Nationwide, the average cost of a pack of cigarettes (including taxes) is about $5.51, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids in Washington, D.C.

For those who smoke a pack a day, that’s about $155 a month, or just over $2,000 a year.

Saving money is only one of the benefits individuals may enjoy when they register for the “Freedom from Smoking®” course. On Tuesday nights from 6:30 until 8:30 p.m. beginning March 6, West Valley Hospital in Dallas will offer this seven-week night course with the curriculum developed by the American Lung Association. The course is “Gold Standard” for successful smoking cessation.

The class will be held at the West Valley Hospital conference room, 525 SE Washington Street. Many insurance companies including the Oregon Health Plan will cover the $120 fee for the class. It is recommended that participants check with their insurance company for specific benefits.

To promote the health of its staff, Salem Health employees may take this course for free. This employee benefit also includes a free three-month supply of nicotine patches.

Advance registration required. For more information or to reserve a place in class, please visit salemhealth.org/chec.org or call 503-814-2432.

West Valley Hospital and the Community Health Education Center, are each a part of Salem Health, which includes Salem Hospital, Willamette Health Partners, and other affiliated healthcare organizations offering quality care to people in and around Oregon’s Willamette Valley.