I believe IBCLCs are health professionals.  They are a part of the health 
care team, have passed certification exams, keep up with what's new and 
happening to improve BF outcomes.  I agree that an LC is different from a 
LLLL and/or a peer counselor.  The difference is the same as in any field, 
with   more experience and education you advance.

The one area that causes confusion is the lack of formal education to become 
an LC (but we've had the same confusion in nursing for umpteen years - 2yr, 
3 yr, BSNs and so on). But I don't think the patterns followed by other 
health professionals  (formal courses for RN or MD) bear repeating because 
they have lost breastfeeding along the way.  LCs are really unique and we 
need to preserve our uniqueness.

Considering that the profession is 25 + years I think we've come a long way, 
but at the same time I realize we have a way to go.

Pat in SNJ 

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

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