I solve the conflict of interest of selling and renting things by 
charging wholesale 'cost' for devices (or throwing cheap ones in free 
with the visit). This way I do not have a profit motive in selling 
devices, and I explain this briefly at the consult. I also (briefly) 
show parents several options, so they can choose their price level 
(syringe and tube vs SNS vs Lact-Aid).

If I advise a mom to rent a pump, I will tell her brands and models that 
are best for her (giving her a choice between several good ones) and 
then tell her that she can rent from me (and give my prices) or 
somewhere else, but that the recommendation to rent is for her benefit.

I've had a hard time with hydrogels, most moms love them and the science 
behind moist wound healing is very good, but they are pretty expensive 
even at cost. Previously I gave them away, but I do have to make a 
living too. So I just started selling them if moms want them. I tell her 
most moms feel they relieve pain, and research shows they improve 
healing, she can buy certain brands at a drugstore, or she can buy mine 
if she wants.

I do want to have all the possible tools mom might need so I don't have 
to send her chasing for them, but I don't want to be a shill either!

Catherine Watson Genna, BS, IBCLC  NYC

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome