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New Mamava Lactation Pod: A Haven for Nursing Moms

The Executive Leadership Team, along with the Innovation Specialist and representatives from the Women Veterans Program, gathered for a photo.
The Executive Leadership Team alongside the dedicated project leaders gathered for a photo before cutting the ceremonial ribbon. Pictured from left to right, Stephen Dotts, Associate Director of Operations; Brian Dyer, Assistant Director; Jennifer Rossi, Innovation Specialist; Wende Dottor, Executive Health System Director; Chanese Robinson, Women Veterans Program Assistant; Katriana Durakovich, Student Work Study; Ilona Schmalfuss, Chief of Staff; and Chad Adams, Deputy Executive Health System Director.

By Katie Butler, Public Affairs Specialist

The North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System (NF/SGVHS) is thrilled to announce the launch of a new Mamava Lactation Pod at the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center (Malcom Randall VAMC), located at 1601 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608.

As the fastest-growing population of VA users nationwide, women Veterans play a crucial role in our community. At NF/SGVHS, we take pride in serving over 22,000 women Veterans, and we are dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of those we care for. The introduction of the Mamava Lactation Pod marks a significant advancement in our commitment to supporting breastfeeding mothers. 

The Mamava Lactation Pod is a thoughtfully designed, freestanding unit that provides a comfortable and private space for breastfeeding or pumping. This pod will offer breastfeeding parents a dignified and cozy environment, whether they are at work or on the go. Every Veteran deserves access to facilities that accommodate their needs, and the Mamava Lactation Pod is an important step toward achieving that goal.

The pod is available for free use and can be unlocked using the Mamava mobile app. Once inside the handicap-accessible pod, users can lock the door for privacy, and enjoy features including comfortable seating, power outlets, and lighting. The free Mamava app also helps parents locate thousands of lactation spaces and encourages users to share uplifting “Words of Support” notes with fellow breastfeeding parents.

You can find the lactation pod at the Malcom Randall VAMC conveniently located on the first floor, in the alcove outside the clinic space that encompasses Gynecology and Mammography services. 

We are thrilled to offer this invaluable resource to women Veterans and are eager to broaden our support for breastfeeding mothers in the future at additional locations within the NF/SGVHS.

For more information on the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center, please visit https://www.va.gov/north-florida-health-care/locations/malcom-randall-department-of-veterans-affairs-medical-center/.