ST. MARYS — The Ohio Hospital Association and the Ohio Department of Health have announced that Joint Township District Memorial Hospital’s Birthing Center has been awarded 1-star from the Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies program.

Joint Township Hospital is one of 22 hospitals in the state of Ohio to receive a designation from this program. The Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies program is a voluntary breastfeeding designation initiative that recognizes maternity centers in Ohio for taking steps to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding in their organization.

A star is awarded for every two steps achieved in the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, as defined by the World Health Organization and Baby-Friendly USA. Participation in the Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies program demonstrates a hospital’s commitment to improve the lives of Ohioans by implementing evidence-based practices for breastfeeding.

“Breastfeeding is the healthiest choice for both mom and baby, and is an important component to combatting infant mortality in the state of Ohio,” said Amy Becker, Clinical Coordinator of the Birthing Center at Joint Township Hospital. “The birthing center staff is very pleased to learn of this recognition and excited to continue along the path of best practices for breastfeeding-friendly health care.”