Celebrating Boston Medical Center’s 25 Years of Baby-Friendly Designation
Boston Medical Center (BMC), an inner-city, safety net hospital in Boston’s South End, was one of the first facilities in the nation to become Baby-Friendly designated. They were designated before the turn of the century! — in December 1999 — and have sustained their commitment to Baby-Friendly practices ever since.
BFUSA recognized this remarkable achievement with a celebratory visit on Monday, June 9. Eileen FitzPatrick, BFUSA’s CEO, joined with staff members in the Mother-Baby Unit at BMC to mark the momentous occasion.
“I’m so happy to be here to recognize BMC for sustaining Baby-Friendly for 25 years,” said Eileen. “It takes a village to keep it going this long. We at BFUSA want to recognize the staff and providers who do this work every day. We value and appreciate you. This is a tremendous achievement that proves sustainability is possible and demonstrates this organization’s dedication to providing the best evidenced-based care to your patients.”
BMC is one of eight facilities across the country celebrating a 25th Baby-Friendly anniversary. The other seven are:
- EvergreenHealth, Kirkland, WA (since September 1996)
- John’s Hospital, Springfield, IL (since June 1998)
- Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, St. Johnsbury, VT (since July 1999)
- Elizabeth Edgewood, Edgewood, KY (since July 1999)
- Rochester General Hospital, Rochester, NY (since May 2000)
- South County Hospital, Wakefield, RI (since August 2000)
- Hartford Hospital, Hartford, CT (since November 2000)
Eileen also took a moment to recognize Dr. Bobbi Philipp with a plaque that reads: “In recognition of your unwavering dedication to breastfeeding support, mother-baby bonding, and evidence-based maternity practices, and in accordance with the standards set by Baby-Friendly USA, we proudly honor your sustained commitment to excellence in maternal and infant care.”
“Dr. Philip is one of the true pioneers of Baby-Friendly practices in the United States and has been a champion at BMC from the very beginning,” said Eileen. “We thank you for your years of service and dedication to breastfeeding and Baby-Friendly.”
