarettes,” Dr. Peter Selby, Clinician Scientist and Lead of CAMH’s STOP Programs. “By expanding to 8 weeks of treatment, our goal is to support people throughout a quit attempt to increase their chances of successfully quitting.”
To-date, over 11,000 Ontario adults have received smoking cessation treatment from STOP on the Net, with over 30 per cent of participants reporting being quit half a year after enrolling. As one participant shared, “Thank you very much for this program…These types of programs seem to be in decline, but what you do is amazing and genuinely helped me quit smoking. I am happier and healthier because of the program.”
“Our government continues to take steps to ensure that Ontarians can access the safe and effective supports they need throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, including from the safety of their homes,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “We are pleased to continue supporting CAMH in delivering this innovative virtual program, so that more Ontarians can receive help on their journey to successfully quit smoking and live a healthier life.”
See if you are eligible for STOP on the Net by visiting www.stoponthenet.com today. Eligible participants will receive a free 8-week kit of nicotine replacement therapy mailed directly to their address.