PROSERPINE Hospital has retained its coveted baby friendly accreditation, following a two-day audit by the Australian College of Midwives.

Midwifery manager Anne Eaton said this was the fourth time Proserpine Hospital had received accreditation, which remained current for three years.

"This is a world-recognised achievement and recognises that we meet standards set down by the United Nations Children's Fund and the World Health Organisation," Ms Eaton said.

A Baby Friendly facility is one where breastfeeding is supported and practices known to promote the health and well-being of babies and their mothers are followed

The audit examined the service and information provided to mothers from their ante natal visits through to home visits after the birth.

Proserpine and Mackay hospitals are among the 12 accredited baby friendly hospitals in Queensland.

Proserpine was the first rural hospital in Queensland to receive accreditation in 2003.

Ms Eaton said Whitsunday mothers benefited from the accreditation because they were being cared for by midwives with a recognised high level of knowledge and skills.

"Our accreditation demonstrates that the highest standard of care is offered to all mothers and babies. It also reflects the commitment of staff," she said.

"Our care is women-centred, not task-centre. Accreditation means that we have a high level of professional competence and that's something to be proud of."