The Virginia Maternity Breastfeeding-Friendly Designation Program uses the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding from the World Health Organization and UNICEF. The program was launched in 2015 to recognize birthing facilities which promote breastfeeding and create an environment that is supportive for breastfeeding families and patients.
All birthing facilities in Virginia are eligible to apply for designation, and they are evaluated based on how many of the Ten Steps they implement into their practices and policies. The program is a step in the pathway for hospitals who are preparing to apply for the Baby-Friendly USA Hospital Initiative, which is internationally recognized. Hospitals that are not yet considering applying for Baby Friendly USA status are also invited and encouraged to apply to Virginia’s designation program!
Unlike the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, the VA MCBFD Program does not charge hospitals a fee to participate, nor does it require site visits to the facility from health department staff.
Bronze
2 steps completed
Silver
4 steps completed
Gold
6 steps completed
Platinum
8 steps completed
Diamond
10 steps completed