UFV realizes quitting smoking can be a real challenge and the university is committed to supporting faculty, staff, and students who may wish to stop smoking.
Government programs
QuitNow
QuitNow is BC’s FREE quit smoking service available to all BC residents. The program is funded by the government of British Columbia and managed by the BC Lung Association. QuitNow is an online community that creates a customized QuitNow checklist, teaches you how to avoid triggers, connects you to support services and a support network, and introduces you to quitting methods and medications.
PharmaCare Smoking Cessation
The PharmaCare BC Smoking Cessation Program provides a free 12-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy products for free. You can also get access to subsidized prescription pricing for medications that can help you quit.
Student programs
There are a variety of supports for students, but we recommend starting with www.leavethepackbehind.org. Some great features include:
- Booklets on planning to quit
- Booklets with helpful tips on quitting
- Quit smoking apps for your phone
- Info on prescriptions
- Info on Nicotine replacement therapy
- And a Smokers Helpline.
Questions? Please contact the Coast Capital Peer Resource and Leadership Centre for information on resources for quitting smoking, counselling, coaching and cessation aids.
Faculty and Staff programs
Manulife Group Benefits
The UFV Employee Manulife Group Benefits plan provides coverage for up to $500 per lifetime for anti-smoking drugs. Charges incurred for this type of expense are covered when prescribed in writing by a physician or dentist and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist. Review your benefits booklet for more information.
Manulife also offers smoking cessation support through the Lifestyle Health Coaching program. Lifestyle coaches recommend tools, services, and community-based programming. Faculty and staff can access a total of six hours of Lifestyle Health Coaching consultation. Contact the service by calling 1-855-584-4004 or mycoach@manulife.com. Have your plan number and employee number ready.
Homewood Health
UFV's Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, Homewood Health, also offers several resources to assist individuals in quitting. One-on-one coaching is available over the phone as needed. E-courses are also available.
For more information about your benefits and options, visit Human Resources.