Hello Netters,
 
Jim Hughes is Medela's Corporate Lactation Manager.  I would like to post a
message from him.

Seven years ago, Medela developed and introduced the Sanvita Program, an
innovative corporate lactation initiative designed to meet the needs of
breastfeeding working mothers while at the same time appealing to companies
looking for bottom-line-friendly work and family programs.

Over the last 7 years, the Sanvita Program has gone through numerous
changes including Medela's sub-contracting with lactation consultants for
the delivery of telephonic and /or in-person breastfeeding counseling.

Effective January 1, 1999, Medela will no longer subcontract with lactation
consultants to provide lactation services in corporations.  Instead, we
encourage breastfeeding experts to contract directly with companies on
their own.  Medela will continue to supply breastpumps and products for
corporate lactation efforts, but we will no longer function as the "middle
man" in providing lactation services.

Even though it is time for Medela to discontinue our operation of Sanvita
Programs, we continue to recognize the importance of corporations offering
lactation support to their employees and want to see lactation programs
continue.  To that end, we have introduced DCC/The Dependent Care
Connection, Inc. as one option to companies currently administered by
Sanvita Programs.

For clarification, DCC did not take over or purchase Sanvita, nor are they
an exclusive distributor of Medela products.  They simply offer a new
lactation program corporations may be interested in.  Companies can choose
any of the following scenario's:
1.  Work with their current lactation consultants on an independent basis.
2.  Ask their lactation consultant to work with them through DCC's central
administration.
3.  Purchase DCC's M@W (Mother at Work) program.
4.  contract with other medical service providers.

Meeting the needs of working women is one of our largest lactation
challenges in the USA.  Medela encourages lactation consultants in helping
employed women continue to breastfeed.  This is a huge opportunity for
everyone.

If there are any additional questions, please feel free to contact me
directly @ (800) 435-8316, ext. 583 and I will be happy to discuss this
issue with you directly.

Best Regards, 
James F. Hughes
Corporate Accounts Manager
Medela, Inc.

PS.  I am still managing the Medela program and presently have 4 Medela
employees pumping faithfully at work, 3 sales reps. pumping throughout
their travels, and 3 mothers pregnant, planning to breastfeed.  They are
fun to work with. Their employee benefits are a pump, 1hr lunch break and
two, 15min. additional breaks, all paid for.  Have a good week everyone.  
Pat Bull, RN, IBCLC
The Breastfeeding Connection/ Medela, Inc.
Naperville, IL