My mentor used this program, and I fell in love with it while I worked with her. While I dabbled in other EHRs as I started my own practice, it quickly became an easy choice to settle on Practice Better.

From its user-friendly design to its powerful integrations and insurance billing capabilities, Practice Better offers everything a lactation consultant needs to run a smooth and professional practice.

Here’s an in-depth look at my experience with Practice Better, highlighting the features that make it stand out and areas where it could improve.

What Makes Practice Better a Great Choice for Lactation Consultants?

1. Intuitive and User-Friendly Interface

One of the first things I appreciated about Practice Better was how easy it was to navigate. Unlike some other EHR platforms that feel clunky or outdated, Practice Better has a modern, clean interface that’s intuitive for both practitioners and clients. Whether I’m setting up an appointment, creating a chart note, or messaging a client, the platform is smooth and efficient—something that’s especially valuable when juggling multiple clients and administrative tasks.

2. Seamless Client Experience

A great EHR system doesn’t just work well for the provider—it also needs to be client-friendly, and Practice Better delivers on that. My clients frequently comment on how much they enjoy the client portal. Clients can easily:

• Schedule appointments (without back-and-forth emails)
• Complete intake forms and consents before our session
• Access resources and protocols I provide
• Communicate securely via the client portal

The fact that all of these features are housed in one system makes it incredibly convenient for my clients, reducing confusion and improving their overall experience.

3. Integrated Secure Messenger

One of the standout features for lactation consultants is Practice Better’s secure messaging system. Many clients have follow-up questions after a consultation, and rather than dealing with texts or emails (which can get lost or feel unprofessional), Practice Better allows me to keep all communications securely within the platform. This also ensures that I have a record of all conversations, which is helpful for client care and documentation.

The ability to set boundaries with message response times is another feature I appreciate, allowing me to maintain a healthy work-life balance while still offering excellent client support.

4. Powerful Integrations for a Comprehensive Practice

Practice Better integrates with several key platforms that enhance the way I run my practice:

• Claim.MD – This integration allows me to submit insurance claims directly through Practice Better, making it a great option for lactation consultants who accept insurance. Rather than navigating separate portals, I can streamline the billing process, which saves time and effort.
• Rupa Health – For clients who need lab testing, this integration is incredibly helpful. While not all lactation consultants utilize lab work, those who focus on complex cases like hormonal imbalances, thyroid function, or gut health may find this feature invaluable.
• That Clean Life – Nutrition plays a big role in lactation, and this integration provides custom meal planning support for clients. If I want to offer clients nutrition guidance for optimizing milk supply or managing postpartum recovery, I can easily create and share meal plans through this integration.

These integrations make Practice Better a comprehensive solution for lactation consultants who want to go beyond basic charting and truly enhance their client care.

5. Insurance Billing and Superbills

If you accept insurance, you know how complex billing can be. Practice Better allows you to generate superbills with ease, and for those who directly bill insurance, the Claim.MD integration is a game-changer.

For out-of-network providers, Practice Better makes it simple to create detailed, professional superbills that clients can submit for reimbursement. This is an important feature, especially since many lactation consultants are working toward increasing accessibility through insurance coverage.

6. Customizable Forms and Charting

One of the things I love most is the ability to customize client intake forms and charting templates. I’ve tailored my setup to include:

• Detailed intake forms to gather essential client history
• Custom charting templates for consistent documentation
• Automated follow-up forms to check in with clients after a session

This level of customization allows me to streamline my workflow, ensuring that I have the necessary information without extra administrative burden.

7. All-in-One Platform

I am all about streamlining my business, and I don’t want to be switching back and forth between different platforms to accomplish all my tasks. I can run almost my entire business from Practice Better, including:

• Managing Consults and Client Interactionsto gather essential client history
• Providing Courses for consistent documentation
• Billing is a breeze – whether it’s for sending insurance claims, superbills, or charging clients, it takes seconds to accomplish
• Sending Faxes – I am always sending reports on clients to their healthcare providers, which is so easy because I have a fax number that came with my account, and I can send AND receive faxes right straight from Practice Better

7. Automations and Snippets

It’s taken me some time to figure out some of the handier features to make my life easier in Practice Better, but I don’t think I can turn back now!

