In a message dated 5/9/00 4:27:54 PM Central Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

<< Wouldn't it be nice if we could give supportive docs an award - maybe a
 certificate tto hang in their waiting rooms? ...and then we could do a
 nice presentation with media coverage, they would get good publicity, bf
 would get a boost...sort of a mini Baby Friendly thing...
 What do you all think? Who would sponsor it? >>

Our breastfeeding coalition is working on giving out awards to BF friendly
clinics, employers, churces, and daycare centers.  Our local WIC folks have
been the drive behind the coalition, but all the local hospitals, LLL, a few
docs and a few employers are participating as well.  Thanks to our WIC folks,
it is a *great* time to be a breastfeeding advocate in Mississippi (and we
aren't 50th in the country anymore, either!)

In areas where there are lots of HMOs (not here) docs can give themselves a
bonus by promoting breastfeeding.  Under most capitation plans they get paid
$x per enrolled patient per month, whether they see them or not.  Bf patients
don't need as many visits, so the doc can handle more patients (and earn
more) or work fewer hours (at a more relaxed pace).

Elaine Ziska
Jackson, MS

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