March 26, 2021 - A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a Guaranteed Interview Program between Louisiana State University Health Shreveport School of Medicine and Southern University and A&M College and Southern University at New Orleans was signed at Southern University on March 26.

The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American and Hispanic students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Louisiana who apply to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The goal is for these students to subsequently be accepted for admission and graduate from medical school.

The Guaranteed Interview Program certifies that Southern University students who meet specified criteria included in the MOU will be invited to interview with the Admissions Committee of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. The MOU is effective July 1, 2021 and shall remain in effect until terminated by either Party. “LSU Health Shreveport is honored to have the opportunity to propel our message that every student is family in our learning communities. We are committed to increasing the percentage of African American and Hispanic students who apply, matriculate, and ultimately graduate from our institution,” said Dr. G.E. Ghali, chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine.

“Southern University welcomes this opportunity to partner with the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine to increase the number of African-American and Hispanic students entering medical school. This effort will serve to further encourage a viable pathway into medicine for deserving students of color while expanding a physician workforce that is more representative of the state and nation in terms of diversity,” said Dr. Ray L. Belton, president-chancellor, Southern University System.

Those signing the agreement were: LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Southern University and A&M College Chancellor Ray L. Belton, PhD, Southern University at New Orleans Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs David Adeboyge, PhD, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, David Lewis, MD, and Chair of Admission for the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shane Barton, MD.

Additional university representatives in attendance were: Toni Thibeaux, PhD, Assistant Dean of Admissions and Vice-Chancellor for External Affairs Markey Pierre, DBA, and representing Southern University is Robyn Merrick, PhD, Vice President for External Affairs.

Throughout this past year, LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats, comprised of nationally recognized virologists, immunologists, support staff, students plus  50 new employees, have worked tirelessly to deliver a robust pandemic response positioning north Louisiana favorably during the COVID-19 crisis.  Attached are highlights of what the Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats has accomplished during its’ first year.
→ CEEVT Fact Sheet of Accomplishments

SHREVEPORT, March 19, 2021 – Today 112 LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine students learned where they will go for their residency training. On Monday, students received a notification from the National Resident Matching Program of the Association of American Medical Colleges, or the NRMP®, confirming if they matched with a residency program. Match Day is the culmination of years of educational dedication and months of interviews with clinical programs around the US. This year interviews were held virtually due to the pandemic. Students list their choices for residency programs, and institutions list their choices of students to fill them. A computer algorithm then simultaneously takes the list of programs ranked by the student and the list of students ranked by the residency programs to “match” or fill available program positions.

At medical schools nationwide, Match Day ceremonies are held in tandem on the third Friday in March. The landmark event is a career-defining moment when students and their families discover which residency program they matched with and where they will spend the next three to seven years completing their graduate medical education.

24.2% of the graduating class of 2021 will be staying at LSU Health Shreveport for their residency with 38.3% of the class pursuing their residency at either LSU Health Shreveport or New Orleans. 48% percent of the graduating students will be staying in Louisiana, which is critical with Louisiana facing a significant shortfall in the number of physicians need to meet the healthcare demand of the state. Also of note is that 42.8% are entering into primary care residencies comprised of Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Family Medicine and Medicine-Pediatrics. LSUHS students also matched with prestigious programs around the country including George Washington University, Emory, University of Indiana, UCLA, Baylor Scott and White, and University of Alabama.

Dr. David Lewis, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport stated, “Our medical school did incredibly well in the Match with 98% of our 115 students matching. These results are significantly better than many medical schools across the nation which reflects the commitment by our faculty to help each student achieve their personal best.”

Match Day also reveals newly minted physicians coming into the Shreveport-Bossier City area. LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine successfully filled all 139 residency positions available. The new group of LSUHS residents will be welcomed to Shreveport in July, where they will train at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center, St. Mary Medical Center and Monroe Medical Center along with other partner hospitals.

In total, the NRMP reported that 12,925 active applicants competed for 11,767 fellowship positions from 5,110 programs, making the number of applicants in the 2021 match through NMRP the largest on record resulting in 1,158 graduating medical students did not match. There was an 18% increase in US students receiving a traditional medical degree, and a 72% increase in US students acquiring an osteopathic degree. The LSU Health Shreveport Class of 2021 will receive their Doctorate of Medicine on May 22.

