Milk for Critical Need
The Milk for Critical Need program is designated for babies who have a serious medical need and are being cared for outside of the hospital. NWMMB has served many families who have infants with complex medical conditions. We work to improve access to a safe source of donor milk when a baby needs it the most.
Who is eligible for Milk for Critical Need?
Reasons for medically indicated use of donor milk may include, but are not limited to:
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Digestive disorders (like malabsorption or short-gut syndrome)
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Heart or kidney disease
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Post-surgical recovery
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Immune or metabolic disorders
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Growth and weight faltering
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Waiting for an organ transplant
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Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (babies withdrawing from substances)
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Severe formula intolerance (must have tried at least three types, including hypoallergenic formulas)
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Special circumstances (HIV+ birth parent, maternal cancer, or maternal death)
There are some critical medical conditions for which pasteurized donor milk may provide therapeutic benefits for your baby. NWMMB can often help by partnering with your baby’s healthcare provider or dietician to help develop a feeding plan which includes donor milk for a short period of time.
A healthcare provider’s prescription with documented medical diagnosis, chart notes, and a Statement of Medical Necessity are required to access donor milk for a baby with a critical medical condition.
Milk is provided in limited amounts and is based on supply. Please call NWMMB at 800-204-4444.
The processing fee for donor milk is $5.00 per ounce. This fee covers all of the important steps to assure the donated milk is safe for your baby. A financial assistance program for families experiencing financial hardship and have a critically ill baby is available in a limited capacity. More information about eligibility can be found here.