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Subject:
From:
"Linda J. Smith" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 14 Dec 1998 13:17:04 -0500
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Marie and Barbara have brought up issues that have been discussed at length
in many forums, but I want to clarifiy this ONE MORE TIME. Peer counselors,
LLL Leaders, and IBCLCs are NOT interchangeable. An IBCLC is certified to
do, and to know, things that are beyond the scope of practice and knowledge
of a peer counselor and LLL Leader.

Consider other models: Certified Childbirth Educators are not Doulas; Doulas
are not Midwives; and Midwives are not Obstetricians. All assist birthing
women, in different ways. Peer outreach workers are not Licensed Social
Workers. Licensed physical education teachers are not necessarily Certified
swim coaches, and vice versa.  Some childbirth educators also have doula
training. Some midwives were, or are, childbirth educators. Some RNs are
also doulas, childbirth educators, or midwives. Or lactation consultants,
LLL Leaders, and/or peer counselors. Or certified swim coaches.

One individual can wear several "hats" without implying that the
professions/occupations/scopes of practice are interchangeable. The JOBS are
not interchangeable. Institutions developing policies and staffing
guidelines must be absolutely clear about the differences in these roles,
for legal, ethical, and financial reasons. I'm all for cost-cutting, but I
sure wouldn't want a doula to be hired in place of a Certifed Nurse Midwife
and tasked with her duties!

It takes Peer counselors, IBCLCs, LLL Leaders, IBCLCs, RNs, RDs, MDs, and a
lot of others to properly support breastfeeding women. Knowing our
professional and personal limits is essential for EVERYONE. The roles are
NOT interchangeable.

Linda J. Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC
Bright Future Lactation Resource Centre
Dayton, OH USA
http://www.bflrc.com

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