In a message dated 8/9/2004 9:21:09 PM Pacific Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
Do physicians really have the right to not allow an LC to see patients?
Do they own the patients?  I can't comprehend how a mother can be
excluded from a standard of care that the hospital follows because her
doctor is on an ego trip."
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Yes, physicians "own" the patients, in the sense that if I want a consult I
need to ask for one or have it in my standing orders.  No-one may consult on my
patients if I do not agree to it.

I have been in the postion that a mother of a premature infant is getting
ready to deliver, and a particular obstetrician does not want me to talk with the
family ahead of time (which we do to help families through the ordeal before
it happens for almost all patients).  I cannot talk with that patient because
she belongs to another physician.

Although this seems stupid on the surface, it is actually a safeguard for the
patients, as you cannot have 2 or more physicians writing orders on the chart
or caring for the patient without talking with one another.  One person has
to be in charge and responsible.

Nancy
Nancy E. Wight MD, IBCLC, FAAP, FABM
Neonatologist
Children's Hospital and Sharp Mary Birch Hospital for Women
Medical Director, Sharp HealthCare Lactation Services
San Diego, CA
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