I am new to Lactnet and have been very interested in the discussion re: LC
training/mentoring.  I spent 6 years as a staff nurse in Seattle's primary
pediatric hospital's NICU, a position which evolved into a LC (or should I
say breastfeeding counselor?) role after I took lactation coursework
offered by another hospital. My LC duties were performed simultaneously
wiith my staff RN job (thus there was no additional recognition nor
compensation).  I thoroughly enjoyed what I did and in fact was asked to
develop a lactation service for the hospital (yes, I was disappointed that
there wasn't one already in existence at a highly reputable facility
serving a four state area!!) Things did not work out, unfortunately, as my
family and I relocated rather suddenly to a small community in western WA
where there is a crying need for breastfeeding services! Now I am a SAH Mom
expecting our 3rd baby in 7 weeks.  I have breastfed for a total of 53
months and will extend that number soon.=)  There is one IBCLC is the
entire COUNTY with whom I have joined forces to try and meet some of the
community's needs.  We serve on the county BF task force and are in process
of getting the word out about our services. SLOW going at best esp w/
regard to insurance and billing!  The local hospital is resistant to any
formal program being established there and freely dispenses AIM.  BF rates
in the area are rather dismal with an incredible amt. of misinformation
being distributed. I am not yet an IBCLC because as I understand the
qualifications, I do not have enough hours to sit for the exam.  After
reading these posts, I wonder if I am more properly titled a BF "counselor"
rather than an LC.  I am, like others, wanting to put in my time and do the
job right, not be just a 'wannabe' or 'ersatz' LC. It seems somewhat like a
catch-22 situation for me at this point. I am considering asking my
business partner if she would mentor me rather than having us be full
partners.  The liability issue is also a real one.  Sorry to ramble, but
this thread has raised lots of thoughts.

Ann Marie
>Peace<