2008 Improving Illinois WIC Breastfeeding Rates:  Analysis and Sharing of Hospital Breastfeeding Best Practices 

In an effort to reach the Healthy People 2010 objectives, hospital support of breastfeeding was assessed by looking at WIC infant deliveries across the state in FY08. Lactation Consultants were surveyed at hospitals with WIC breastfeeding initiation rates of at least 80%. Similar successful strategies were identified with the goal of implementing these key pieces at all Illinois hospitals to improve hospital breastfeeding initiation rates and one-month duration rates for WIC clients. 

Initial WIC baseline data was obtained to assess hospital support of breastfeeding across Illinois for FY08. Analysis was completed using WIC infants born by hospital code, infants who were ever breastfed and breastfed for one-month, and sorted in descending order by percent initiation. Lactation Consultants at those hospitals with at least 80% duration were contacted and completed an informal survey.

Results:  Hospital breastfeeding best practices were identified and key findings were assimilated. Key quotes, next steps, strategies for implementation and the process for sharing and implementing these strategies with WIC staff and all hospitals across the state are detailed.

Analysis of WICBF Rates by Delivery Hospital

2010 Improving Illinois WIC Breastfeeding Rates:  Analysis and Sharing of Hospital Breastfeeding Best Practices 

The survey has been repeated and results will be shared as soon as the report is completed.

Maternity Practices in Infant Nutrition and Care (mPINC)

mPinc Illinois Report 2007