As president of the Mutuelle des hospitaliers (MNH), which has 45,000 members, the author provides a brief overview of the organization’s mission, then discusses the role of hospital healthcare staff as role models and educators for patients in promoting preventive behaviors. To be effective, a partnership is necessary with external organizations and associations involved in the relevant fields, such as tobacco and AIDS. The brochure produced with ARCAT SIDA for healthcare professionals is used as an educational resource in nursing schools and even in schools. Regarding smoking, in support of national campaigns and the WHO program, awareness posters for the Smoke-Free Hospital Network have been created. Within this network, a charter committing professionals to be non-smokers is enforced. A Smoke-Free Hospital Award is presented annually. The MNH is also active in other areas: prevention of cardiovascular disease and alcoholism; promotion of screening for breast cancer and osteoporosis; prevention of work-related lower back pain and shift work disorders. These initiatives are carried out with volunteers (prevention representatives and local liaisons at healthcare facilities).