If an IBCLC working in a hospital advises all new moms to give formula to their babies as a “just in case” measure, what is the ethical process for addressing this malpractice?
It would be hoped that you can first address this issue locally and support this IBCLC to improve her clinical practice. If all local strategies don’t work, the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE) has a process for filing a complaint or concern regarding breaches of the Code of Ethics for IBCLCs and concerns with violations of the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes. You may report alleged violations to IBLCE. A complaint form for this process is available at www.iblce.org. Complaints cannot be anonymous; IBLCE requires that the person bringing the complaint identify themselves. Additionally, complaints of violations of the Code of Ethics must be based on first-hand knowledge. Complaints based on hearsay will not be reviewed. The Code of Ethics for IBCLCs is available at www.iblce.org.
