The IBCLC is a professional credential. Security is important to the integrity of the credential. IBCLCs’ work impacts the health of infants and parents, and therefore verification of their knowledge is of great importance. Additionally, a great deal of expertise, time, and resources go into the development of examination questions or items. Certification professionals estimate that typically the value of examination items is $1,000 to $2,000 USD per item. Security is important both to the health and safety of the public as well as to the health of the certification board which develops the examination items.