Valerie asked <<If the medical profession said that they cannot distance
themselves from the infant formula industry because we would run the risk of
developing less than optimal infant formula products, would we accept that
reasoning?>>

 

Yes, I would accept that reasoning. Payment for expert consultations on
product development is fair and reasonable. It's in everyone's best interest
to have the best possible formulas, pumps, knee braces, etc available to
people who have a legitimate need. It's fair for me, let's say, to consult
with Bloggins Company on product development of a new Widget to help
breastfeeding mothers. Especially if Bloggins Company is compliant with the
International Code. My veterinarian consults with a pet food company, and
I'm glad to know people of his caliber are working with the pet food company
to make the best possible puppy chow. He doesn't push the chow in his
practice - he merely makes it available to purchase (along with other
brands) as a good food for puppies. 

 

What I do NOT accept is the bribes and conflicts of interest that undermine
straight-up business transactions. It's NOT fair for me to take a "free"
plane trip from Bloggins to a conference with the unwritten but clearly
communicated expectation that I'll promote Bloggins Products more
aggressively. It's NOT fair for me to accept a "free" case of Widgets for my
family or my clients. Every dollar that Bloggins Company spends bribing me
is a dollar that the end-user - in this fictitious case, the mother - must
pay if she really does need the Widget. Just because I consult on a specific
product does NOT mean I'm willing to be come a salesperson for that product
forevermore. Bloggins has the legal and ethical responsibility to (1) make
good products, and (2) market them responsibly. Formula, pumps, and other
products are not in themselves evil - it's the MARKETING of these products
that can be ethical or unethical. The Code addresses the MARKETING of
formula, bottles, teats, etc. My veterinarian does not take pet food company
money for ski vacations. He - and I - are very choosy about which companies
we're willing to consult with or for. I do not enter into business
transactions with companies that do not meet my standards of ethical
marketing (or other factors).

 

If as a professional I really like the Widgets that Bloggins Company makes,
I must purchase them through normal channels just like I buy post-it notes,
pump parts, vinyl gloves and other business and clinical supplies. My vet
buys puppy chow - several brands - through normal purchasing channels for
sale in his clinic. 

 

Linda J. Smith, BSE, FACCE, IBCLC

Bright Future Lactation Resource Centre Ltd

6540 Cedarview Ct, Dayton OH 45459

ph 937-438-9458 www.BFLRC.com 

 


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