International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) are the gold standard in lactation care. IBCLCs are the leading lactation care providers to complete clinical training and maintain knowledge to become and stay internationally recognized lactation experts. 

Currently, IBCLCs serving across Canada are overseen by the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). Yet, with no provincial colleges in place to govern these professionals, disparities exist among provinces in the number and distribution of active IBCLCs. Some provinces host no IBCLCs at all, while others have a high concentration. 

In the interest of equitable access to gold standard breastfeeding support for all Canadian parents, we urge Health Minister Hon. Josie Osborne to acknowledge the crucial role of IBCLCs and to initiate steps to regulate their training and practice. With approximately 2000 certified IBCLCs around the country, better regulation will ensure consistency of service, improve access, and help to distribute consultants more evenly across provinces.

By recognizing and promoting the work of IBCLCs, we can enhance the quality of breastfeeding support available to Canadian families, promoting healthier outcomes for both parents and infants.

In light of these facts, we ask you to sign this petition to call upon Health Minister Hon. Josie Osborne to recognize and regulate the operation of IBCLCs in Canada. Your support can help to ensure that all families in need have access to qualified breastfeeding support.

Email Hon. Josie Osborne: HLTH.Minister@gov.bc.ca