“I am delighted we were able to hold an in-person Match Day ceremony this year to celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of the Class of 2021. It was extremely disappointing not only to the students and their families in 2020 for Match Day to be held virtually but to all those who have invested in the lives of these students over their four years. I congratulate each student who had a successful match today and applaud all our faculty and staff for the role they played in this important milestone in the lives of these students,” shared G. E. Ghali, DDS, MC,FACS, FRCS (Ed), Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

March 18, 2021 – In order to accommodate those who work standard hours throughout the workweek, and to maintain the health and wellbeing of CEEVT staff and volunteers, several changes are being made to the vaccination schedule moving forward. Please be assured that the delay of the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine does not reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 48,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites. Individuals should provide ID and insurance information when they arrive to any site for vaccination. Those that meet all other qualifications, but are without insurance are still eligible to receive the vaccine.

The list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 16-64 that have at least one qualifying condition. Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccine. Individuals 16-64 must self-attest at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. The full list of qualifying health conditions can be found on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and at www.lsuhs.edu. Residents in this group may indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.  You do not need an appointment to get the vaccine.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; pregnant persons, dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, it is not required to receive a vaccine.  The goal of LSUHS community vaccine sites is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. 

Below are important changes to the LSU Health Shreveport COVID-19 Vaccination schedule for March 20-27, 2021:

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus

(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport             

SATURDAY, MARCH 20
9 AM – 12 Noon, EDUCATORS ONLY
1 PM – 4 PM, OPEN TO PUBLIC

Johnson & Johnson vaccine    
Educators include teachers, support staff, daycare workers. Teachers, support staff and daycare workers should bring proof of employment along with id and insurance info.

TUESDAY, MARCH 23
5 PM – 9 PM, OPEN TO PUBLIC
1^ST dose of the Pfizer vaccine 

Louisiana State Fairgrounds

3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport 

MONDAY, MARCH 22 / CLOSED – NO VACCINATIONS

TUESDAY, MARCH 23 / CLOSED – NO VACCINATIONS

Don’t miss these important milestone! Reserved parking for media near the clubhouse. Student interviews available upon request. Please RSVP to jjerni@lsuhsc.edu.

WHAT: LSU Health Shreveport Match Day Ceremony
WHO: School of Medicine Class of 2021
WHERE: David Toms 265 Academy COVID-19 Precautions and distancing will be followed, including the wearing of masks.
WHEN: Friday, March 19, 2021 at 10:30 a.m.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: Match Day is the culmination of months of interviewing for graduating medical students with academic health centers and hospitals that have residency programs. Students list their choices for residency programs, and the institutions list their choices of students to fill them. All selections are fed into a computer and “matches” are made. Match Day is when the students and their families find out where they matched and where they will go to complete their graduate medical education. Match Day ceremonies will happen at the same time nationwide. The process is coordinated by the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP).

WHAT: LSU Health Shreveport White Coat Ceremony
WHO: School of Medicine Class of 2023 Keynote Speakers: Dr. Shane Barton, MD, Professor and Chairman of Orthopaedic Surgery Thomas Norris MD Endowed Professor, LSU Health Shreveport WHERE: David Toms 265 Academy COVID-19 Precautions and distancing will be followed, including the wearing of masks.
WHEN: Saturday, March 20, 2021 at 10 a.m.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS: The white coat, a symbol of the medical profession and its scientific connection, will be granted to second-year School of Medicine students in a ceremony this Saturday. The ceremony is a rite of passage for medical students and symbolizes the transition from classroom to clinical learning. In addition to white coat presentations, select recipients will be inducted in to the Gold Humanism Honor Society. The Gold Humanism Honor Society was established in 2002 by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation with the purpose of recognizing medical students, residents and faculty who practice patient-centered care by modeling the qualities of excellence, compassion, altruism, respect and empathy.

