UPMC Harrisburg Redesignated as Baby-Friendly Hospital
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Oct. 24, 2024) – UPMC Harrisburg has been redesignated as a Baby-Friendly Hospital, a prestigious recognition awarded by Baby-Friendly USA. UPMC Harrisburg has successfully met the rigorous criteria required for this designation, reaffirming its dedication to supporting breastfeeding and improving maternal and infant health outcomes. The Baby-Friendly designation is conferred for a 5-year period. The recognition was first awarded to UPMC Harrisburg in 2014.
“The health benefits of breastfeeding for mothers and their babies are well-documented and acknowledged by health authorities globally,” said Amber LeCadre, maternity project coordinator, UPMC Magee-Womens Harrisburg. “Our team is committed to empowering mothers by providing comprehensive support and education, equipping them with the resources and confidence they need to make informed decisions about infant feeding.”
The Baby-Friendly designation involves implementing the “Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding” model, which includes practices such as immediate skin-to-skin contact after birth, rooming-in and providing breastfeeding education and support. Research has shown that hospitals following these steps significantly increase breastfeeding initiation and duration rates, leading to better health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
“Receiving this redesignation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire maternity care team,” said Elizabeth Ritter, president, UPMC Harrisburg, UPMC Community Osteopathic and UPMC West Shore and interim president of UPMC Carlisle. “We are committed to offering the highest quality care and support to our community, and this recognition highlights our ongoing efforts to promote and support breastfeeding.”
The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), a global program launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), recognizes hospitals and birthing centers that offer an optimal level of care for infant feeding and mother/baby bonding.
Some of the benefits of breastfeeding for babies include:
- A 50 percent reduction in the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
- Antibodies in breast milk help protect babies from illness
- Lower risk of asthma and allergies
- Reduced likelihood of being overweight or obese
- Higher IQs in children fed human milk
Maternal benefits of breastfeeding include:
- Reduced risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer
- Faster return to pre-pregnancy weight
- Decreased risk of osteoporosis
- Lower lifetime risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes
- Enhanced bonding with the baby
- Financial savings of $1,000 or more compared to formula feeding
UPMC Harrisburg joins other UPMC facilities, including UPMC Lititz and UPMC Williamsport, in achieving Baby-Friendly status. This collective effort underscores UPMC’s commitment to excellence in maternal and infant care across the region.
For more information about UPMC Harrisburg’s maternity services and breastfeeding support, visit UPMC.com/CentralPaWomen
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Malini Mattler Manager, Media Relations
- October 24, 2024
- 717-418-4833
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Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.
In Hanover, Pennsylvania, history enthusiasts can enjoy a journey through time with visits to the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich past; the Warehime-Myers Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century architecture; and the Neas House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Hanover, offering a glimpse into the life of the 18th-century Pennsylvania German settlers. These historical landmarks provide a captivating window into Hanover’s heritage and are a must-visit for those looking to experience the town’s historical charm.
In addition to Codorus State Park and Hickory Falls, Hanover is also known for the Snack Town Street Fair, a vibrant festival celebrating the town’s snack food heritage with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, created in partnership between the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce and Utz Brands
Hanover provides a rich historical experience with tours like the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour and the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in nearby Gettysburg.
Hanover, Pennsylvania, is renowned as the Snack Food Capital of the World, home to iconic brands like Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover, which are part of the Campbell Snacks portfolio.
Dolphin & Anchor Pub: Located in the heart of Hanover, they offer traditional beer styles with a twist.
Sign of the Horse Brewery: A contemporary brewery catering to craft brew enthusiasts with a range of house taps.
Fat Bat Brewing Company: A local brewery started by a beer-loving brother and sister team, known for their craft beer selections.
Iron Lion: A place where you can enjoy a selection of craft beers in a market setting1.
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