Introducing Dentists as ABM Members

The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine (ABM) is 20 years old in 2015. This is a significant milestone for any organization and is a testament to the vision of the 12 founders who realized the need for a way of connecting and educating physicians with an interest in breastfeeding, no matter what their specialty was and no matter where they lived. Although there were already several health profession–based breastfeeding organizations, it was recognized that the knowledge and skill set required by physicians who assisted and treated breastfeeding women and infants were not the same as that required by lactation consultants and other health professionals. This was particularly evident for those mothers and infants with specific medical or breastfeeding problems. By establishing a physician-only organization, the founders engendered a philosophy of education targeted at physicians by physicians. It also meant that ABM was seen to be a medical organization as well as a breastfeeding organization, thus facilitating recognition by other medical organizations (such as the American Academy of Pediatrics) and positioning ABM in a difference space with nongovernmental organizations and advocacy groups.

There was also concern that if the membership of ABM included a broad range of health professionals, then many physicians would not join. It would dilute the capacity of physicians to discuss medical issues with other physicians and have an effect on the scientific and therapeutic rigor required. Consequently, ABM conferences have always had some sessions open to physicians only, although other sessions are open for any healthcare team member. Physicians, of course, work collaboratively with other professionals to assist breastfeeding women and recognize that we all have different roles to play to achieve optimal outcomes.

Over the years there have been numerous discussions about broadening the membership base of ABM. The points raised previously have always been the basis on which these discussions and proposals have resulted in our bylaws continuing to state that members must hold an MD, DO, MBBS, or equivalent or be a medical student. However, times change. At the ABM Board meeting in November 2014, the Board voted to allow dentists (those who hold a DMD, DDS, or equivalent) to become ABM members. This was not a decision made quickly or without a considerable amount of thought and discussion within the Board and with ABM members outside the Board. One motivator for the change was the increasing number of dentists who perform frenotomies on breastfed infants, and it was thought that both these dentists and ABM physicians would benefit from a closer relationship. Dentists have extensive training in caring for dental and oral health and have clinical qualifications and responsibilities comparable to physicians, including the right to prescribe. By opening up membership in ABM to dentists and oral surgeons, we aim to improve existing collaborations and share additional knowledge among providers with the goal of enhancing patient care and lactation outcomes. The ABM bylaws were altered in January 2015 to facilitate this change, and the online membership forms are updated to reflect the change. If you know of any dentists who you think would be interested in joining ABM, please direct them to the ABM Web site (www.bfmed.org).