• Snippets allow me to easily save text that I frequently share with clients to help me make charting a breeze
• Automatically send forms to clients depending on what type of service they signup for
• Request Google Reviews is a new feature that allows me to request Google Reviews from my clients in a non-intrusive way
• Reminders – You can setup reminders for visits, to book another consult, and much more easily!

A Few Areas for Improvement

While I love Practice Better, there are a few areas that could be improved:

• Learning Curve for Advanced Features – While the platform is user-friendly, some of the more advanced features (like automation, packages, or group programs) take time to fully understand. However, their support team and training resources are excellent.
• Mobile App Limitations – While the mobile app is useful for quick tasks, I find that some features (like scheduling and certain integrations) work best on a desktop.
• Scheduling – I wish there was a more sleek scheduler. I feel like it’s clunkier compared to some other options out there. I would love if I could have the first option to pick home visit, office visit, or virtual, and then get options from there.

These are relatively minor issues, and overall, the benefits far outweigh any drawbacks.

Final Thoughts: Is Practice Better Worth It for Lactation Consultants and Other Health Professionals?

After using Practice Better for over four years, I can confidently say that it’s one of the best investments I’ve made for my lactation practice. It streamlines everything—from scheduling and charting to messaging and billing—while also integrating with tools that enhance client care.

If you’re a lactation consultant looking for an EHR that is professional, user-friendly, and highly functional, I highly recommend Practice Better. Whether you take insurance, offer virtual consultations, or want to provide a seamless experience for your clients, this platform has you covered.

Would you like a behind-the-scenes walkthrough of how I use Practice Better in my practice? Let me know in the comments!

The post Practice Better Review: A Lactation Consultant’s Perspective After Four Years appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

When it comes to supporting breastfeeding families, having the right tools can make all the difference. One essential tool for lactation consultants is a high-quality infant scale. Whether you’re weighing babies to monitor growth trends or conducting pre- and post-feed weight checks, accuracy and reliability are key.

However, many lactation consultants feel overwhelmed when trying to decided what scale to purchase. In this article, we will share some of the best scales for lactation consultants across different price ranges and provide tips on what to look for when selecting the perfect scale for your practice.

Why Accuracy Matters in Infant Scales

Accurate weight measurements are vital for:

• Tracking Growth: Consistent, reliable weight checks ensure babies are thriving and gaining appropriately.
• Pre- and Post-Feed Weights: Measuring milk transfer during feedings helps assess breastfeeding success and troubleshoot challenges.
• Building Trust: Parents rely on lactation consultants for guidance and reassurance. A reliable scale can provide the confidence they need.

What to Look for in an Infant Scale

When choosing a scale, consider the following features:

1. Accuracy: Look for a scale with a precision of at least 5 grams (0.1 ounces) to capture small changes in weight. 2 grams is deal, espcially if you work with premature infants.
2. Ease of Use: A simple, intuitive interface is ideal for busy consultants.
3. Portability: If you offer home visits, a lightweight, portable scale is a must.
4. Weight Capacity: Ensure the scale accommodates newborns to toddlers (up to 40 lbs or more).
5. Durability: A well-constructed scale can withstand frequent use and transportation.
6. Price: Consider your budget while balancing quality and functionality.
7. Measurements: You want your scale to be able to measure in both lbs and ounces and in grams/kilograms. Grams/Kilograms is especially important for doing weighted feeds.

Top Infant Scales for Lactation Consultants

Here are a variety of scales that are you can consider. If you aren’t able to afford one of the more expensive, higher tier options, that’s okay. Start out with another scale and then save money to upgrade. Be aware of the limitations of the less expensive scales (possibly less accuracy, may need to be calibrated more frequently) and grow as you can.

Entry-Level Option

Better Goods Digital Baby Scale

• Price: Around $50
• Best For: New consultants or those on a tight budget.
• Features: Lightweight and portable, this scale offers a decent level of accuracy (5-10g increments) and a user-friendly design. While it’s not as precise as higher-end models, it’s a good starting point for basic weight checks. This is the first scale I had, and it actually works really well.

Mid-Range Options

Rice Lake DBS2 Digital Baby Scale

• Price: Around $200
• Best For: Consultants seeking an affordable yet reliable option.
• Features: Known for its solid construction and accuracy (5g increments), the DBS2 is compact and easy to transport, making it a great choice for home visits. The scale includes a comfortable tray and a clear digital display. This is the scale that I have used in my practice until recently.

