The Washington State Department of Health recently designated MultiCare Yakima Memorial Hospital as a Center of Excellence for Perinatal Substance Use, highlighting its leadership in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to pregnant and postpartum patients with substance use disorders. The designation reflects the hospital’s commitment to improving outcomes for both parents and infants through evidence-based, family-centered care.
Centers of Excellence follow a set of best practices that prioritize early screening, coordinated care and supportive treatment approaches, including rooming-in, breastfeeding support and non-pharmacological interventions for infants experiencing withdrawal. The program also emphasizes provider education and clear, respectful communication with families.
This recognition underscores MultiCare Yakima’s dedication to equitable care and its role in advancing healthier starts for families across Central Washington. (Trish Anderson)