Kim:  Thanks for your email on hospital policy.  I am well aware of the
altruistic nature of most nurses and medical personnel; however, I do a
substantial amount of research on health care delivery (particularly
women's health) and know that much of the 'advances' advertised by
hospitals (particularly large proprietary multi-hospital chains in urban
areas) are to compete for market share of INSURED patients.  The health
services research literature is full of examples of this.  I'd be happy to
send you articles on this, including my own.  Internal memos within
organizations also illustrate this perspective of many hospital and hc
chain administrators.   Please don't down-play the fact that health care is
big business (over 14% of our GNP) and there's fierce competition compared
to years past.  It is unfortunate, but true that in some areas lactation
services recently have been eliminated in because more profitable
cost-centers can bring in wealthy patients with full-insurance.  Lactation
is viewed by these hospitals as an "optional" service that would be "nice"
to provide, but certainly not essential since they don't directly see any
financial gain from it!  This is a direct quote from a local hospital CEO
(to remain unnamed, but I can produce documentation).
RespectfuLLLy,
Chris

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: )Chris Hafner-Eaton, PhD, MPH, CHES, IBCLC  email: [log in to unmask]  : )
: )HSR & Health Educational Consultant        voice/fax: 541 753 7340   : )
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