June 7, 2017 – Baby-Friendly USA has designated El Camino Hospital Los Gatos as a Baby-Friendly® Hospital. Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative encourages and recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies. This prestigious international recognition is given after the implementation of Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and a rigorous on-site survey is completed.
“The connection between mom and baby within the first few hours and following days has long-term health benefits that are internationally recognized,” says Cheryl Reinking, Chief Nursing Officer of El Camino Hospital. “This designation publicly declares what we have known about the nurses and physicians at our Los Gatos campus for a long time. They share an exceptional focus on providing moms and new babies with the best breastfeeding education and experience possible through specialized lactation consultants, resources and support. A truly family-centered approach to care.”
El Camino Hospital Los Gatos delivers more than 500 babies each year in a family-friendly environment, which includes private birthing suites and mother-baby rooms. Physician specialists with experience in high-risk pregnancies, a Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as well as nurse-midwives are available to provide care that meets the preferences of mom and family. The nurses, physicians and nurse-midwives at Los Gatos have achieved the Healthy People 2020 goal of a Cesarean section rate of 23.9 percent or lower for low-risk, first time deliveries. The hospital has also achieved a 92.2 percent exclusive breastfeeding rate.
There are more than 20,000 designated Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers worldwide. Currently there are 95 active Baby-Friendly hospitals and birth centers in California. The award is for a period of five years and is maintained by continuing to practice the Ten Steps as demonstrated by quality processes.