Updated: Virtual Lactation Consultations–Anywhere in the World!

This parent was able to show me their baby’s frenulum from afar.

Meeting with a terrific IBCLC (Lactation Consultant) in person can be a game-changing moment for a parent struggling with breastfeeding challenges. But what if there is no IBCLC in your area? Maybe you’ve had a less than helpful experience with your local lactation professional. Or perhaps you’re looking for a very specialized type of expertise. In all of these situations, a video conference may be perfect for you! With the advent of secure video conferencing platforms similar to Skype and Facetime, I can now see my clients and their babies from 1000’s of miles away!

Here’s what Dani had to say after a recent remote consultation with her and her baby who was refusing the breast:

“Renee was able to help our family tremendously even through cyberspace! She was very professional and respectful, I felt very comfortable– almost like she was in the same room with us. She also had great follow-up and support with our family. We were able to start exclusively nursing again after a several month break and other barriers in just a few days!”

If you like the idea of a remote consultation, here’s what you need know:

Consultations need to be scheduled in advance. I can usually schedule w/in 24-48 hours of your request. Be sure to let me know your time zone when you request an appointment!
Payment is collected in advance.
I use a HIPAA-compliant platform so you don’t have to worry about privacy. There are no recordings made during your session unless that’s something you agree to in advance.
Once your consultation is scheduled you will receive an invitation via email. You’ll be asked to download a small file so you can use the platform and we can see each other. This process is simple and takes less than a minute.
You will need to have high-speed internet to participate in a virtual consultation. A laptop, tablet or phone can be used as your camera. A helper to aim the camera can make things go smoothly. It can be helpful to have a separate login for your helper with a separate device.
Good lighting is essential—especially if I need to look into the baby’s mouth. Have a flashlight handy just in case.
If you’d like to bill your insurance company, you will be provided with a superbill and instructions for how to complete it. (In some situations I can bill AETNA directly for this type of consultation.) have all equipment that you usually use ready and clean;;pumps, flanges, bottles, etc.
Consultations last about an 75-90 minutes. Follow ups can be scheduled as necessary.
If needed, I will do my best to locate professionals in your area who can help support the plan we develop together.