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Lactation Information and Discussion

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Subject:
From:
Pierrette Mimi Poinsett MD <[log in to unmask]>
Reply To:
Lactation Information and Discussion <[log in to unmask]>
Date:
Mon, 21 Jul 1997 13:55:31 -0400
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The primary reason why I suscribe to Lactnet is so that I can obtain
information on breastfeeding, how to promote breastfeeding.  One of the
strengths about Lactnet is the fact that individuals from many disciplines
participate including peer counselors.  I believe the interaction is
fruitful, provided needed bridges between disciplines.

Unfortunately as an MD, I find it challenging to continually read posts
vilifying physicians.  Does it create value and bridges to continually vent
about MD's?  Yes many MD's do not have much nutrition in their medical school
training.  When I attended med school in the late 70's and early 80's, I was
successful in petitioning my school to start an elective course in nutrition
for med students.  I was also able to spend a year between my second and
third year studying nutrition including breastfeeding as a nutrition fellow.
 I did not obtain a degreee from this year, however I did learn valuable
information.  I continue to attend CME on nutrition, lactation and many other
issues to broaden and update my knowledge base.  I care for infants,
children,  adolescents  and young adults in my practice.  I have to stay up
to date on many issues, including child safety, learning problems, behavior
issues, chronic illness and many other psychosocial and medical issues.

One of the key things I learned throughout my career, was the value of
interdisciplinary teamwork.  I cannot expect to be the expect to be the
expert on everything.  The best care models I have been involved  in
encompassed professionals and paraprofessionals from a variety of professions
(RN's, LC's, RD's, community health workers, social workers as well as
physicians, midwives and other mid level health professionals).  Less energy
was spent on deciding what each participant did not know, rather encouraging
each participant to share their expertise.

I hope somehow we can discuss  more often how to strengthen relationships
between professions.  I know it is pretty frustrating working in many of our
environments.   There are so many issues re child health promotion, changing
health care environment that can just suck out all of one's energy.  I find
though that always being an adversary keeps me from being creative and
finding positive ways to affect change in my environment.

Just my thoughts,

Pierrette Mimi Poinsett MD, FAAP
Modesto CA

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