Columbus Regional Health has been re-designated an official Baby-Friendly Hospital by the World Health Organization and UNICEF. This prestigious re-designation comes as part of the international Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), a 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 is given after a rigorous on-site survey is completed. The designation means Columbus Regional Health 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 assists mothers who cannot or choose not to breastfeed with the information and skills to alternatively feed their babies safely.

   The guidelines include following an evidence-based 10-step process, that supports bonding between babies and parents, education on safe and healthy feeding practices and ongoing care of babies. Following the established 10-step process supports lifetime health benefits for both moms and babies. 

   Columbus Regional Health is one of more than 570 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the United States. There will be a ceremony to celebration the re-designation from 3 to 5 p.m. August 26 in the Kroot Auditorium at Columbus Regional Hospital. The public is welcome and refreshments will be served from 4 to 5 p.m.

For more information visit our Birthing Center.