FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 29, 2019
- Santa Clara Valley Medical Center has been awarded for providing an optimal level of care for breastfeeding moms and their babies, which encourages maternal-infant bonding.
- Achieving the Baby-Friendly designation is not an easy task. Criteria are challenging and set the standard for the best possible breastfeeding support for mother and infant in the maternity setting.
- An abundance of scientific evidence concludes that mothers and babies who breastfeed experience improved health outcomes and lower risks for certain diseases.
Santa Clara County, CA - Baby-Friendly USA, announced that Santa Clara Valley Medical Center has received prestigious international recognition as a designated Baby-Friendly birth facility. This award recognizes birth facilities that offer breastfeeding mothers the information, confidence and skills needed to successfully initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies.
“There is no question that breastfeeding is the optimal feeding method for the health of both the baby and mother,” said Dr. Phuong Nguyen, Chief Medical Officer and obstetrician. “Our staff does a great job of supporting new moms and protecting their first days after giving birth as a time of bonding. It makes me proud to receive this award.”
The “Baby-Friendly” designation is given after a rigorous on-site survey is completed. The award is maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.
“At Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, we make sure every mother is fully informed of the importance of breastfeeding,” commented Sue Kehl, Director Inpatient Acute Nursing. “Our staff works with each new mother so that she can achieve her breastfeeding goal.”
Breastfeeding is not possible for some families in certain situations, is sometimes not medically appropriate, and that some mothers will decide not to breastfeed. Every mother has the right to evidence-based information to help her decide how to feed her baby. Santa Clara Valley Medical Center supports and treats all moms with dignity and respect for their infant feeding decision. Baby Friendly supports all families by promoting maternal infant bonding practices.
Currently there are 554 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in the United States. The total number of hospitals in the US is 6,210. To learn more about our exceptional women and children’s services visit www.scvmc.org
#