I did an exhibit today at the Maternity Fair that is sponsored by our  Health 
Dept and the local Infant Mortality Task Force, along with our local  
hospital ( who has sent in the application to become Baby Friendly). Two doctor  
offices ( one is an affiliate office of the Medical school) showed up with case  
of formula and all kinds of formula marketing gimmicks. The health promotion  
educator immediately sent someone to "sit on top of me" and explain that she  
couldn't prohibit them from bringing in formula. When I ( very politely and  
quietly which is sometimes a stretch for me) asked why she couldn't adhere to  
the Code, she said that they had been told by the Government Institute that a  
governmental agency such as the health department cannot restrict the 
marketing  of formula. There were several breastfeeding exhibits and we were all 
appalled  at this vulgar display of formula ( huge stacks of formula, posters, pens 
and  notepads, carrying cases, etc). So why is health departments exempt from 
the  Code? The health educator said that if a formula company showed up, she 
would  have to accommodate them. What do other health departments do?

Barbara Whitehead, BS, IBCLC, RLC
eastern NC

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