You’ll recall that back in February of this year, St. Paul’s Hospital welcomed assessors from the Breastfeeding Committee for Canada (BCC), who spent three days and nights visiting each unit and speaking with staff and patients. Their evaluation was the final step in our three-year journey to become designated as Baby-Friendly, as part of the Baby-Friendly Initiative (BFI).
We have received the results of this evaluation and I am extremely pleased to announce that St. Paul’s is now designated as a Baby-Friendly hospital. We are only the second in British Columbia to achieve this designation, which is an incredible feat that could not have been accomplished without the passion and dedication of all of the staff, medical staff, contractors and volunteers.
In the report, assessors gave specific mention that “trauma informed, culturally sensitive care is provided to all families with sensitivity to the needs of the diverse population served by St. Paul’s”. This was especially pleasing to hear as we build on our commitment to Reconciliation and continue to incorporate person-centered care in everything we do.
Additionally, being designated Baby-Friendly provides us with a quality improvement framework to ensure that best practices are continually maintained, including throughout the transition to the new St. Paul’s, and aligned with Providence’s foundational principle of person-centered care. The Maternity team would like to acknowledge the Patient Partners who generously volunteered their time to shape and support this initiative.
Let’s celebrate
On May 3rd, the Pregnancy, Birthing and Newborn Centre, along with Perinatal Services BC will be holding a plaque ceremony to celebrate this achievement. All staff are welcome to attend; more information about this event will be communicated in the coming weeks.
Thanks to everyone who led, championed, or learned about this initiative, we couldn’t have done it without you.
Sincerely,
Norm Peters
Chief Operating Officer, Providence Health Care