High-End Options

Marsden M-300 Portable Baby Scale

• Price: Around $500-600
• Best For: Established consultants
• Features: With high precision (2g increments) and a robust design, this scale is perfect for frequent use. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it a popular choice among lactation professionals. It is portable and easy to use. This was my top choice when looking for scales, but they were back-ordered, so I had to opt for something else. If you don’t need a portable scale, the M-400 is a great option that is less expensive.

TANITA 1584 Digital Baby Scale

• Price: About $1,449
• Best For: Those prioritizing precision and professionalism with a higher budget
• Features: TANITA is renowned for its medical-grade scales. This model is highly accurate (2g increments) and features a sleek design, portability, and reliable performance. It has a soft mat for weighing, a feature to calculate weighted feeds, and works really well. It’s one of the most popular models amongst lactation professionals. I (Katie) just upgrade to this and couldn’t be more excited!

Medela BabyWeigh II Scale

• Price: Around $1,895
• Best For: Professionals requiring the gold standard in accuracy and functionality.
• Features: Designed specifically for pre- and post-feed weight measurements, the BabyWeigh II is incredibly precise (2g increments) and easy to use. Its reputation for accuracy makes it a trusted choice for hospitals and lactation consultants. It is very expensive and may be difficult for newer consultants to purchase, but it is well worth the investement. This one can be a little harder to find in stock.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a high-quality infant scale is crucial for lactation consultants who want to provide accurate, dependable care. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade, there’s a scale to meet your needs and budget. Remember to prioritize accuracy, ease of use, and portability when making your selection.

By equipping yourself with the right tools, you’ll not only enhance your practice but also help families feel more confident and supported on their breastfeeding journey.

The post The Best Scales for Lactation Consultants: A Comprehensive Guide appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

This is obviously an added expense, but it’s one that I think you need to invest in to stay organized, protect yourself and your clients, and to help your practice grow.

With many options available, finding an EHR platform that meets your needs as a lactation consultant is important. This article’ll explore six popular EHR and charting systems that are particularly useful for IBCLCs: PracticeQ, Practice Better, ChARM, Google Business Suite, Milk Notes, and Jane.

1. PracticeQ

PracticeQ (formerly IntakeQ) is a comprehensive, all-in-one system designed specifically for health professionals, making it a great fit for IBCLCs. It seems to be the most popular amongst lactation professionals. It offers a wide range of features that allow you to manage your entire practice in one place, including client scheduling, billing, charting, and HIPAA-compliant forms.

Key Features:

• Customizable Forms: Create personalized intake forms and consent forms that clients can fill out online.
• Client Portal: A secure portal where clients can schedule appointments, make payments, and access documents.
• Telehealth Integration: PracticeQ supports virtual consultations, which have become increasingly important for IBCLCs.
• Payment Processing: Integrates payment options directly into the platform, simplifying billing and transactions.
• Automated Reminders: Send appointment reminders and follow-up messages to clients.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

PracticeQ is great for IBCLCs because of its all-in-one functionality and focus on automating administrative tasks, so you can focus on your clients. The customizable forms and telehealth features are especially helpful for those offering virtual consultations. However, some users mention that the platform can initially feel overwhelming due to its vast array of features, but it’s worth the learning curve. Their customer support and onboarding teams are fantastic, and they are more than happy to walk you through and help you set it up for your needs.

Costs:

2. Practice Better

Practice Better is another highly regarded EHR system offering a streamlined client management approach. While nutritionists and other wellness professionals commonly use it, IBCLCs have found this platform particularly effective for charting, billing, and client communications. I use and love it. I have considered switching to other systems, but at the end of the day, it does what I need it to, and it does it well. I do wish there was a little more flexibility with how the scheduling system looks (I prefer how PracticeQ works more), but it does what it needs to do.

