Apply to the Program

A facility may submit an application via the online survey platform, REDCap. The online application allows a user to upload files and images and save their progress and return to complete their submission at a later time. Facilities may submit an application at any time!

For instructions on submitting an application, please download a copy of our Application Instructions.

For important program information, please download a copy of our Frequently Asked Questions Sheet. Reading this before you begin the application is recommended.

VA Breastfeeding Friendly hospital program logo

Evaluation

There are two times that applications are evaluated by the Review Committee during the year:

The first review session occurs in April, and the second review session occurs in November.

If an application is submitted by 11:59 PM on April 1st, it will be reviewed during the April session by our Review Committee. All applications submitted after 11:59 PM on April 1st will be reviewed during our second session in November.

If an application is submitted by 11:59 PM on November 1st, it will be reviewed during the November session by our Review Committee. All applications submitted after 11:59 PM on November 1st will be reviewed the following April.

Please note that if your facility earns a breastfeeding-friendly award and chooses to apply for a higher level of designation within the three years the original designation is granted, you will only need to submit the additional steps your facility is seeking to achieve. Any higher level of designation earned will expire at the same date as your original award.

If questions arise, please be sure to check the Application Instructions and Frequently Asked Questions documents first. If you are unable to find the answer to your question, you may contact our team using the Contact Us form!


RedCap Application Tutorial

The video below is a tutorial of how to fill out and submit our program application on REDCap.

Last Updated: October 24, 2025