Fortunately, I have never had a problem with a client, but I do take the following precautions: First, I ask who referred them. This is helpful both in realizing where I am getting business from, as well as validating the client a little. I have caller ID, and compare the name and number the caller gives me with the one that shows on the phone. If they are different, I will note the discrepancies in my phone log. (Usually the mom will spontaneously explain she is staying with her parents, living with her in laws, etc.) If the baby's father or grandparent calls, I congratulate them and then ask to speak to the mother. I speak to the mother a little while before making any committment to see her. Mostly it's to screen her and make sure she really needs help (they usually do, but some are worried about normal things, like baby wanting to feed more often than someone told them he should) but it also gives me an opportunity to feel her out. I then call back to confirm the appointment, either the next day, or when I am on my way (this confirms the telephone number). I also leave my appointment book at home, with everyone's name and address and phone number in it and the time I was due there. This way my family knows where I was. Each morning, I share my plans for the day with my husband. I also occasionally check in with him by phone, to let him know where I am and when I plan to be home. If something comes up at the last minute, I give him a quick call at work and tell him I am making a home visit, and where. If you know your neighborhoods well, you can also judge how safe the area is where the mom lives, and encourage her to come to your office, or bring an intern or colleague if it is not one you feel comfortable in alone. I have been in some interesting areas, in half finished houses, in homeless shelters in really poor neighborhoods, but have not had any dangerous situations, thank God. I do believe in following my instincts, and if someone were really off the wall or not genuine, I like to believe I would notice and take heed. I don't worry a lot about danger, but I do know that it is out there and try to take precautions. Maybe I'm just a paranoid New Yorker! -- Catherine Watson Genna, IBCLC New York City mailto:[log in to unmask] *********************************************** The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(TM) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html