I've just been reading an (admittedly old- 1983) text for pediatricians in Papua New Guinea but I thought some of you might be interested in how it can be. 
Karleen Gribble
Australia


Infant Feeding: Bottles
In PNG feeding bottles, teats and dummies can only be obtained from a chemist with authorisation from a Dr, HEO, nurse or nurses aid.

If a mother asks for an authorisation for a feeding bottle: 
1. See if it is possible for her to breastfeed the baby (see lactation induction (for adoptive mothers))
2. If breastfeeding is not possible, advise her to use a cup or cup and spoon.
3. If she refuses to use a cup and spoon advise her to go to a private practitioner if there is one available and you are too busy to instruct her on how to make up milk correctly adn hygenically.
4. If you do give the mother an authorisation, be sure to follow the instructions set out in the act. You can be fined if you do not.

Baby Feed Supplies Act 1977

The purpose of this act is to safeguard the health of babies by promoting breastfeeding. It aims at discouraging artifical feeding and discourages the use of feeding bottles, teats and dummies.

Whenever possible babies should be breastfed.
If breastfeeding is not possible, the mother or guardian must be taught to make up the milk in the correct strength and hygenic conditions. The act aims at ensuring that this happens.

Under this act
1. Feeding bottles, teats and dummies can only be obtained from a pharmicist.
2. The mother or guardian must produce an authorisation to buy a feeding bottle, teat or dummy.
3. Only a medical practitioner can write an authorisation.
4. Before writing an authorisation the health workers must do the following.
a) satisfy himself that it is in the baby's interests.
b) instruct the mother or guardian how to clean the bottles properly.
c) instruct the mother to keep the milk in a refridgerator if it is not immediately used
d) instruct the mother or guardian how to mix the milk in the correct strength.
5. The authorisation can only be given to the mother or guardian.

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