FAQ
What to expect when working with Julie
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN I BOOK A CONSULTATION?
Prior to your initial appointment, you'll be asked to complete an intake form, including consent for care. This form will include information about you and your baby's medical history and desired lactation focus areas to save time during your consult to discuss strategies and answer questions instead of gathering background information. The form is thorough and may take a few minutes to complete. Feel free to skip optional questions that do not relate to your situation.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY CONSULT?
Initial consults are allotted 90 minutes and followup appointments are allotted 60 minutes, to allow plenty of time for your baby to have a good feeding. Your baby will tell us when they are ready for a feeding. If your baby is showing hunger cues at the start of the session, I may jump into a feeding evaluation (which can include weighing your baby, optimizing latching, positions, bottle feeding, etc.). When your baby is content, we will talk together to form a treatment plan that works best for your family.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR A HOME VISIT?
The intake form must be completed prior to your appointment time. I may gather some additional information prior to your visit as needed. If possible, try to time it so that your baby will start to get hungry within the first 30 minutes of the visit. If your baby seems very hungry, go ahead and offer a small feeding before I arrive -- we don't want your baby to be hangry! Do not worry about a tidy house or fancy clothes, you have a newborn! I do ask that pets are in a separate room.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR A TELEHEALTH SESSION?
You are welcome to send me photos and videos of what is going on with your baby. Sometimes this can be especially helpful when those challenging feedings are at 3AM! Sometimes pre-recorded videos are enough so that during our live call, I can demonstrate different positions, techniques, etc. for you to try. Try to time it so that your baby will start to get hungry during our call if you want to practice techniques during the call.
DO YOU TAKE INSURANCE? HOW DO I PAY?
I am not in-network with any insurance companies. By remaining out-of-network, I am able to offer a unique blend of lactation counseling, and occupational therapy in a way that works best for both you and me. This allows for the highest quality of service as we are not limited in terms of which services offered and how much time I can spend with you. You may pay at either time of booking or time of service. You will receive a digital invoice at time of service, to which credit cards, debits cards, Apple Pay, checks, and FSA/HSA cards are accepted. The health care law under the Affordable Care Act requires all new health plans to cover “comprehensive prenatal and postnatal lactation support [and] counseling.” The National Women's Law Center can be a good resource for learning about lactation services covered under your health plan. For parents pursuing out-of-network reimbursement, provide a super bill upon request. I believe breastfeeding support should be accessible to everyone. If you find that listed prices for services won't work for your family's budget, I'm here to work with you to help you find the right resources within your budget.
WHAT PRECAUTIONS DO YOU TAKE FOR COVID-19?
The health of your newborn and your family are of upmost importance to me. Specific precautions evolve as the local community spread level evolves (and I will communicate these precautions prior to our visit). I stay up-to-date with current recommended practices for breastfeeding people by the CDC, AAP, ACOG, and Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine.
Items are sanitized between clients, I am fully vaccinated, and I wear appropriate PPE when working with clients and in the community.
Telehealth and email only support is always an option for families who are more comfortable with virtual support.