This fully referenced position paper highlights the IBCLC credential as the only internationally recognized certified healthcare professional in the clinical management of breastfeeding. It describes the specialized knowledge and skill of healthcare professionals who hold the IBCLC credential. The paper states:
“International Board Certified Lactation Consultants are recognized worldwide as the only health care professional with a certification in breastfeeding and lactation management. The standardization of specialized knowledge and skill to attain this international certification justifies the significant impact of the IBCLC in any setting.”
“Role and Impact of the IBCLC” identifies the unique multi-role capability of an IBCLC as advocate, clinical expert, collaborator, educator, facilitator, investigator, policy consultant, professional, and promoter. It describes six key ways in which an IBCLC influences the care of breastfeeding mothers, infants, children, families, and communities. These areas of influence include lowering health costs as well as improving breastfeeding outcomes, consumer satisfaction, an institution’s image, consumer trust, and breastfeeding programs and policies. “Role and Impact of the IBCLC” supports the employment of IBCLCs to administrators and policy makers throughout the world.
For more details on the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE), click on the logo below.
