Kathleen, great update!  Very frustrating for you all round, but it looks
like you have covered everything.  You ask whether anyone charges for phone
follow-ups, bearing in mind that you are often used as the Last Resort and
you talk to clients each day until things go well.

Yes, I definitely do charge for phone follow-ups.  And for each one that I
consider offers something useful to the client (assessment of how things are
going, interpretation for the client of whether she is on the right track,
modification of care plan as the situation improves, encouragement etc.)
These follow-ups can take several hours of my time each day, and save the
client time, effort and $$ coming in to my office (or another home visit).
I know many LCs do *not* charge for phone follow-ups, but I couldn't
function effectively (and would begin to resent the time this takes) if I
didn't.  If I hear something on the phone that is unexpected, or if progress
doesn't occur within the time-limit that I think it should then I suggest
another face to face consult.  I will be interested to hear others' replies,
and your next update.  Best wishes, it sounds tough!

Pamela Morrison IBCLC, Zimbabwe