St. Elizabeth Healthcare and Newport on the Levee joined forces this month to create a wellness series that included Newport on the Levee transitioning to a smoke- and vape-free property.
In addition, with the guidance of St. Elizabeth expertise, Newport on the Levee hosted more than 40 wellness classes of yoga, dance and tai chi open to the public. St. Elizabeth also provided free smoke cessation classes for Levee tenants.
John Mitchell, senior vice president and chief operating officer of St. Elizabeth Ft. Thomas and Covington said St. Elizabeth Healthcare takes its role in the community very seriously when it comes to wellness and health. When Newport on the Levee approached about a partnership, he said, St. Elizabeth was eager to help.
“Kentucky is ranked #1 in the nation in deaths from cancer and chronic lower respiratory disease and top ten in deaths caused by heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, flu/pneumonia, kidney disease, and septicemia, Mitchell said. “So there is a very real need in our state and in our community to offer education and activities to help the public understand the very serious consequences of smoking and the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle,”
Newport on the Levee’s transition to a smoke-free property is part of a national trend toward encouraging smoking cessation. Earlier this year, Walt Disney World parks in Florida and California became smoke-free, and just last week, Walmart announced it was raising the minimum age to buy tobacco products to 21 in July.
CVS Health also was recognized by Fast Company as the top healthcare innovator of 2018, thanks in part to its decision to stop sales of cigarettes in its stores.
“This program is a small part of a larger vision to transform Newport on the Levee into the community hub of activity and gathering that we know it can be,” said Barney Estes, Newport on the Levee general manager. “St. Elizabeth has been an excellent partner, offering their expertise so that we could develop classes and information to our guests that will improve their lives. We are excited to provide unique experiences for our neighbors and guests throughout the year, especially programs like this which will enhance their health and well-being,”.
Newport on the Levee and St. Elizabeth Healthcare
