To help ensure a healthy, productive, respectful environment in which to work, learn and live, Syracuse University became smoke- and tobacco-free on July 1, 2015.
Together, Human Resources, Carebridge and the Syracuse community offer a variety of tobacco cessation resources:
Discover a purpose-driven mindfulness solution to help you stop tobacco use. QuitSmart™ Mindfully is a live, virtual, 10-session mindfulness program taught by an expert teacher. This program will help you build strategies to cope with cravings and address the emotions behind the addiction that keep you feeling stuck. This program includes free Nicotine Replacement Therapy, NRT (gum or patches).
*You must have an eM Life account through Carebridge to access this free program. Check out the steps to sign up.
Medical Benefits
Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Prescription Medication
If you are enrolled in the University’s health benefits coverage through SUBlue, SUOrange or SUPro, you and your enrolled family members are eligible to receive coverage at no cost to you for prescription drugs and FDA-approved over-the-counter products to help you quit tobacco. You will need a prescription from your physician (even for OTC products) and must fill the prescription with a participating pharmacist. Coverage is available at no copay for up to a 180-day supply of:
- Over-the-Counter Medications (generic or store brand only)
- Nicotine replacement gum, lozenge or patch
- Prescription Medications
- Bupropion sustained-release (generic Zyban) tablet
- These three prescription medications are covered after you have tried one over-the-counter nicotine replacement product and bupropion sustained-release tablet separately:
- Chantix tablet
- Nicotrol inhaler
- Nicotrol nasal spray
If you have any questions about this coverage, contact Optum Rx at the number on your member ID card.
Carebridge
The full suite of Carebridge’s comprehensive services and resources are available to all those eligible to participate in the University’s medical plan, including benefits-eligible faculty and staff, and their dependents. Call Carebridge at 1.800.437.0911 anytime to assist in tobacco cessation.
- Information & Resources: Carebridge Wellness Resource Specialists will provide educational information and resources to help callers learn about preparing for and remaining tobacco free. Resources include community-based support as well as internet and phone-based support.
- Telephonic Consultations: Carebridge provides short-term telephonic consultations with behavioral health clinicians and wellness coaches to assist individuals with cutting back or quitting their tobacco habit.
- Counseling: Carebridge FSAP referrals are available for in-person counseling for tobacco dependence as well as co-morbid conditions such as stress, depression and anxiety.
If you are ready to quit smoking or using tobacco, there are a variety of resources in the community that have helped many smokers and tobacco users take that first step!