NHS of Greater Glasgow and Clyde Now Allowing E-Cig Use at Hospitals

In a rather surprising move Scotland's largest health board, Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS recently lifted the ban on electronic cigarettes within hospital grounds.

Tobacco smoking was banned on all health grounds in Scotland in April of last year, but health boards were given discretion over the use of vaping devices outside of its buildings. At that time NHS Lothian was the only one the 13 ruling bodies to adopt a plan that allowed restricted use of e-cigs.

However, after further research and the compiling of the latest statistics it is excellent news that the Greater Glasgow and Clyde NHS (GGC) have decided to follow suit - come on then Scottish NHS Hospitals - we implore you all to follow the lead made by NHS Lothian!

In the Doctor's Words

NHS GGC's director of public health Dr. Emilia Crighton explained the board's decision by saying;

"Tobacco is still the most common preventable cause of death in Scotland with smoking to blame for around a quarter of all deaths.

We're now allowing e-cigarettes on our grounds to give our patients, staff, and visitors more choice in how they quit smoking.

We have seen the percentage of people who smoke fall from 37.5% to 25% over the last 10 years. I believe allowing e-cigarette use is the next tool in that fight and it will play a role in reducing that figure even more."

Turning Tides for E-cig Use

While there are still many battles yet to be fought while we realise that not all of them will be victories it is very nice to see that once again common sense is prevailing in our tiny island home.

The current decision by NHS GGC coupled with recent developments in NHS England shows a clear sign that the tide for official acceptance may finally be turning in our favour!

Do Our Part

What the future may hold is yet to be seen and, with the current political question of Britain's place in the European Union and the EU's position on electronic cigarettes still up in the air, this is not a time to breathe easy. Still, there is hope!

If we all band together and do our part - making our voices heard, we can continue to enjoy our freedom to vape.