Hi, folks! I wanted to share some potentially good news with y'all concerning a
meeting I had with a new OB/FP today. I had posted last week about meeting him
at a reception for new docs and had asked for input from lactnetters on how you
work with docs and hospitals. (Thanks to those who replied, both here and
privately!) I went in armed with a notebook that had an introductory letter, an
outline of a comprehensive plan to increase bf rates here (that included such
things as bf classes, seeing moms during pregnancy and before they go home,
followup at home, inservice for staffs, and providing appropriate reading
material for the waiting room), a description of lactation services I can offer,
when to refer to an LC, sample checklist form for the consult, breast pump
rental info, bf class suggestions, inservice suggestions, a description of the
newsletter I write for bf moms (Moms & Babies), and my resume.

The doctor was most receptive and very congenial. He showed me the hospital
protocol for breastfeeding moms that includes a routine visit by an LC (which
they don't have). I showed him my comprehensive plan suggestions and his eyes
lit up. He called the lady in charge of coordinating the doctors' services with
the hospital and told her he was bringing someone to meet her. We walked over to
the hospital and had the most pleasant talk with this lady. The Dr. introduced
me to her and said that he had heard of me through the OB who has been there for
a while (who I periodically innundate with propaganda!) and essentially that I
was in the right place at the right time.

We talked just in general terms today, about possibly working as a prn employee
of the hospital or on contract (I have NO idea how that would differ), doing
much of what I was suggesting. As luck would have it, there was to be an OB
meeting with her and the 4 OBs at noon today and they promised to discuss how I
could fit into the grand scheme. She is supposed to get back with me in a week
or so, but suggested I call her if she doesn't get in touch with me first.

I walked out of there on cloud nine! Realistically, I have no idea how much they
will be willing to do at least for a while. They are delivering about 8-9 babies
a month through the end of the year, but really want to push patient education
and hope those numbers build. I don't know how baby friendly this hospital is
yet either, but perhaps since they are just gearing up I can have some input on
policies. The Doc suggested I inservice the nursing staff as well.

I just had to share this with 400 of my closest friends.... ;-)  Thanks for
listening!

Melissa Vickers, IBCLC
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NOTE: I have canned lactnet on my aol account and that address will not be good
past tomorrow. I am happily back on compuserve!