Professor of Perinatal Nursing and Helen M. Shearer Term Professor of Nutrition
Nurse Researcher, Director, Lactation Program
Director, Mothers’ Milk Bank, The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (secondary appointment)

The provision of human milk and breastfeeding ensures optimal health and developmental outcomes for children, yet less than 20% of infants in the United States are exclusively breastfed for 6 months.  Many women are at high risk for not breastfeeding due to a lack of exposure to and education on breastfeeding. Diane Spatz has created models of research, education, and clinical practice that have improved outcomes in the field of human milk and breastfeeding.

Through the Breastfeeding Resource Nurse model that she developed at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and her 10 Step Model to Promote & Protect Human Milk and Breastfeeding in Vulnerable Infants, Dr. Spatz is making a difference in the lives of mothers and infants worldwide. The Breastfeeding Resource Nurse model is an evidence-based training program in lactation support and care. The 10-step model for human milk and breastfeeding in vulnerable infants helps clinicians and mothers make an informed choice about why human milk is a medical intervention, and then provides skilled and comprehensive breastfeeding support to mothers who choose to breastfeed. CHOP and other hospitals in the U.S. and worldwide, including in India, Thailand, and the United Kingdom, use the 10-step model.

“Human milk is a life-saving intervention. My model helps mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals, making a difference in the lives of women and babies every day.”

Education

  • PhD, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing , 1995
  • MSN, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing , 1989
  • BSN, University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing , 1986