Key Features:

• Task Automation: Automates appointment reminders, invoicing, and follow-up emails. You can create snippets to help you quickly type out your charting and care plan.
• Client Portal: Offers a personalized portal where clients can book appointments, fill out forms, and view consult notes. They have an integrated messaging service which makes it easy to connect with your clients.
• Telehealth Capabilities: Provides secure video calls for virtual consultations. You can use their secure system or connect seamlessly with your Zoom account.
• Mobile-Friendly: Both the client and practitioner portals are mobile-friendly, allowing you to manage your practice on the go. The mobile app is top notch and it works really well.
• Food Journaling: If you’re working with clients on breastfeeding diets, Practice Better also offers a food journaling feature, as well as mood journals. I love when my clients use these features so I can help them better
• AI Services: They have recently added some new AI services, such as AI note taking, which are great tools for
• Program Options: I LOVE that I can host all of my courses in Practice Better. This has saved me quite a bit as I’ve switched from another platform. You can create all types of courses and group programs.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

Practice Better is user-friendly and ideal for those who want an easy-to-navigate platform with robust automation tools. IBCLCs appreciate the seamless telehealth integrations and the ability to communicate securely with clients, making this a top choice for consultants who want to focus on client care rather than paperwork.

Costs:

3. ChARM Health

ChARM Health is a versatile EHR platform that caters to a wide variety of healthcare providers, including lactation consultants. It offers a customizable, modular approach, meaning you can select the specific features you need for your practice, which makes it more affordable and adaptable.

Key Features:

• Customizable Templates: Create personalized charting templates for lactation consultations.
• Patient Portal: A HIPAA-compliant portal for clients to access their records, schedule appointments, and communicate with you securely.
• E-Prescriptions: If you work with medical providers, this can be a helpful feature for your practice.
• Document Management: Organize and store all client documents in one place.
• Revenue Cycle Management: Helps manage billing and insurance claims if needed.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

ChARM Health is highly customizable, which is one of the main reasons IBCLCs gravitate toward this platform. It’s ideal for practices that want the flexibility to adapt the software to their unique needs, such as creating custom charting forms specific to lactation care. However, the customizability means it may take some time to set up initially.

Costs:

4. Google Business Suite

Though not a dedicated EHR, Google Business Suite (which includes tools like Google Drive, Google Forms, Google Calendar, and Google Meet) is a surprisingly effective and budget-friendly option for IBCLCs just starting out. Many IBCLCs use Google Forms for intake forms and charting, while Google Calendar can be used for scheduling appointments.

Key Features:

• Google Forms: Create and store client intake forms and consent forms.
• Google Drive: Securely store client records, consult notes, and other documents.
• Google Meet: Conduct virtual consults via a secure video platform.
• Google Calendar: Schedule appointments and send automated reminders.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

For IBCLCs looking for a low-cost or free option to manage their practice, Google Business Suite offers essential tools without the high price tag. It’s not a full EHR solution, so it lacks the specialized features of other platforms, but it’s a great stepping stone for those who want a simple, DIY setup. Just be mindful of HIPAA compliance, as extra steps (such as using Google’s paid business services) are necessary to ensure privacy standards.

Costs:

5. Milk Notes

Milk Notes is a specialized EHR platform designed specifically for lactation consultants. This platform understands the unique needs of IBCLCs, offering an intuitive design tailored to the specifics of lactation care.

Key Features:

• Lactation-Focused Charting: Pre-built charting templates designed for lactation consultations.
• Client Portal: Secure client access for scheduling, payments, and form submissions.
• Comprehensive Reporting: Offers detailed reports to help track client progress and outcomes.
• HIPAA Compliance: Ensures all client information is securely stored and meets privacy requirements.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

Milk Notes is designed by IBCLCs, for IBCLCs. The lactation-focused features, like pre-built charting templates, make it easier to document consults without needing to customize or adapt a system designed for general healthcare. For consultants looking for a system that understands the nuances of their work, Milk Notes is a perfect match. However, as a smaller platform, it may not offer the breadth of features seen in more general platforms like PracticeQ or Practice Better.

Costs:

6. Jane

Jane is an increasingly popular EHR system among healthcare providers, including IBCLCs. This platform focuses on being user-friendly while offering all the essential tools needed to manage your practice, from scheduling and charting to billing and online payments.

Key Features:

• User-Friendly Interface: Simple and intuitive design makes it easy to use.
• Customizable Charting: Create templates for your consult notes specific to lactation care.
• Online Scheduling: Clients can book and manage their own appointments through the platform.
• Payment Processing: Accepts payments directly through Jane, and integrates with Stripe.
• Telehealth: Provides video consultations directly through the platform.

Why IBCLCs Love It:

Jane is well-loved for its simplicity and ease of use. It’s a fantastic option for IBCLCs who want a clean, intuitive system that can handle both in-person and virtual consults. The ability to customize charting templates and easily communicate with clients makes this platform particularly attractive to lactation consultants who want a professional but easy-to-manage system. However, it may lack some of the depth that more specialized platforms, like Milk Notes, provide.