March 12, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 43,400 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

In compliance with the recent announcement by Governor Edwards, the list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 16-64 that have at least one qualifying condition. Individuals must acknowledge they have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and at www.lsuhs.edu. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.  You do not need an appointment to get the vaccine.

Those ages 16 and 17 may ONLY receive the Pfizer vaccine, but those 18 years and up may receive the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; pregnant persons, dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, it is not required to receive a vaccine.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination.

Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES WEEK OF MARCH 13-20

All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.

TOMORROW, SATURDAY, MARCH 13
Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health Systems and Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

Logansport High School
17228 Hwy 5, Logansport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 1pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

MONDAY – FRIDAY, MARCH 15 – 19
Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health Systems and Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Monday – Friday, March 15 – 19
10am – 6pm                                
Pfizer vaccine                                                           

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
This vaccine site is exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers healthcare and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group. Teachers, support staff and daycare workers should bring proof of employment along with id and insurance info.

Monday – Friday, March 15 – 19
12pm – 5pm
Pfizer vaccine

Minden – Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive, Minden
Tuesday, March 16
10am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson for first dose of vaccine
Second dose of Moderna will be administered

SATURDAY, MARCH 20 
Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church
8200 St. Vincent Ave., Shreveport
Saturday, March 20
9am – 12pm
Pfizer vaccine

Praise Temple Full Gospel Baptist Cathedral
4725 Greenwood Rd., Shreveport 
Saturday, March 20
2pm – 5pm
Pfizer vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus - see above description of those eligible to receive the vaccine at this clinic
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Saturday, March 20
9am – 4pm
Pfizer vaccine

UPCOMING VACCINE SITES

Brookshire Grocery Arena
Held in conjunction with community hospital partners
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
This vaccine clinic originally scheduled for March 27 and 28 has been postponed until further notice.

March 9, 2021 – LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 40,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

In compliance with the recent announcement by Governor Edwards, the list of those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana residents ages 18-64 that have at least one qualifying conditions.  Individuals must acknowledge they have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

LSU Health Shreveport, in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7, continues to offer a vaccine site dedicated exclusively to Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, those receiving vaccine at the Chevyland site should pre-register. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should bring an ID, and proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 18-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES WEEK OF MARCH 9-13

All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Monday – Friday, March 8 – 12
10 am- 6pm (NEW HOURS)
Pfizer vaccine

Saturday, March 13
9am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson vaccine

LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers | Pfizer vaccine
Monday – Friday, March 8 – 12
12 pm – 5pm (NEW HOURS)

Saturday, March 20
9 am – 4pm

This vaccine clinic is for health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

Mansfield -Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington
Thursday, March 11
10am – 2pm
Johnson & Johnson for first dose of vaccine
Second dose of Moderna will be administered

Logansport High School
17228 Hwy 5, Logansport
Saturday, March 13
9am – 1pm
J &J vaccine

UPCOMING VACCINE SITES

Brookshire’s Grocery Arena
Held in conjunction with community hospital partners  

2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators | Johnson & Johnson vaccine
Saturday, March 27 - 9am – 4pm
Sunday, March 28 -  1pm – 4pm

Minden – Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, March 16
10am-2pm
Johnson & Johnson first doses
Moderna second doses to be administered

March 8, 2021 – The LSU Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Friday to approve the memorandum of understanding (MOU) to expand the Doctor of Nursing Practice Nurse Anesthesia Program (DNP-NA) at LSU Health New Orleans by increasing the class size to accommodate approximately ten additional students who will conduct their clinical training at LSU Health Shreveport.

The MOU seeks to remedy the severe shortage of nurses in Louisiana by expanding the availability of undergraduate and graduate nursing programs in North Louisiana. LSU Health New Orleans and LSU Health Shreveport see congruence in their respective missions and seek the clear opportunity to cooperate and collaborate with each other, leveraging their respective skills and resources, creating a synergy that will advance their respective mission and goals. 

“LSU Health Shreveport looks forward to working with our sister institution in South Louisiana to positively impact statewide nursing shortages. We are confident that working together we can lessen the current challenges on health care systems”, stated Chancellor G. E. Ghali 

PRESS RELEASE – March 5, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 30,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. All locations are drive-thru vaccination sites.

LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue exclusively for Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, this specific group should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should an ID, proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The list of those now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine includes pregnant women and residents with qualifying health conditions age 55-64. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination.  Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES

Brookshire Grocery Arena
Held in partnership with Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City
Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators
Saturday, March 6, 9am – 4pm

Teachers, support staff and daycare workers can go to the site anytime between 9 and 4, but the site will have 2 dedicated lanes at the Brookshire’s site on Saturday from 2pm-4pm. All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine should go to either one of the sites listed below. All locations listed below offer 1^st and 2^nd doses of vaccine.
Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus
(Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport
Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers
ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine. We ask that educators, support staff and daycare workers not bring family members to this location to get the vaccine as the general public is being offered the vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. Educators may access vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8am-4pm daily if they choose and/or want to be vaccinated at the same time as a family member. Teachers may carpool to get the vaccine as multiple individuals in a single car may receive vaccine. The Chevyland location is ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.
Monday – Friday
March 8-12, 12 pm – 5pm (new hours)

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier
Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System
3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport
Site open to the public
Monday – Friday March 8 – 12, 8am – 4pm

Galilee Baptist Church
Offered in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport
Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System
1500 Pierre Street, Shreveport
Thursday, March 11, 9am – 3pm

Arcadia Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet, Arcadia
Tuesday, March 9, 10am – 2pm

Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington, Mansfield
Thursday, March 11, 10am – 2pm

March 4, 2021 - LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport are bringing the first large scale vaccination clinic to Bossier City on Saturday, March 6.  Four thousand three hundred (4300) doses of the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine will be available during the twelve-lane vaccination clinic to be held at the Brookshire Grocery Arena located at 2400 Century Link Center Drive from 9 am to 4 pm.  (Entrance to the vaccine clinic will be on the east side of the Arena. Direct access from Arthur Teague Parkway will not be available.)  

While pre-registration is strongly encouraged, it is NOT required.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu and select the Bossier vaccine site.  Everyone should bring a photo ID and their insurance information.  K-12 teachers, educational support staff and day care worker, should bring proof of their place of employment such as an ID badge or pay stub.  There will be two dedicated lanes for K-12 teachers, staff and day care workers to receive their vaccine from 2-4pm.

In addition to teachers, support staff and daycare workers, others currently eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine under guidelines of the Louisiana Department of Health are:

• Individuals age 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Those age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the following conditions to be eligible for vaccination:  cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, heart disease, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the 55-64 year old age range must indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.
• NOTE: Hypertension (high blood pressure) is NOT a qualifying condition at this time.

This vaccine clinic is supported by the Louisiana Department of Health, the Region 7 Office of Public Health, the Louisiana National Guard along with students and staff of LSU Health Shreveport, Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport staff, nursing students from BPCC, SUSLA and Northwestern University, and staff from many area healthcare providers making this a true community effort. 

At 11:30 am on Saturday, leadership from LSU Health Shreveport and Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport will be available to address questions from the media.  Please plan to meet at the volunteer/staff clinic. 

March 2, 2021 - LSU Health Shreveport announced this evening it will provide second doses of the Pfizer vaccine to individuals who received their first vaccine at a Walgreens Pharmacy.  This announcement is being made due to individuals being notified by Walgreens that the second dose of the vaccine is not available.

Individuals should bring their vaccine card, ID and proof of insurance if available.  Second doses of the Pfizer vaccine only (no Moderna) will be available March 3-5 at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8 am to 4pm.

This large scale community vaccine clinic is made possible by LSU Health Shreveport, CHRISTUS Shreveport Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System with support from the Louisiana Department of Health, Region 7 Office of Public Health, the Louisiana National Guard and BPCC nursing students and numerous community volunteers.

PRESS RELEASE – February 26, 2021

LSU Health Shreveport continues to offer community vaccine clinics to support Northwest Louisiana’s COVID-19 vaccination efforts. To date, LSU Health Shreveport has administered over 30,000 vaccines as the first large-scale vaccine clinic in Louisiana. Individuals will remain in their vehicle to receive vaccine, and will wait for evaluation for 15 minutes after the vaccine.

LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue exclusively for Louisiana educators (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. In an effort to minimize wait times, this specific group should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators. No appointments are provided or needed to receive the vaccine but pre-registration is requested. All individuals should an ID, proof of working as a teacher or support staff such as their W-2, pay stub, or badge, and insurance information.

The list of those now eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine includes pregnant women and residents with qualifying health conditions age 55-64. Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination. Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when pre-registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated. The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. All Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to any site for vaccination. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.

COMMUNITY VACCINE SITES

Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus (Former Chevyland dealership) 2627 Linwood Avenue, Shreveport Site exclusive to teachers, support staff, daycare workers and healthcare workers ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine.

We ask that educators, support staff and daycare workers not bring family members to this location to get the vaccine as the general public is being offered the vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. Educators may access vaccine at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds from 8am-4pm daily if they choose and/or want to be vaccinated at the same time as a family member. Teachers may carpool to get the vaccine as multiple individuals in a single car may receive vaccine.

The Chevyland location is ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.
Monday – Friday March 1-5 and March 8-12
8am - 5pm

Brookshire Grocery Arena Held in partnership with Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport
2000 Centurylink Center Drive, Bossier City Site open to the public with dedicated hours for Louisiana educators Saturday, March 6
9am – 4pm

Teachers, support staff and daycare workers will have 2 dedicated lanes at the Brookshire’s site on Saturday from 2pm-4pm. All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine should go to either one of the sites listed below.

Louisiana State Fairgrounds
Held in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System & Willis-Knighton Health System 3701 Hudson Drive, Shreveport Site open to the public
Monday – Friday March 1-5 and March 8-12
8am – 4pm

Galilee Baptist Church
Offered in partnership with CHRISTUS Shreveport Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System
1500 Pierre Street, Shreveport
Thursdays, March 4 and March 11
9am – 3pm

River Town Market
5115 Cut Off Road, Coushatta
Thursday, March 4 10am – 2pm

Arcadia Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet, Arcadia
Tuesday, March 9 10am – 2pm

Former Walmart Parking Lot
1043 Washington, Mansfield
Thursday, March 11 10am – 2pm

PRESS RELEASE – February 22, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport in collaboration with the Louisiana Department of Health Office of Region 7 is offering a vaccine site at 2627 Linwood Avenue for Caddo teachers (public, private and parochial), K-12 support staff, and day care workers. These specific groups should pre-register at https://redcap.link/NWLAEducators.  All Caddo parish teachers are being informed by Caddo Parish School Board as to whether they will be accessing the vaccine at 2627 Linwood Avenue or another designated site only for Caddo parish teachers. 

The vaccine site at 2627 Linwood remains open to healthcare workers.

Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue – ID, insurance information and proof you are an educator or healthcare worker is required to receive vaccine

Tuesday – Friday, February 22-26
2pm- 5pm
The above times are available ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.  All others who are eligible to receive vaccine should go to the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. 

Saturday, February 27
9am – 4pm
The Saturday vaccination clinic is for teachers, school support staff and daycare workers ONLY.  

All other eligible individuals seeking to get the vaccine in Shreveport should go to either the Louisiana State Fair Grounds,  Galilee Baptist Church or Webster Parish Fair Grounds on times and dates detailed below.  Others currently eligible to receive the vaccine are pregnant women, residents age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions and all those age 65 and above.  

Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

All individuals regardless of whether they are pre-registered or not should bring ID and insurance information when they come to the site for vaccination.  

SHREVEPORT LOCATIONS

1. Louisiana State Fair Grounds - 3701 Hudson Drive
   Monday – Friday (February 22-26)
   8 am – 4 pm
   This location is for first and second doses of the vaccine.  Appointments within a two hour time block will be emailed no later than Saturday for all those who have pre-registered.   Those receiving the second vaccine do NOT need an appointment and are encouraged to come between 8 am and noon when a separate tent/lanes will be available for those getting their second dose. Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
2. Galilee Baptist Church  - 1500 Pierre Street
   Thursday, February 25
   9 am – 3pm     

MINDEN LOCATION
Webster Parish Fair Grounds at 800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, February 23
10 am –3pm
This location is for first doses only.

