IBLCE has once again changed requirements to sit for the exam. This time, however, they've done it no communication and no grandfathering. I wanted to write a note to make sure that other potential candidates were aware of these changes.

As most of you know, the requirements to sit for the IBCLC exam were increased in 2010. However, the requirements only applied to candidates taking the exam in 2012 and forward. Presumably, all candidates already preparing were grandfathered into the prior requirements.

IBLCE posted a document of General Education guidelines to their site in August 2011 detailing which types of course would and would not qualify. 3 weeks ago on November 20, 2012, they published a revised version. There was no announcement of this change and not even a blurb on their site indicating that the requirements have been revised. You would never know unless you specifically went in to double check everything. The two significant changes were that the list of health professionals who do not have to take the 8 college-level classes has been trimmed. Psychologists, social workers, chiropractors and social workers have been struck from the list. As well, a one-semester Human Biology class will now not fulfill the requirements for anatomy and physiology. In the prior version of the document, it specifically said this WOULD satisfy both requirements.

I have no issues with IBLCE tweaking their requirements over time. What I do take issue with is the lack of communication and the lack of grandfathering. Applications for the 2013 are already available and being accepted. A number of candidates have already contacted IBLCE with concerns about these changes. We were told that our concerns would be considered by the Certification Committee which should be meeting in mid to late January. We should contact them in February for more information. Since applications are due by March 31, that is not an acceptable option.

Does anyone have any idea who might serve on the IBLCE Certification Committee and contact information for any of them? Needless to say, many people are quite distressed on learning of these rule changes in the proverbial 11th hour. I know there have been some frustration with IBLCE procedures in the past and I wanted to make sure people were aware of this.

Dana Lauducci
LLLL, NJ

             ***********************************************

Archives: http://community.lsoft.com/archives/LACTNET.html
To reach list owners: [log in to unmask]
Mail all list management commands to: [log in to unmask]
COMMANDS:
1. To temporarily stop your subscription write in the body of an email: set lactnet nomail
2. To start it again: set lactnet mail
3. To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet
4. To get a comprehensive list of rules and directions: get lactnet welcome