Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center earns Baby-Friendly status

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Ahead of its third anniversary, Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center has been awarded the highly prestigious international Baby-Friendly designation after a rigorous review process conducted by Baby-Friendly USA. It is one of 21 hospitals in the state with the designation demonstrating the adherence to the highest standards of care for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.

These standards are built on the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, a set of evidence-based practices recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) for optimal infant feeding support in the first days of a newborn’s life. Novant Health medical centers provide an environment that supports breastfeeding while respecting every parent’s decision on what is best for their family.

“We are deeply honored to be part of life’s most precious moments and to support families as they welcome their newest members,” said Joy Greear, president of Novant Health Ballantyne Medical Center. “Helping parents feel confident as they learn to feed and care for their babies is a privilege we take seriously every day. We are incredibly proud to earn the Baby-Friendly designation in our first year of eligibility, which reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of care and support for both mothers and their infants.”

Designation typically takes four years to complete, and re-designation occurs every five years. Novant Health facilities carrying the Baby-Friendly designation alongside Ballantyne Medical Center include Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center, Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center, Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center, Novant Health Matthews Medical Center, Novant Health Mint Hill Medical Center, Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center, Novant Health Rowan Medical Center and Novant Health Thomasville Medical Center.