"By working together, we aim to make meaningful progress in improving child health outcomes, which here in Louisiana are among the worst in the nation," says Chuck Spicer, President of Our Lady of the Lake Health.
Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health—a Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based pediatric healthcare provider with 988 beds and over $4 billion in total patient revenue—has partnered with Children’s Hospital New Orleans in an effort to provide children across the state with access to better healthcare.
"Sharing a passion for the well-being of children, Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health and Children’s Hospital New Orleans have similar histories of innovation, accomplishment, and a steadfast commitment to the children and families across our communities," Chuck Spicer, President of Our Lady of the Lake Health, said in an email release. "By working together, we aim to make meaningful progress in improving child health outcomes, which here in Louisiana are among the worst in the nation. We believe that a healthier future for our children happens together."
The affiliation will take effect on January 1, 2023, and establishes a framework where Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health and Children’s Hospital New Orleans—a 257-bed, not-for-profit pediatric medical center with over $1 billion in total patient revenue—will collaborate to provide better quality care and greater access to care for younger patients.
"Our affiliation offers new and exciting opportunities for innovation," John Nickens, President and Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Hospital New Orleans, said in the release. "We know that we can do more together. For example, we will be able to join forces in the recruitment of pediatric sub-specialists, retention of top talent, and our commitment to building centers of excellence for pediatric care, close to home."
The affiliation will roll out in two phases. First, the two hospitals will focus on improving the pediatric services offered in Baton Rouge and the surrounding communities. Children’s Hospital New Orleans will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health through a co-managed approach with committees comprised of board, physicians, and other leaders across the two organizations. In the second phase, the two hospitals will work together to create a statewide network for children’s specialty care.
"Across our institutions, we have the best and brightest pediatric providers, nurses and other experts working across Louisiana and the Gulf South each day to shape a healthier future for kids," Greg Feirn, Chief Executive Officer of LCMC Health, which manages Children’s Hospital New Orleans, said in the release. "The results when our shared expertise, resources, and commitment to the communities we serve come together are limitless."
Amanda Schiavo is the Finance Editor for HealthLeaders.