True, what you say Valerie, about some expectation.  But if the company
understands they get only recognition and a handshake for being so nice,
then this does not, as I read it, go against the WHO Code, and if that is
the case, then getting money from Nestle does not prevent a hospital from
getting Baby Friendly status.  As long as they pay for their formula (at
regular prices), as long as there is no access to patients for the company
(including advertising, free or reduced cost samples), we should take their
money.  In fact, take Nestle's money and then go to Ross, Wyeth, Mead
Johnson, Cow and Gate, and whomever, and say "Nestle's giving money,
shouldn't you?".

There is no perfect system.  Even if you get from government, your health
centre can be put under pressure to conform to certain norms which you as an
institution may not feel appropriate.  Even if you get money only from
patients' pockets or insurance companies, they both expect something, don't
they, and sometimes what they expect is more (and unreasonable) than just
excellent patient care.

It's a fine line to walk, but it can be done.  In fact, accepting Nestle's
money out front, will often prevent the "under the table" offers of money
which are, in many ways, worse.

Jack Newman, MD, FRCPC

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