HILO BENIOFF HOSPITAL

Hilo Benioff Medical Center is committed to improving breastfeeding support for Big Island families. Our newest CHAMPion of the Week implemented an annual ‘Newborn Feeding Survey’ with staff to identify barriers, training needs, and ways to support staff and patients. Feedback from the first survey has already sparked positive changes at the hospital, including a new hire, lactation education, and enrollment in CHAMPS National!

Hilo Benioff Medical Center is the largest hospital on the Island of Hawaii. The hospital helps bring ~1,000 babies into the world annually, striving to make every birthing experience safe and memorable. Hilo Benioff Medical Center joined CHAMPS National in April 2024 to increase exclusive breastfeeding rates and improve education and support for Big Island families.

In 2022, Hilo Benioff Medical Center reinvigorated its Breastfeeding Committee as part of its commitment to patient care and subsequently conducted a ‘Newborn Feeding Survey’ to gather feedback from staff. Survey results highlighted the need for increased breastfeeding education and dedicated lactation support, leading to hiring an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®) and paid protected time for lactation education for nurses. Additionally, survey results highlighted educational needs that prompted the hospital’s interest in CHAMPS National! A follow-up survey is currently underway to assess progress.

Melissa Robey, MD, FAAFP, NABBLM-C, IBCLC, Family Physician, and CHAMPS National Team Lead shares: “Breastfeeding is often not easy, but always worth the effort! Getting families off to the best start can make a tremendous difference in their self-efficacy, motivation, and journey to achieving their breastfeeding goals.”

Congratulations, Hilo Benioff Medical Center! We look forward to continuing our partnership with your dedicated team.