I agree with all of the responses to this question. A couple other of my
responses:
1) Mandated short hospital stays. Moms milk is not even in and we are pushing
the pair out the door. This is detrimental, especially to first time moms who
have very little practical knowledge of breastfeeding these days and often
little knowledgeable support from family and friends. In most places there is
not a very good back up for these moms. Insurance companies should not have
the right to mandate this type of thing. More and more babies are being
readmitted for FTT and high bilis when if these moms had still been in the
hospital or home with breastfeeding support these problems could be avoided
and another hospitalization avoided. And, moms would not feel like they
failed (when in fact it is the system failing)
2. Lack of the importance placed on formal breastfeeding programs and support
for moms and families from the insurance companies and hospitals, even pedi
offices. This is showing some improvements but we need to be recognized as a
member of the health care team. We need reimbursement for our services.

Lisa Enger RN BSN IBCLC
Boston, MA

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