University Medical Center a benefit for entire region

Hwy 308 reopened to traffic
June 28, 2011
John Alford Ashley
June 30, 2011
Hwy 308 reopened to traffic
June 28, 2011
John Alford Ashley
June 30, 2011

Dear Editor,

Why should we support building a teaching hospital in New Orleans? Because, like us, about 60 percent of physicians in our community were educated by the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. No other medical school educates more Thibodaux, Houma and St. Mary parish area physicians than the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans and Graduate Medical Education programs.


As well, local patients who need complex medical care are referred to the LSU teaching hospital and clinics in New Orleans each year.


The LSU School of Medicine is one of six professional health schools of the LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans. All of them offer opportunities for our sons and daughters, opportunities for good careers in needed and highly regarded professions, without having to leave Louisiana.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 17 of the 30 fastest growing occupations in the U.S. are related to healthcare and medical research.


The research discoveries made by LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans’ scientists that save lives or improve the quality of life, benefit people everywhere, including those who live in our community. The LSU research enterprise also attracts millions of dollars in outside investment to Louisiana, giving our economy a much needed shot in the arm.


The saying goes, “A rising tide floats all boats.” The new University Medical Center in New Orleans will be the centerpiece of a new industry for Louisiana, one that will generate indirect economic impact that will affect every corner of our state.

It is in the best interest of all of us, not just New Orleans, that the 424-bed University Medical Center planned as the major LSU teaching hospital in New Orleans be built without delay. The business plan, validated by multiple respected national hospital planning firms, supports an operation of that size without excessive state funding.

A true academic health center, it will not only take care of patients without insurance, but will also attract patients with coverage from around Louisiana, the region, and the nation for specialized care. Building the new University Medical Center as planned is not something we can’t afford, it is something we can’t afford not to do.

Dr. James Leonard

Dr. Henry Peltier

Dr. Haden Lafaye

Dr. Robert Alexander

Dr. Stephen Charbonnet