PRESS RELEASE – February 19, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport is resuming their large-scale community vaccine clinics effective Monday, February 22.  The list of those eligible to receive the vaccine has expanded to include Louisiana teachers, school support staff, day care workers, pregnant women and residents age 55-64 with qualifying health conditions.

Individuals ages 55-64 must have at least one of the qualifying conditions to be eligible for vaccination.  Qualifying health conditions are listed on the Louisiana Department of Health’s website and include cancer, chronic kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Down syndrome, several heart conditions, obesity, sickle cell disease, smoking and Type 2 diabetes. Residents in the new age range will be able to indicate their pre-existing condition(s) when registering at www.lsuhs.edu.

The following groups remain eligible for vaccination: Residents age 65 and older; dialysis providers and patients; health care and dental clinic workers; home care providers and recipients; sign language interpreters and clients who are deaf and blind; lab, mortuary and pharmacy staff; allied health school students, emergency response personnel; and the state’s Unified Command Group.

Almost 1.65 million Louisiana residents now are eligible, according to the governor’s office.

While pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, particularly for those 55-64 with underlying health conditions, pre-registration is NOT a requirement to get vaccinated.  The goal of our community vaccine site is to provide every eligible citizen with access to the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.   

Individuals should bring ID and insurance information when they come to the site for vaccination.  

SHREVEPORT LOCATIONS

1. Louisiana State Fair Grounds - 3701 Hudson Drive
   Monday – Friday (February 22-26)
   8 am – 4 pm
   This location is for first and second doses of the vaccine.  Appointments within a two hour time block  will be emailed no later than Saturday for all those who have pre-registered.   Those receiving the second vaccine do NOT need an appointment and are encouraged to come between 8 am and noon when a separate tent/lanes will be available for those getting their second dose.   Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
2. Galilee Baptist Church  - 1500 Pierre Street
   Thursday, February 25
   9 am – 3pm
   This location is for first and second vaccines. No appointment necessary for those receiving their second vaccine.   
   Re-registration is not required for second doses at any site.
3. Chevyland/LSU Health Shreveport North Campus – 2627 Linwood Avenue
   Tuesday – Friday, February 23-26
   2pm- 5pm
   The above times are available ONLY for healthcare workers, teachers, school support staff and daycare workers.  All others who are eligible to receive vaccine should go to the Louisiana State Fair Grounds. 
   
   Saturday, February 27
   9am – 4pm
   The Saturday vaccination clinic is for teachers, school support staff and daycare workers ONLY.  

MINDEN LOCATION

Webster Parish Fair Grounds
800 Goodwill Drive
Tuesday, February 23
10 am –3pm  
This location is for first doses only.

Vaccine availability reflects the continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community vaccine site is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.    

In support of the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is organizing a virtual National Forum on COVID-19 Vaccine that will bring together practitioners from national, state, tribal, local, and territorial levels who are engaged in vaccinating communities across the nation. The Forum will facilitate information exchange on the most effective strategies to:

• Build trust and confidence in COVID-19 vaccines
• Use data to drive vaccine implementation
• Provide practical information for optimizing and maximizing equitable vaccine access

We are proud to announce that on February 24, 2021, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST Dr. G.E. Ghali, Chancellor for LSU Health Shreveport has been invited to be part of a panel of four people on one of the Town Hall Sessions on the topic of Building Bridges between Public Health and Healthcare Systems to Ensure Equitable Vaccination. Since the onslaught of the pandemic, LSU Health Shreveport has partnered with local, regional and state medical providers to ensure that they have access to the expertise of the researchers and physicians at our institution.

LSU Health Shreveport launched Louisiana’s first mass community vaccine clinic on January 11, 2021 and has since provided the COVID19 Vaccine to over 18,000 Louisiana residents, including communities with limited access to resources. The Community Vaccine Clinic is a partnership effort involving LSU Health Shreveport faculty, students and staff, Region 7 Office of Public Health, Louisiana National Guard, BPCC nursing students, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System.

