One possible counter-measure to being undercut in this cynical and dishonest
way would be to contact a features reporter at the biggest newspaper in your
area about doing a feature story.  During the interview, mention over and
over that you are the only qualified professional offering service in the
area, that you are the only International Board Certified Lactation
Consultant in the area, that some offices claim to offer lactation
consulting but do not, as they do not have the qualifications to do so, and
that consumers should beware of fraudulent claims.  Talk about the extensive
preparation of an IBCLC, your specialized experience and education, and so
on.  Mention that one way consumers can tell if they are in an office with
some knowledge of bf would be to make sure there is no formula advertising
or literature and no formula "gift" bags in the office, and that any
emergency formula is kept out of sight.

I wouldn't say anything about having been forced out of your previous
position.  I would not mention any competitors by name.

Please give it your best shot.  I hate for people to be rewarded for unfair
business practices; more particularly, it does everyone--babies, moms,
IBCLCs, and society--a disservice when the profession is misrepresented by
the unqualified.  Imagine if anyone who wanted to, called themselves a
medical doctor, rented an office and took out an ad promising medical care.
No one would know whom to trust.

Arly Helm, MS, IBCLC

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