Fall 2010

While hospitals are designed as places for medical treatment and healing, many North Carolina hospital campuses still permitted the use of tobacco until 2009. Today, thanks to the Healthy NC Hospitals Initiative, all acute care hospitals have 100 percent tobacco-free campus policies. That work is continuing now through a tobacco cessation system for patients, visitors and employees.

The initiative is also revolutionizing nutrition standards in hospital cafeterias and vending machines. A recent event in Charlotte, N.C., highlighted the “Red Apple” program by bringing together teams of hospital chefs in a day-long culinary competition.

  • Creating a Network of Care for the Low-Income Uninsured

    With a growing number of low-income, uninsured people, many communities in North Carolina and South Carolina are forming local networks to coordinate care and improve access. In Spartanburg County, a new program helps lead the way for creating sustainable, community-based networks.

  • Strengthening Communities Through Affordable Housing

    In the mountains of western North Carolina, Hinton Rural Life Center is helping families lower their debt and repair their credit, then move into affordable homes.

  • Helping Schools Explore Sustainability

    With a grant from The Duke Endowment, representatives from four colleges and universities in the Carolinas are working together to make their campuses more environmentally sustainable. A Q & A with task force chair Angela Halfacre offers insight on this unique collaboration.