Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. announced that Bridgton Hospital has received prestigious international recognition and has been re-designated as a Baby-Friendly birth facility.
Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. is the U.S. authority for the implementation of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (“BFHI”), a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). The initiative encourages and recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. Based on the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding”, this prestigious international award recognizes birth facilities that offer breastfeeding mothers the information, confidence, and skills needed to successfully initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies.
Bridgton Hospital’s staff includes two certified Lactation Counselors who provide support and education for breastfeeding mothers. In addition, the hospital offers breastfeeding classes six times a year and hosts “Mom’s Milk”, a breastfeeding support group. Bridgton Hospital also offers breast pump rentals and other breastfeeding supplies. Expectant and breastfeeding mothers can learn more by calling 207-647-6000.
There are more than 20,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide. Currently there are 400 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the United States. The “Baby-Friendly” re-designation is given after a rigorous survey is completed. The award is maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.
About Baby Friendly USA, Inc.
Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. (BFUSA) is the accrediting body and the national authority for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in the United States. In this capacity, BFUSA is responsible for coordinating and conducting all of the activities necessary to confer the Baby-Friendly designation.
BFUSA is a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in 1997 the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Since 2011, the corporate headquarters has been located in Albany, NY. Learn more at: www.babyfriendlyusa.org.