In a revelation, 20,000 cigarette packs were disclosed to have been purchased within the confines of the Tomsk Psychiatric Hospital.

Tobacco distribution occurs solely at the patient's request and under the watchful eye of medical professionals, as confirmed by the healthcare facility.

, and Administrator

2025 September 15 . 12:03 PM

2 min read

Illicit procurement of 20,000 cigarette packs detailed in Tomsk's psychiatric hospital uncovered

In a revelation, 20,000 cigarette packs were disclosed to have been purchased within the confines of the Tomsk Psychiatric Hospital.

In a surprising turn of events, the Tomsk Clinical Psychiatric Hospital, established in 1899 and renowned for its extensive network of over 30 units including inpatient facilities, outpatient clinics, and diagnostic departments, has made a purchase of 20,000 packs of cigarettes in 2025.

The regional state budgetary institution, the Administration of Tomsk Oblast Canteen, served as the customer for the food and alcohol procurement, with the tobacco products being purchased at regulated prices. The press service of the regional health department reported this information.

The decision to procure cigarettes was not taken lightly. Medical professionals at the hospital understand that a full cessation of smoking for individuals with mental health issues could potentially lead to stress and treatment complications. As such, cigarettes were dispensed strictly upon patient request, with the consent of medical staff required beforehand.

The process of dispensing cigarettes was closely monitored by senior nurses and rehabilitation instructors to ensure it was carried out responsibly. The batches of cigarettes were registered in the "Honest Sign" digital marking system, a measure designed to increase transparency and accountability.

It is important to note that the tobacco product procurement was funded through non-budgetary sources. Previously, the Tomsk administration had purchased food and alcohol worth over 1.2 million rubles.

Contrary to speculation, no new procurements of cigarettes are currently planned for the hospital. The hospital's stock of unsold cigarettes has already been depleted.

While the identity of the individual who ordered and authorized the monthly cigarette quantities at the Tomsk Psychiatric Hospital in 2025 remains undisclosed, the move to purchase cigarettes was made with the aim of preventing patient condition deterioration.

This news serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in mental health care and the delicate balance between promoting wellbeing and adhering to societal norms.