New York, NY: NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan has once again achieved the highly prestigious international “Baby-Friendly” designation after a rigorous review process conducted by Baby-Friendly USA, the organization responsible for bestowing this certification in the United States. The designation recognizes hospitals that encourage and promote breastfeeding and mother-baby bonding. Metropolitan Hospital earned its first Baby-Friendly USA designation in 2017, and the re-designation is in effect through 2028.
“We are very proud and delighted that our team has been once again recognized with this distinction,” said Cristina Contreras, LMSW, MPA, FABC, Chief Executive Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan. “The coveted Baby-Friendly designation is a reflection of our commitment to mothers and babies and acknowledges the hard work and caring of our obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, nurses, and other staff, who are all dedicated to making the birthing experience here exceptional. We work diligently every day to provide top-quality services to all of our newest patients and their mothers.”
Of the 981 babies born at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan in 2023, 96 percent initiated breastfeeding immediately following delivery.
“This designation is the culmination of a lot of hard work and determination across our organization, all with a goal of helping families get off to a good start,” said Vani Dandolu, MD, Chair, OB/GYN. “We are proud to offer an environment that supports best practices shown to increase breastfeeding exclusivity and are committed to give moms who choose to breastfeed the best chance for success.”
For more information about the Women’s Health Center at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan, visit Women’s Health – NYC Health + Hospitals (nychealthandhospitals.org) or call 212-423-7769.
