In New York, there are 2,765 CLCs and 909 IBCLCs, making a combined total of 15.14 lactation care providers per 1,000 live births. But a new bill, AB 2345/SB 3387, signed by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo aims to improve access to these professionals.

This bill provides for Medicaid reimbursement for lactation counseling services in the state of New York, which will work toward ensuring greater access and choice for nursing mothers and ensuring reimbursement for the professionals.

The Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice (ALPP) worked closely with legislators to introduce this bill.

“This legislation will allow for Medicaid reimbursement for lactation care and support services provided by CLCs, IBCLCs, and other qualified lactation professionals who are accredited by a national accreditation agency,” said ALPP’s Director, Ellie MacGregor, MPH, CLC. “It is our intention that this bill will increase breastfeeding initiation and continuation rates and expand access to care for all families in New York.”

Governor Cuomo plans to work with the NY Legislature to make some amendments to the bill, but has stated that he fully supports the intent of the bill to increase access to lactation counseling services.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.