The Grandparenting Pathway is for physicians who are established in and have been actively practicing Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine prior to the establishment of board certification in this field. These physicians have independently obtained extensive knowledge and skills supporting both the parent and the infant/child in Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine as evidenced by dedicated longitudinal learning in the field and considerable hours of experience.
Grandparenting Pathway Requirements
Educational Background and Licensure Requirements
Education Requirements
- A CME certificate must have been obtained.
- Education from non-BFLM focused databases such as from Up-to-Date, Medscape, ect. are not acceptable (even when CME is awarded).
- In order to demonstrate consistent and longitudinal ongoing learning, at least 10 CME credits per year must have been earned during each of the last 3 years with a total of at least 45 CME credits.
Required Scope of Practice and Clinical Experience
- Started practicing clinical Breastfeeding and Lactation Medicine after completion of medical training
- Started independent practice before January 2020
- Experience in BFLM practice for at least 3 of the last 4 years
- Taking a comprehensive BFL history of both the lactating parent and child
- Performing an exam of the lactating breast
- Performing a breast pump assessment
- Evaluating infant oral anatomy and function
- Evaluating feeding and assessing milk transfer
- Evaluating infant and toddler growth
- Ordering and interpreting labs and diagnostic imaging for parent and child
- Documenting on both parent and child
- Managing parent mental health concerns (screen, refer, treat)
- Managing treatment for BFL conditions (e.g., mastitis, hyperlactation, vasospasm)
- Managing milk production issues (e.g., insufficient or over-production)
- Providing feeding supplementation recommendations
Application fee: $100
Examination fee: $1500
Effective 1/1/25 NABBLM will be changing from a differential cost structure to a universal fee structure. This will apply for both the application and examination fees. In an effort to fulfill a commitment we made during the grandparenting period, we will honor the discounted rate for Canadian applicants in the Grandparenting Pathway for the duration this pathway is open.
Resources
Access essential resources to help you succeed in achieving your certification.
Candidate booklet for the Grandparenting In exam 2024 | The details on applying for and taking the exam. |
General Knowledge Areas for the Certification Examination | Topics covered on the certification exam. |
Grandparenting-In Exam Blueprint | This document outlines the structure of the certification exam, detailing the various sections and types of questions to help candidates prepare effectively. |
2023 Pilot Exam Candidate Book | The details on applying for and taking the exam. |
NABBLM Policy Manual | This NABBLM policy handbook provides comprehensive guidelines on organizational policies, procedures, and standards, ensuring clarity and consistency for all members and stakeholders. |