I'm a new private practice IBCLC and I just need some simple help.  I've gone over the posts about WIC, formula, ethics, kickbacks, etc, etc, etc.  What I thought was a straightforward business arrangement now has me scratching my head and wondering if I shouldn't be engaging...

Short version - I've been approached by a woman who provides a service to parents and parents-to-be that includes everything from completing their registry, planning a baby shower, hiring an LC/baby nurse/personal chef, etc.  It's kind of like hiring a wedding planner  - except she does it for parents regarding birth/babies. The client pays her an amount, she takes an amount off the top (a *finders fee*) and then she pays the provider.

So... Now I'm wondering if this is a type of kickback - that I'd be providing her a fee for sending me a client.  But at the same time, I see this as akin to an advertising fee - she's advertising for me.  

I want to do this to help grow my business, but I also want to make sure I'm acting withing the scope of ethical boundaries.

HELP!!!!!
Jillian Malan, LLLL, IBCLC
Michigan

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