Something about this survey for non-IBCLCs in having a lesser certification 
rings a bell with me. I have been thinking about this and can not remember 
exactly when BUT, this same issue came up about a year ago. They also asked 
about having a higher, special, credential for IBCLC. Only the survey then 
was IBCLC oriented and recruited.

I feel like there are lots of lesser certifications, such as breastfeeding 
educator, already. I don't see how adding one more will give our profession 
value. The general public sees all these lesser certifications as the same 
as IBCLC anyway.

As far as the debate on accredited lay BF helpers becoming IBCLC vs. RNs, it 
all depends on the person. I have seen some of the "best" IBCLCs come out of 
LLLI, but these were the women who aimed for excellence. It all depends on 
the IBCLCs heart and if she is striving to serve her clients in the best 
manner possible, or if this work is just a way to make money or to serve her 
own interests first.

I am not seeing the excellence in newer IBCLCs that I equate with some of 
our IBCLCs who started out 15-20 years ago. And I have had way too many 
mothers question me (or show strong doubt) on the value of an IBCLC in the 
last two years. Maybe I just see this in the lens of the now, maybe we had 
poorly skilled and unprofessional IBCLCs all along. Maybe because it has 
affected me financially, I see it more clearly than when I was a new Leader 
13 years ago.

Kathy Eng, BSW, IBCLC 

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