<<Hospitals would allow me to come in if the doctor wrote a specific order using
my name. However in at least 2 hospitals, I was not allowed to touch the baby or
mother, and could not read or write in the charts. I was told that because I was
not on staff, there were legal issues involved. Proving I had liability
insurance etc. . . didn't help.>>

If I can add a late note (I have a HECK of a time keeping up with all this
mail!)--

I've been employed by a hospital for 4 years now, but was in private practice
for a while before that while we were lobbying to get my job created.  I was
able to come into the two hospitals in town, do regular LC stuff and write on
the chart by applying for and receiving privileges as an "allied health
professional."  It was done through the Office of Medical Staff Affairs and
consisted of filling out a form detailing my education, experience, credentials,
and liability insurance. They asked for a couple of references and the important
criteria was that I had a physician sponsor.  Apparently these privileges are
normally granted for RN's, etc. who are directly employed by physicians, but as
long as I had someone who would take "responsibility" for me, I qualified.  One
of the OB's who practiced at both hospitals sponsored me.  Perhaps there are
similar privileges you could apply for.  Good luck.

Becky Krumwiede
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