Essentia Health-St. Joseph’s Medical Center again recognized as a Baby-Friendly hospital

Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Medical Center has again been recognized as a Baby-Friendly hospital by Baby-Friendly USA, affirming its commitment to provide exceptional, evidence-based care for mothers and newborns. It’s the second time St. Joseph’s has received this prestigious distinction, which highlights the hospital’s dedication to promoting breastfeeding and fostering optimal infant-feeding practices.

The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, a global program sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, recognizes hospitals that implement the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and adhere to the International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes. St. Joseph’s first earned this designation in 2020 and has now successfully met the rigorous standards for re-designation, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to supporting families in their breastfeeding journey.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this re-designation, which reflects our team’s dedication to providing compassionate, family-centered care,” said Dr. Patricia Segler, the OB/GYN department chair at St. Joseph’s Medical Center. “Our staff works tirelessly to empower mothers and families with the education, support and resources they need to give their babies the best possible start in life.”

The Baby-Friendly designation underscores Essentia Health’s holistic approach to maternal and infant care, including skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth, breastfeeding education and a supportive environment for families. This achievement ensures that families in Brainerd and surrounding communities have access to high-quality, evidence-based care close to home.

The designation is good for five years.