Franciscan Health Family Birth Centers in Indiana have been recognized for their commitment to infant and maternal health. The recognition was announced at the fifth annual INspire Hospital of Distinction program, organized by the Indiana Hospital Association (IHA) in collaboration with State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver, M.D., FACEP.
The INspire initiative, supported by the Indiana Department of Health’s Safety PIN grant, aims to implement best practice care for mothers and babies in Indiana. It acknowledges hospitals that excel in addressing critical factors affecting infant and maternal health.
Several Franciscan Health centers, including those in Dyer, Crown Point, Indianapolis, Michigan City, and Mooresville, received the INspire Hospitals of Distinction recognition. These centers were honored for their adherence to best practices in areas such as infant safe sleep, breastfeeding support, managing perinatal substance use, addressing social determinants of health, handling obstetric hemorrhage, and managing maternal hypertension.
Dean Mazzoni, president and CEO of Franciscan Health Dyer, Michigan City and Munster expressed pride in their healthcare teams' accomplishments. "We are proud of our healthcare teams for once again being recognized for excellent care of moms and babies at our Franciscan hospitals across northwest Indiana," he said. He added that this acknowledgment reflects their dedication to patient care.
Angela Bratina from Franciscan Health Indiana highlighted the ongoing commitment to maternal and infant care. “Receiving this recognition represents the incredible hard work and dedicated care provided by our teams in Indianapolis and Mooresville,” she stated.
Dr. Daniel McCormick from Franciscan Health Crown Point praised his team’s efforts as well. He noted that their work aligns with continuing Christ's ministry within the Franciscan tradition. Dr. McCormick also mentioned a partnership with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago to provide NICU and pediatric care locally.
Additionally, Franciscan Health Lafayette East earned Center of Excellence recognition. Marcia Cherry from Lafayette East emphasized her team's exceptional care for mothers and infants.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Weaver commended all winners for their contributions to improving outcomes for mothers and babies across Indiana. She acknowledged the collaborative efforts between healthcare providers which have led to significant improvements.
For the first time since its inception, all birthing facilities in Indiana received one of two INspire recognitions this year—a milestone reflecting progress in maternal and infant health initiatives statewide.
Scott B. Tittle from IHA lauded Dr. Weaver's leadership while celebrating Hoosier facilities' achievements over five years since launching INspire: "Together we are truly making a difference."
The IHA serves over 170 hospitals throughout Indiana offering various specialized services including acute care facilities.