COLUMBUS, Ind. – Columbus Regional Health (CRH) has once again been designated a baby-friendly health facility by the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, an international program sponsored by the World Health Organization and UNICEF to encourage and recognize hospitals and birthing centers that offer the optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.
Columbus Regional Health received its initial designation in 2014. The re-designation was given after a rigorous on-site survey was completed. It means CRH follows a series of guidelines, practices, and policies that offer every mother the information, confidence, and skills needed to successfully initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies, and assist mothers who cannot or choose not to.
The guidelines include following an evidence-based ten-step process, that supports bonding between babies and parents, education on safe and healthy feeding practices, and ongoing care of babies.
Columbus Regional Health will host a ceremony to celebrate the re-designation on Monday, August 26, from 3 to 5 p.m., in the Kroot Auditorium on the hospital grounds. The public is welcome and refreshments will be served from 4 to 5 p.m.