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Subject:
From:
"Debi Page Ferrarello, RN, IBCLC" <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 22 Jun 1998 21:12:24 EDT
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Dearest Lactnetters-
     It is so evident from the posts of the past week that we ourselves are
struggling with the most basic issues of our profession.  The dialogue is
good; it is necessary to sort things out.  Let us remember that we are all in
this together and need each other.  LCs need BF volunteers.  Private practice
LCs build on the start that hospital LCs give to new families.  Our roles are
complementary, and when we all embrace one another, everyone benefits.
     I believe that to be a *professional*  lactation consultant, the IBCLE
must be taken.  However, I also believe that the standards for taking the exam
need to be raised.  The biggest gap I see is in supervised clinical hours.  We
should require internships, as well as coursework in all of the various
aspects of the profession.  Chris Mulford so eloquently explained the need for
comprehensive education in all aspects of our chosen profession.  The
internship will provide the hands-on, eyes-on, modeling experience that is,
IMHO, imperative.
     Once we change the educational and experiential requirements, will all
IBCLCs be wonderful practitioners?  Of course not.  I agree with those who
remind us that sitting medical boards does not make a good doctor.  But good
doctors (nurses, therapists, etc), get a good reputation.  People seek out
their expertise.  How do YOU choose a  health care provider?  (Or a mechanic,
hair stylist, plumber?)  You probably ask the advice of someone you trust.  I
recognize that not all physicians  are good doctors, but I wouldn't take my
family to one who hadn't even taken the boards (or had some supervised hands-
on experience).  Become an excellent practitioner and you will have clients.
    Unfortunately, we will probably also need a disciplinary board at some
point to help insure that practitioners who do not follow the standards of
practice are no longer IBCLC.
    Where does this leave the breastfeeding support volunteers who want to
learn all they can about breastfeeding but do not want to become breastfeeding
professionals?  Welcome.  Welcome to provide support, guidance, and referrals
to professionals when needed.  Our roles mesh beautifully together.  There is
no threat here.

-Debi Page Ferrarello, RN, IBCLC
Abington, PA

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