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Susan Nachman-Srebrnik, LC
Lactation Consultant
23 Nativ Halamed-Hey
Ranana 43340
Israel
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
Fax:(972)-3-566-1914
Phone:(972)-9-771-8274
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Every profession has its share of bad apples.  It is unreasonable to assume that LCs
are immune from unprofessional behavior - although I like to think that our track
record for being a dedicated and ethical bunch is above average!  It's necessary to
differentiate between personality conflicts and ethical behavior.  There are going
to be doctors, nurses and lactation consultants who are not the nicest human beings.
Some patients will put up with a health professional's lack of bedside manner
because he/she is so knowledgeable.  I just can't bring myself to recommend anyone
that is not a "mensch" (human being.)  The consumer is free to choose an LC the same
way she would a doctor or dentist.  If she feels the LC is cold, over-zelous,
cynical etc., she's free to go elsewhere.  If the LC is working at a hospital or
clinic, patients and/or staff have the right to take the matter up with her
superiors.

Now, unethical behavior is something else.  All LCs, especially those belonging to
an organization such as ILCA, should have to adhere to the rules.  Taking bribes
from formula companies, drug/alcohol abuse, theft, breaking patient/client
confidentiality, poor hygienic practices... should be grounds for disciplinary
action.  I can't think of too many medical organizations that don't have a peer
ethics committee.  Nobody likes a whistle blower, but if this is a matter of ethics
(and not just clashing with her style of doing things), I'd contact ILCA for advice.

Susan in Ranana, Israel