From staff reports
L’Observateur

LUTCHER — A partnership with southeast Louisiana’s largest non-profit healthcare system will enable St. James Parish Hospital patients greater access to cardiologists in their community.

St. James Parish Hospital recently announces the cardiology partnership with Ochsner Health System, which officials said would benefit patients and community members through continuous cardiology support from Ochsner Medical Center—Kenner.

“It was very important for us to partner with a quality provider that would bring the best value to our hospital and patients,” St. James Parish Hospital CEO Mary Ellen Pratt said.

Hospital officials said the partnership allows St. James to offer access to local services and decreased travel while Ochsner brings a group of skilled cardiologists, world-class cardiac care and quicker, more integrated access to specialized procedures as needed.

“After sending out a request for proposals, we conducted several meetings between hospital executives, board members, employed physicians and reputable cardiology providers,” Pratt said. “This long-term partnership will allow more local patients to be cared for at home, 24/7 cardiology coverage for inpatients and ER consultations, seamless transfer options, access to a national leader in cardiac care, outpatient cardiology clinics Monday through Friday and quicker turnaround times on cardiology diagnostic tests.”

In addition, a group of Ochsner cardiologists, led by Dr. Lewis Siegel, will provide direct patient care in the region and build additional solutions to address the specific needs of St. James Parish Hospital patients.

Warner Thomas, Ochsner Health System president and CEO, said Ochsner is excited to expand its strategic partnership with St. James Parish Hospital to include services beyond its current stroke telemedicine partnership.

“The expansion of cardiology services and procedures right here in St. James Parish will be a great asset to the community,” Thomas said. “We look forward to continuing to work with the great team of physicians and staff at St. James to maintain the quality of care its patients have come to know and expect.”

St. James Parish Hospital is a Joint Commission Accredited Facility that has served the River Parishes for over 50 years. For more information, visit sjph.org.