Evaluating implementation of a baby friendly hospital initiative.

Purpose: The study evaluates the implementation of a United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)/WHO Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in a large urban hospital in New York City that serves primarily poor, minority women.

Study Design And Methods: A descriptive qualitative evaluation study that included focus groups, key informant interviews, and observations of the clinical environment was conducted using a community-based participatory research approach with healthcare providers.

Results: Findings revealed strengths and challenges in the implementation process at the system, provider, and patient levels.