I had an interesting viewpoint given to me by a physician we were
approaching about getting IBCLCs reimbursed via health insurance (this is a
US issue, so those of you not of the US may find it boring)...

When we discussed reimbursement for "International Board Certified Lactation
Consultants" he indicated hesitation - and after further discussion (open
ended questions...acceptance...etc...) we learned that the term "consultant"
in HIS view refers to physicians he "consults with" who are specialists in
their medical-related field - neurologists, radiologists, etc.  

He is more comfortable using the term "therapists" in regards to specialists
who address issues such as speech therapy, Physical therapy or occupational
therapy.

I know that in the 80's when the discussion was what to call us - there was
a deliberate moving away from that term "therapy" and thus the choice
"consultant".  I am not asking for us to be re-named at this late date -
however, we need to know what a barrier this CAN be for us - and work on
ways to address it rather than a "get over it" attitude which will not win
us friends or influence!

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, RN, PHN, IBCLC
California, USA

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