Patients, providers and visitors at all AtlantiCare locations won’t be able to buy regular sodas and other sugar-sweetened beverages on the premises as experts opt for healthier products.
Following the lead of other major cities and communities that have imposed taxes on sugary drinks in efforts to decrease consumption, AtlantiCare will eliminate the sale and serving of bottled or prepackaged and fountain-prepared sugar-sweetened beverages starting Sept. 7.
“As a result of the documented health consequences of added sugar, we are taking what we believe is a sip in the right direction toward enhancing the health and well-being of our patients, visitors, staff and providers,” said Audrey Heist, Director of Health Engagement at AtlantiCare.
Staff, patients and visitors will still be allowed to bring in whatever beverages they’d like. Regular diet ginger ale will still be available on the floor pantries and diet soda will be available in the cafeterias and vending machines.