LULING — St. Charles Parish Hospital and Ochsner Health System recently announced an expansion of their relationship.

Working closely since 2008, Ochsner and STCH will fully align to strengthen resources, enhance existing clinical services and lower costs for their patients, officials said. 

Under the expanded affiliation, Ochsner would provide management services to St. Charles Hospital and assist the local management team.

However, the St. Charles Hospital Service District will continue to own the hospital, and the Hospital Service District Board will continue to serve as the board of the hospital with all the same responsibilities for oversight. 

“We are excited to expand our affiliation with Ochsner,” Federico Martinez Jr., CEO of STCH, said.

“As a community hospital, we have a duty to care for the people of St. Charles Parish. This opportunity allows us to continue to strengthen existing services while increasing access to resources not currently available to our patients.”

Through shared best practices and implementation of advanced, patient-centered technology, each organization will focus on continued improvements in quality and access.

Current services between the two entities include Ochsner’s telestroke program, neurology services and primary care services.

Ochsner Health System President and CEO Warner Thomas said as health care evolves, expanding affiliations better position each organization for success in a “new value-based environment.”

“STCH is a critical resource for the residents of this parish,” Thomas said.

“The strategic benefits for both organizations will provide better alignment of resources and growth opportunities for their physicians and, most importantly, their patients.

“Patients will have the convenience of being treated close to home while gaining better access to the depth and breadth of care for which Ochsner is nationally recognized.”