Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies is a voluntary breastfeeding designation program that recognizes maternity centers in Ohio for taking steps to promote, protect and support breastfeeding in their organization.

Application – Take Your First Step

The Ohio First Steps for Healthy Babies program recognizes hospitals for implementing the Ten Steps, using a modified application form. Hospitals can earn up to five stars, earning one star to every two steps achieved. Hospitals can choose which steps to implement and in which order. Applications are accepted on a quarterly basis. Additional instructions for applying can be found here. Applications are reviewed by a team of local content experts.

All supporting documentation for applications can be sent to OhioFirstSteps@odh.ohio.gov

First Steps FAQ.

For hospitals applying for new steps:

Application Link

Printable Version

For hospitals renewing previously awarded steps:

Application Link

Printable Version

*If you are looking to apply for new steps as well as renew steps within a single review period, we would ask if you could please submit one application for the new steps and a separate application for the renewal steps. This assists our review team in processing your steps.

Summary of application modifications effective July 2020.

Father/Partner Designation (New as of August 2022)

This application is for hospitals seeking designation solely for the father/partner component of steps they have already been awarded. Hospitals cannot apply for this designation for steps they have not already been awarded through Ohio First Steps. Contact the team if you have any questions:

Application Link

Printable Version