Tuesday, October 13th, 2026, 12:00 – 1:00 pm, Central Time Zone. Dr. Heidi Fan, RN, PhD, Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB Title: Virtual Breastfeeding Support: Evidence from a Systematic Review and Needs Assessment

ZOOM LINK: https://ca01web.zoom.us/j/65029600459?pwd=2xJ6HTYTrpvt4g7qiF1bAUbTYeQ8gq.1

Abstract: Breastfeeding has numerous benefits for parents and infants. Parents often require timely and accessible support when they face breastfeeding challenges. Nurses and other health care professionals play an important role in providing breastfeeding support. However, access to in-person services may be limited by geographical location, service availability, and other barriers. Virtual care offers an opportunity to improve access to breastfeeding support beyond clinical settings. In this presentation, we will discuss findings from a systematic review of randomized controlled trials examining the effectiveness of virtual health interventions on breastfeeding duration and exclusivity. Different approaches to virtual breastfeeding support will be compared and the gaps in the existing evidence will be highlighted. Findings from a needs assessment exploring parents’ experiences with and access to breastfeeding support in Canada will also be presented. We will discuss how virtual breastfeeding support can complement in-person care and better support breastfeeding parents, with consideration of the implications for nursing practice and priorities for future research.

Dr. Diana E. McMillan, RN, PhD Professor, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, College of Nursing, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB, Canada

** Please email as I am often working remotely or offsite.

I live and work on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Ininiwak, Anisininewuk, Dakota Oyate and Dene, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. I respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, I acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and I dedicate myself to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of Reconciliation and collaboration.