Missed Opportunities in the Outpatient Pediatric Setting to Support Breastfeeding: Results From a Mixed-Methods Study.

INTRODUCTION

Outpatient pediatric providers play a crucial role in the promotion of breastfeeding. We conducted a mixed methods study to measure provider knowledge, attitudes, and current practices around breastfeeding counseling.

METHOD: In New Mexico in 2016 and 2017, we conducted a knowledge, attitudes, and practice survey of outpatient pediatric providers (i.e., nurse practitioners, physicians, and physician assistants) and conducted focus groups with outpatient pediatric providers.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven providers responded to the survey, and 17 participated in three focus groups. Fewer than half of providers surveyed reported asking how long mothers plan to breastfeed at initial well-baby examinations. One quarter of participants (28.2%) erroneously reported that hepatitis C was an absolute contraindication to breastfeeding. Just half of respondents had received continuing education within the past 3 years about managing common breastfeeding problems.

DISCUSSION: We identified missed opportunities for outpatient pediatric providers to support breastfeeding and a need for continuing provider education.