All of you out there in "Lactationland".   I am a board member of Florida
Perinatal Association that has take on a formidable task to establish state
practice parameters for infant feeding. This goal is one of several for our
organization for the next 2 years (we have been the impetus behind 2
legislative actions to change state policy such as "short stay legislation"
and beta-strep practice parameters this year). Now while I realize we won't
get the sweeping endorsement that these other mat/child issues
demonstrated, but we are going to be setting some precedents, and get
lactation and LCs "out of the closet" so to speak, so I am making an open
appeal: (we meet monday 10/21)

 I have a basic format designed after Wellstart/BFHI/HMHB but this is your
chance to impact a state that will go on record (we hope) to set human milk
and breastfeeding as the gold standard. Every community, local state or
national can make an impact on the future of breastfeeding everywhere. I
want to make sure our task force doesn't leave anything out!

 I ask for YOUR INPUT !!!!! If you could have your 3 wishes come true what
would you ask of the breastfeeding fairy/angel?

What guidelines would you set up to insure the best prenatal practice to
assist the new pt prior to her arrival at the hospital?

What care path would you follow to insure the best start after delivery? ie
"Baby Friendly" we know already this one is a tough one...

What guidelines would you follow for the first year of life and beyond?

If you post any statements you would like to see in the ideal "BEST PRACTICE"
please accompanyb it with at least one "mainstream medical journal"
citation/research. I was forwarned that non-mainstream citations would not
be considered valid without at least one "accepted journal abstract"

The idea I had was that a few hardworking folks in Florida can't possibly
cover all the bases and where else could I get input from 1100 of my
closest friends and colleagues but on this forum.....God Bless Lactnet!

I will take posts at any time as this is a work group that may last several
years in development HOWEVER, the state health office plans to submit a
draft in the november legislative session.....thanks in advance

Ruthy Wilson RN BSN IBCLC
Fla Perinatal Association
Health First Cape Canaveral Hospital
Newborn Nursery
Cocoa Beach, FL 32931


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