I'm finding the current Lactnet debate about paths to credentialing SO
counterproductive.   It feels, in fact, pretty close to down right bashing.
What's this about one group not wanting to refer to another group? The
breadth of knowledge and wisdom I see on Lactnet is remarkable and, guess
what, it doesn't seem to be limited to one group or one kind of background.
How about referring families to the person most able to help them?

If we want respect from other professions we better get our own house in
order.  I know our best hope lies in a formal educational program with set
requirements that all must meet. This would include classroom hours,
preceptorships, etc. and no wishy washy log of hours that can be met in many
different ways. Even then, however, there will be LC's who pass the test and
give bad advice.  Don't we all know doctors, nurses, dentists, teachers who
aren't doing such a bang up job?  Credentialing can't fix everything, but
standardizing our requirements and pathways can help.

I personally would like to see us cease and desist bashing each other and get
back to the compelling work of helping mothers solve breastfeeding problems.

Kathy Boggs, RN, IBCLC (leaving off several of my credentials because who the
heck cares)

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