Application for Breastfeeding Training and Quality Improvement Technical Assistance:

The Regional Perinatal Programs of California are proud to announce the release of an Application for Breastfeeding Training and Quality Improvement Technical Assistance for the “Birth and Beyond California Project”. 

Despite a growing amount of research on the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, as well as endorsements from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the World Health Organization, breastfeeding rates in California fall below national objectives.  California hospitals have initiation rates of 83% for any breastfeeding, but only 43% for exclusive breastfeeding.  The hospital stay is a critical period for the mother and infant, where important bonding occurs and the pathway to breastfeeding success is paved.  This project aims to support hospitals in the process of improving breastfeeding rates through technical assistance, resource development, and on-site education and training. 

Hospital staff and administrators must agree to participate in multiple training sessions and quality improvement groups, as well as promote and document changes in hospital policies and practice.  Any hospital located in Fresno, Kern, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Mariposa, Merced, Orange, Santa Barbara, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Tulare, or Ventura counties is encouraged to apply.  The current project is anticipated to run from July 1, 2008, through June 30, 2011.  Applications are due by 12:00 noon, June 6, 2008.

Twelve hospitals will be selected during this cycle.  There will be five more cycles during 2008 – 2011.  Hospitals that are not selected during this cycle will be eligible to apply for future cycles.

Funds for this project are provided by the California Department of Public Health, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program.  There is no charge to the hospital for the training and technical assistance provided by the Regional Perinatal Program consultants and trainers.

Birth and Beyond California Project Announcement

Application Checklist

Memorandum of Understanding

Application/Self-Appraisal Questionnaire