Costs:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right EHR/Charting system for your IBCLC practice comes down to your specific needs and how you want to manage your practice. If you’re looking for a specialized solution tailored to lactation care, platforms like Milk Notes or PracticeQ might be the perfect fit. On the other hand, if you want something more customizable or budget-friendly, Google Business Suite or ChARM Health could work well.

Each of these platforms offers unique advantages, so it’s essential to consider what will work best for your workflow, budget, and the level of client care you want to provide. No matter which system you choose, having a reliable EHR will help streamline your practice, reduce administrative burdens, and allow you to focus on what matters most—supporting breastfeeding families.

The post Best EHR/Charting Systems for IBCLCs: A Guide to Streamlining Your Practice appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.

Why Client Education Matters

1. Empowers Parents Knowledge is power, especially for new parents who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of breastfeeding. By offering clear, practical information, you help them feel more in control and confident in their breastfeeding journey. Empowered parents are more likely to persevere through challenges and make informed decisions.
2. Enhances the Client Experience When clients have access to educational resources, they feel supported even outside of your consultations. This continuous support improves their overall experience and satisfaction with your services. They appreciate having reliable information at their fingertips and knowing they’re not alone in their journey.
3. Promotes Better Outcomes Education can lead to better breastfeeding outcomes. When parents understand the benefits of breastfeeding, how to overcome common obstacles, and the best practices for feeding, they’re more likely to achieve their breastfeeding goals. Better-informed parents are also more proactive in seeking help when issues arise.
4. Builds Trust and Credibility Providing valuable educational resources establishes you as a knowledgeable and trusted expert in your field. It shows that you’re invested in their success and willing to go the extra mile to support them. This trust can lead to long-term relationships and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

How to Integrate Education into Your Practice

1. Create Informative Materials Develop a range of educational materials that clients can access easily. These might include pamphlets, guides, checklists, and infographics on topics such as breastfeeding techniques, managing milk supply, and recognizing signs of a good latch. Make sure these materials are easy to understand and visually appealing.
2. Offer Online Resources Expand your reach by creating an online resource hub. This could be a section of your website dedicated to educational content, including blog posts, videos, and downloadable resources. An online platform allows clients to access information at their convenience and revisit it as needed.
3. Host Workshops and Webinars Organize workshops or webinars on relevant topics. These can be in-person or virtual and offer an interactive way for clients to learn. Topics could range from the basics of breastfeeding to advanced problem-solving techniques. Encourage questions and discussions to address specific concerns.
4. Provide Personalized Education Tailor your educational resources to individual client needs. During consultations, assess their knowledge gaps and provide customized advice and resources. This personalized approach ensures that clients receive the most relevant information for their unique situation.
5. Use Visual Aids Visual aids like diagrams, charts, and videos can make complex information easier to understand. Create visual guides that demonstrate breastfeeding positions, milk storage guidelines, or signs of a healthy feeding pattern. Visuals can be particularly helpful for clients who are visual learners.
6. Share Success Stories Incorporate client testimonials and success stories into your educational materials. Real-life experiences can be incredibly motivating and provide reassurance to new parents. Share stories of how others have overcome challenges and achieved their breastfeeding goals.
7. Encourage Ongoing Learning Encourage clients to continue learning by recommending books, websites, and support groups. Provide a list of trusted resources where they can find additional information and connect with others. Encourage them to stay engaged and proactive in their breastfeeding journey.
8. Follow Up and Reassess Follow up with clients after consultations to see how they’re progressing and if they have any new questions. Use these follow-ups as opportunities to provide additional educational resources or address any issues that may have arisen since your last meeting.

Final Thoughts

Focusing on client education is a powerful way to enhance your lactation practice and improve outcomes for new parents. By providing clear, accessible, and personalized educational resources, you empower your clients to navigate their breastfeeding journey with confidence and success.

So, invest in creating valuable educational materials, utilize online platforms, and engage with your clients through workshops and follow-ups. Your commitment to education will not only elevate their experience but also solidify your reputation as a knowledgeable and supportive lactation consultant. Here’s to making a difference through education and helping families thrive in their breastfeeding journey!

The post How Providing Educational Resources Can Transform Your Lactation Practice appeared first on Lactation Consultant Ed.