Advocacy

When I (Kristyn) was beginning my breastfeeding journey with my oldest child in 2007, I was fortunate enough to have access to lactation support at no cost. Looking back, I am in awe and deeply grateful; it wasn't required to be covered by insurance at the time and it cost the hospital money in staff that it saw no tangible revenue from. Had it not been for that resource, I don't know if I would have been successful in meeting my goals. We know that lactation services and supporting human milk feeding is good for individuals, families, and businesses, creating long term cost savings through better health. However, many families still struggle to access the care that they need. The appreciation for what I was able to receive is what drives me to "pay it forward" and advocate for better access for all families. I am committed to doing that however I can.

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Which of the following best describes you?

Parent/Relative of a South Carolina infant/young child

Lactation Provider

Birthworker

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Legislative Updates:

December 11, 2024:

I am THRILLED to announce that there is now a bill that has been prefiled for the 2025 legislative session!

S 42 - Insurance coverage for lactation services and doula services - will require that all commercial and medicaid carriers in the state accept lactation consultants and doulas into their networks and provide coverage for their services.

THIS IS HUGE!!!!!

This could not have happened without the longstanding efforts of Ashley Lidow at WREN, if you have a last minute need for a tax write off - donate to WREN!

We are also deeply grateful to Senator Tom Davis, who represents Senate District 46 in the Lowcountry. Without his willingness to initiate bill writing and filing, and his team's dedications to those projects we wouldn't have the quality bill that we do. Rebecca Wiesehahn particularly spent so much time listening to me talk about the nuances of lactation and insurance and combined that with her own deep understanding of healthcare law, she made sure we had a bill that will actually work and will do what we want it to do. If you have a moment, drop him a line and tell him thanks!

There is still a long road ahead, committees and votes and it has to pass through the Senate and the House before being signed by the Governor. But this is a crucial first step. Make sure you sign up to be on our email list and be notified when all the exciting things start happening!