TAMC expands lactation support services to Schofield Barracks and Marine Corps Base Hawaii

By Maj. Blair Cook, Tripler Army Medical Center Maternal Child Health DepartmentNovember 22, 2017

TAMC expands lactation support services to Schofield Barracks and Marine Corps Base Hawaii
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

HONOLULU (November 22, 2017) - In a vigorous effort to work toward achieving proper accreditation, as part of the international Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), health care providers at Tripler Army Medical Center, known as TAMC, continue to deliver the highest standard of care, specifically in educating patients about breastfeeding and babies.

The BFHI is an evidence-based wellness program that provides families with a strong foundation in the early days of a child's life. The initiative also ensures patients receive the same information on breastfeeding, infant feeding and caring for their baby, regardless of where they are receiving care within the hospital.

"One of the most important parts of infant care is ensuring breastfeeding mothers understand they are protected by federal and state laws that allow them to feed their child anywhere they are," said Elaina Hall, a TAMC lactation consultant. "Tripler offers two private lactation rooms for patients, visitors and hospital staff members to nurse their babies, or pump, privately."

Maj. Christina Steimle, director of TAMC Maternal Child Nursing, said, "Breastfeeding has been shown to offer babies many benefits, including decreased risk of sudden infant death syndrome, lower incidences of disease and infection, and stronger bones."

A high percentage of mothers start out breastfeeding, but as issues occur, they often fail to find resources for assistance. Goals set forth by Tripler's Maternal-Child Nursing department focus on expanding breastfeeding support services and access to care for outpatient lactation clinics located at Tripler, U.S. Army Health Clinic at Schofield Barracks and Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH) - Kaneohe Bay.

TAMC outpatient lactation support services is a new initiative this year that began Oct. 1, and is designed to provide education and encouragement for new mothers to aide them in working through the challenges associated with breastfeeding.

Patients are now able to schedule one-on-one appointments with a certified lactation consultant for direct assistance at Tripler, Schofield, Barracks and MCBH.

In addition to clinical support, TAMC also has initiated breastfeeding support groups embedded within these communities. The groups offer a place for informal discussion among peers and assistance from a certified lactation consultant.

For more information about outpatient lactation support services offered at Tripler, Schofield Barracks or MCBH, call 433-3732. To schedule an appointment with a board-certified lactation consultant, call the Tripler appointment line at 433-2778.

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