Smokers’ Helpline shutting down

The Ford government is scrapping the province’s Smokers’ Helpline, and moving services elsewhere.

The Ministry of Health is moving services provided by the helpline to Telehealth Ontario.

The helpline is run by the Canadian Cancer Society with funding from the province.

Minister of Health Christne Elliott said there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution to help those looking to quit smoking.

“That’s why it’s so vital we offer services that can connect Ontarians to comprehensive supports, be that access to registered dietitians, primary care experts or mental health and addictions counselling,” Elliott said in a statement. “With this change, we are making it easier for patients across Ontario to benefit from connected health care that puts them at the centre of care they need, when they need it.”

The helpline will be shut down on Oct. 1.

The government says residents will still have access to registered nurses and smoking cessation support through Telehealth Ontario.

It is estimated the move will save the province around $750,000 annually. In a news release, Elliott thanked the Canadian Cancer Society for their long-standing partnership. Jeff Cornett, executive director for the Ontario branch of the Canadian Cancer Society, called the decision “disappointing.”

“While we made a significant effort to reverse the Ontario government’s decision and promote the value and success of the helpline, their decision to transfer this service to Telehealth was final,” Cornett says.

He said they will continue to provide online services at SmokersHelpline.ca.