I understand that there is work being done at the national level (US) formulating a DRG-type designation for outpatient services. It is to be ready for use in early 1997. It seems to me that those of us who are providing lactation support and services in an institutional setting would do well to figure out how to get such a designation for LACTATION SUPPORT AND SERVICES. To survive we must be integrated into the system. Having an ambulatory DRG type code would certainly be a strong step toward routine acceptance and reimbursement. Who is knowledgeable in all of this? How do we learn more about it? I have requested information from medical records at my hospital and expect a packet of info in the next few days. However, it probably will not be as complete as desired since they are just being introduced to the idea too. They will have to learn new coding. Who do we contact to encourage the inclusion of lactation support and services? Now is the time to act. With all of the knowledge and political know-how among us lactnet folks, surely we will be able to take advantage of this opportunity. Pardee Hinson, MPH, IBCLC Charlotte, NC [log in to unmask] (704)543-2241 Mercy Lactation Support Center