Kettering Medical Center is taking steps to support successful breastfeeding. The hospital was awarded four out of five possible stars through the Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies breastfeeding designation program.
This voluntary program organized by the Ohio Hospital Association and Ohio Department of Health recognizes maternity centers in Ohio for taking steps to promote, protect, and support breast feeding in their organization. A star is awarded for every two steps achieved in the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, as defined by the World Health Organization and Baby-Friendly USA.
“Through the Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies initiative, we are having thoughtful conversations about the benefits of breastfeeding in order to educate patients and the community,” says Miriam Cartmell, executive director of the network’s Women’s and Children’s Service Line. “The support a new mother receives from hospital caregivers can impact her decision to breastfeed. Increasing the number of breastfed newborns can lead to a decrease in the likelihood for future health conditions for the child such as asthma, diabetes, and obesity.”