Presentation Information

Reclaiming the Infant Feeding Arena: Can Lactation Support be Rebranded as Healthy Infant Feeding Experts?

• Speaker: Danielle Rigg , JD, CLC
• Speaker: Bettina Forbes , CLC
• Presentation Type:
• Duration: 60 Mins
• Credits: 1 CERP, 1 Nursing CEU, 1 CME, 0.1 Midwifery CEU, 1 Dietetic CEU

Abstract:

New moms and babies are a unique dyad deserving of a specialists care, just like Cardiology for heart, Nephrology for Kidney, etc. Currently, the medical system, professionals and consumer regard the lactation expert as only being relevant for breastfeeding. Within this model, expecting and new mothers continue to face numerous barriers to getting quality lactation care. Repositioning and branding lactation experts as Healthy Infant Feeding Specialists irrespective of a moms ultimate decision to breastfeed, is essential. Whether a mom plans to breastfeed, pump or do neither, she needs a lactation expert to care for and guide her. Shifting the perception and rebranding lactation specialists as Healthy Infant Feeding Specialists will open the door to LC’s being included in the medical referral system and into the “Well-Baby” programs. Effective marketing strategies that shift the perception, build a more inclusive brand and put positive pressure on the system, will be discussed.