Co-workers Help Out At Medtronic

Medtronic, which makes health care equipment, supports a healthy workforce. Tobacco cessation has long been a key component of Medtronic’s wellness focus. Medtronic uses the Great American Smokeout as a rallying time to get employees geared up to quit smoking. The entire company gets into the act – smokers and non-smokers alike. The company gears up for the day by promoting it early and often through newsletters, the website and posters. Employees are encouraged to set the Great American Smokeout as their quit day. That day, classes and seminars are held to get people started. Benefits and services for smokers are heavily promoted. Everyone gets a free lunch. Mints, gum and toothpicks are well stocked. The company also offers cash incentives for employees who agree to “adopt” a co-worker and help them through the day as they’re trying to quit. Moral support and encouragement is a key ingredient in Medtronic’s successful employee cessation program. Smokers are embraced.