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The recognition is part of a program sponsored by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund. The program encourages and recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.
Franciscan Skemp is the sixth hospital in Wisconsin, and the 70th nationally to be designated as baby-friendly. The designation was based on an on-site survey and the medical center’s commitment to practice high standards of care.
Gundersen Lutheran has completed the application and survey process and is awaiting the results.
Beth Padesky, Franciscan Skemp lactation consultant, said the process to become a baby-friendly hospital took 7½ years and is part of a global initiative with certification of 19,000 hospitals.
“This designation means we are providing a high level of care and implementing evidence-based practices,” Padesky said.
She said patients will get correct, current information to help them choose a method for feeding their babies.
Padesky said if a woman chooses to breastfeed, she will receive support and encouragement during and after the birth of the baby.
“We are changing culture and listening and honoring families,” said Bonny Young, director of Franciscan Skemp’s Family Birthplace.
Taking baby steps
Franciscan Skemp received the baby-friendly designation by demonstrating these 10 steps:
Mom and Baby group
Franciscan Skemp offers Mom and Baby, a support group for new moms, dads and babies. The group meets from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays in the Sally Olson Conference Room in the Family Health Center, 815 S. 10th Street. For more information, call (608) 392-4172.
