The University Hospital of La Palma, along with the Primary Care network, is progressing in the accreditation process for the BFHI (Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative) program, reaffirming its commitment to promoting breastfeeding.
On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, celebrated from August 1 to 7, the Health Area of La Palma, in collaboration with the Management of Health Services of the Canary Health Service (SCS), has organized awareness-raising events. Two informational panels will be installed in the main lobbies of the hospital, and the poster "We strengthen actions that work" will be disseminated on digital screens and the professional training application.
These initiatives aim to raise public awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding for the health of mothers and babies, and to highlight the work being done for families. The objective is to showcase the commitment of the Health Area of La Palma to this practice, disseminating protection, promotion, and support initiatives.
This reinforces the institutional commitment and that of healthcare professionals to evidence-based care, aligned with national and international recommendations. These events are an opportunity to drive improvements, training, and awareness, integrated into the Annual Plan for Quality and Promotion of Breastfeeding.
The actions allow for the dissemination of resources and services from the University Hospital of La Palma and the Primary Care network, centers accredited under the BFHI, which aim for the humanization and improvement of care for breastfeeding and maternal-child health.
Healthcare professionals from the Health Area of La Palma have initiated the process to achieve BFHI accreditation, which has already reached phase 1D. This process involves changes in clinical practice, dissemination actions, and coordinated work among various professionals and services.
A multidisciplinary Breastfeeding Commission, with representation from nurses, midwives, gynecologists, pediatricians, and hospital management, coordinates the process. Additionally, there is a specialized Breastfeeding Consultation, the BPSO initiative in Breastfeeding, and support groups for families.
The University Hospital of La Palma has a Breastfeeding Policy protocol that follows the recommendations of the Ten Steps and the Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes by UNICEF/WHO. Training actions are being implemented, and resources are available for the care of breastfeeding mothers and newborns.
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, aims to promote the best start in life by ensuring optimal practices in care during pregnancy, childbirth, the neonatal period, and especially breastfeeding.
WABA and BFHI, established in 1991 under the auspices of the WHO and UNICEF, work globally to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding. WABA coordinates World Breastfeeding Week, while BFHI focuses on improving the quality of care received by women, newborns, and families.
