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You Asked, We Answered

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an IBCLC?

An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is an allied health professional who specializes in lactation and the nursing dyad (pair). 

We are required to take numerous health science courses, many hours of lactation education, and pass a board exam.  Here are some reasons someone might need or want to see an IBCLC.

Are consults covered by insurance?

Yes and no.  If you have private insurance, Brea will attempt to get your visits covered in-network and potentially at no out-of-pocket cost to you.

According to the Affordable Care Act, all of these must be covered 100% without a copay.  But, in Indiana and almost every other state, there are loopholes that allow insurance companies to deny reimbursement. Brea will provide you with a superbill to seek reimbursement if her fees are not covered up front.

Can I pay with my HSA card?

Absolutely!  I take cash, check, credit card, or HSA card.

What are your fees?

This is a little difficult to answer because it varies according to your insurance and other factors.  Please call or email Brea for an estimate of your out-of-pocket costs.

How far do you travel?

For home visits, I serve the following Indiana counties:

  • Benton

  • Boone

  • Clinton

  • Carroll

  • Fountain

  • Montgomery

  • Tippecanoe

  • Warren

  • White

I currently travel up to 25 miles from my office in West Lafayette at no charge.  For distances than 25 -50 miles, add $1/mile and please contact us to discuss.

What if I'm more than 50 miles from you?

Call to schedule a video consult!  Alternatively, you can find and IBCLC near you by searching the ILCA database, or contacting your nearest La Leche League or Breastfeeding USA group for their recommendations.  If you still would like to see me in person, please contact me so we can discuss options.

How does an IBCLC differ from other breastfeeding support?

IBCLC is the only board certification in lactation support.  We spend years qualifying to sit a comprehensive exam.  When breastfeeding or lactation is complicated or truly not going well, an IBCLC is the best allied health professional to address breastfeeding specifically and coordinate care between various medical professionals.

Other breastfeeding support certainly has its place, though! La Leche League and similar peer lactation supporters, groups, and meetings are fantastic sources of moral support and information during the normal course of breastfeeding.  If you need more one-on-one support, have significant challenges, or are feeling like you can't get your medical providers on the same page, an IBCLC is up to the job.

In short, as a La Leche League Leader and volunteer lactation support person, I am a very well-informed mother.  As an IBCLC I am a clinical professional who travels with rubber gloves, takes medical histories, and sends reports to physicians.

I do suggest all my clients find a breastfeeding support group - at a local hospital, on Facebook, or through La Leche League or Breastfeeding USA. Hearing from other parents who are currently or have recently been where you are is invaluable!

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