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Changes to Smokers Helpline for Ontario - Cancel

1. atp

   

   501 posts
   Registered:
   31 Dec 2018
   10 Oct 2019

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   I received an Email today advising that in Ontario we can no longer call smokers helpline, but must instead call the Telehealth Ontario number. 
   
   I'll be honest I never called in, but I know many people do, but I can't see how calling in to a nurse at a call centre will be an improvement over contacting the Smokers Helpline and speaking with someone who is directly connected to quitting smoking and will offer real support. My past experience with Telehealth Ontario is long wait times and mostly general info one can look up on line and then the stand pat 'go to emerg or see your doctor'. 
   
   It just seems to me that the support will be more of the "here's some resources to contact, etc."
   
   Just seems to be a loss of support. 
   
   
   
2. renee, quitcoach

   

   117 posts
   Registered:
   16 Jul 2018
   10 Oct 2019

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   Hello atp,
   
   Things are different and it might be disappointing to some, however, we remain here for you online and the community is here too.  
   
   All the best
   Renee
   
3. justfortoday

   

   168 posts
   Registered:
   12 Aug 2019
   10 Oct 2019

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   I agree with atp on this. It's unfortunate this method of support is no longer available.
   
   Although I never needed to call in, it was certainly an additional net I knew was there just in case. I believe for many, having the ability to "talk" to someone who can relate to their experiences can mean the difference between success and reaching for a cigarette.
   
   Telehealth? Sadly, I don't think this is an appropriate solution.
   
   
4. efram, quit coach

   

   235 posts
   Registered:
   29 Nov 2017
   12 Oct 2019

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   Hi atp and justfortoday,
   
   I understand your concerns. Having support can make a huge difference in one's ability to follow through with success. As Renee noted, our online support continues, and that also still includes the option of text messaging and live chat support in Ontario (and Saskatchewan) with the Quit Coaches at Smokers' Helpline.
   
   For those in Ontario who haven't received the email that you mentioned, atp, Telehealth's phone number is 1-866-797-0000, and they provide:
   
   Evidence-informed smoking cessation supports and information;
   
   Follow-up calls where additional supports and coaching are required;
   
   Access to a Telehealth Ontario nurse to address any symptoms identified during the interaction; 
   
   And bilingual smoking cessation support (and additional real-time translation services that support over 300 languages) from a Care Coach between 10am and 10pm daily and access to Care Coach Assistants 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help callers with ongoing supports and information.
   
   Regards,
   Efram