Greetings! from a new Lactnet participant.  I am David Louder. I am a
board-certified neonatologist practicing at the US Air Force's largest medical
center, Wilford Hall in San Antonio, Texas.  I am director of well baby
services. Most importantly, I am father of Andrew, now just under 4 weeks. In
the last 6 months, he have initiated a breast feeding work group whose purpose
is to improve our breast feeding rates.  We are slowly trying to bend
institutional practices and our physical plant to achieve these goals.
   Some may know that the Dept of Defense is beginning to switch to a "managed
care" paradigm. I have a very specific question: how to calculate health care
costs associated with formula-feeding versus breast.  We all can discuss *the
benefits* of breastfeeding, or better yet *the disadvantages* of formula, but
how can I demonstrate a medical cost savings on a per patient basis?  My hope
is to cost justify further lactation support and equipment.
   TIA for replies.... Either NET or private.  For those likewise, I hope to
attend the TX LLL/WIC event next month here in San Antonio and the LLLI/AAP
Seminar in San Diego in July.

Dave Louder, MD
Director, Well Baby Services, Wilford Hall Medical Center
[log in to unmask]
phone (210) 670-6679  fax (210) 670-7933

P.S.  That WARM FEELING is not just limited to mothers and fathers, but
includes those taking care of newborns who are doing well!