National Forum on COVID-19 Vaccine is open to anyone and free to register at www.cdc.gov/covidvaccineforum.

Registration closes at midnight Tuesday, February 16, 2021.

The virtual Zoom event will take place on February 22-24, 2021. Attendees may register for one or all sessions, including the Town Hall session with Dr. G.E. Ghali on February 24 at 2:00pm EST.

February 24, 2021 / 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM EST | Town Hall Session 4
Building Bridges between Public Health and Healthcare Systems to Ensure Equitable Vaccination
Creating venues and opportunities for people to be vaccinated is central to ensuring that all Americans who wish to receive a vaccine can. Many people are accustomed to receiving vaccines when accessing routine healthcare services through their trusted providers and hospital systems. Given the central role of the public health system in rapidly expanding immunization delivery, vaccines may not currently be available during routine healthcare services. During this Town Hall, healthcare system leaders, healthcare providers, and government public health leaders will focus on fostering relationships among public health and healthcare and hospital systems to accelerate equitable vaccine implementation to Americans.

• Louito Edje, MD, MHPE, FAAFP | Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education, University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Professor of Family Medicine
• G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS(Ed) | Chancellor, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center – Shreveport
• Michael A. Kaufmann, MD, FACEP, FAEMS | State EMS Medical Director, Indiana Department of Homeland Security
• LaShawn McIver, MD, MPH | Director, Office of Minority Health, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
• Rhonda Medows, MD | President, Providence Population Health Management; Chief Executive Officer, Ayin Health Solutions
• Moderator: Dana Meaney Delman, MD | Medical Officer, National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Moderator: Susanna Visser, DrPH, MS | Associate Director for Policy & Extramural Program, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

PRESS RELEASE – February 10, 2021
Governor John Bel Edwards visited Louisiana’s first mass community vaccine clinic this afternoon to see firsthand just how well the community effort involving LSU Health Shreveport faculty, students and staff, Region 7 Office of Public Health, Louisiana National Guard, BPCC nursing students, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System is working.

Governor Edwards praised all those involved in the community vaccine clinic and interacted with many of those in line to receive the vaccine.

LSU Health Shreveport is pleased to announce additional vaccine was received today allowing vaccinations again tomorrow at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds, Thursday, February 11, for those in Priority Group 1B Tier One, which includes individuals 65 and above. Also in this tier is COVID Emergency Response Personnel, Local Emergency Response and Law Enforcement.

Vaccinations for Priority Group 1B Tier One will also be available in Mansfield tomorrow at the former Wal-Mart Parking Lot at 1043 Washington.

While pre-registration is preferred, it is NOT required. The goal of this community vaccine site is for every eligible citizen to get the vaccine as soon as possible. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.

Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information.

SHREVEPORT
Thursday, February 11
Louisiana State Fair Grounds 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former Wal-Mart Parking Lot 1043 Washington Street 10 am – 2pm

PRESS RELEASE – February 10, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport is encouraging all those in Priority Group 1B Tier One which includes individuals 65 and above as well as COVID Emergency Response Personnel, Local Emergency Response and Law Enforcement to get their COVID-19 vaccine today at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds while the vaccine supply is in hand. As seen around the US, vaccine availability is unpredictable so LSU Health Shreveport is encouraging all individuals who are eligible to receive the vaccine to do so today.  Vaccinations for Group 1B Tier One will also be available in Mansfield tomorrow. 

While pre-registration is preferred, it is NOT required.  The goal of this community vaccine site is for every eligible citizen to get the vaccine as soon as possible.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. 

Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information.

SHREVEPORT
Wednesday, February 10
Louisiana State Fair Grounds
3701 Hudson Drive
8 am to-3:30 pm  

Vaccine availability reflects the continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community vaccine site is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.  

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former WalMart Parking Lot
1043 Washington Street
10 am – 2pm 

LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEEVT) is pleased to announce additional dates and locations for COVID-19 vaccinations.  As of Monday, those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine has been expanded to include Louisiana residents age 65 and over.  To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu.  Am emailed appointment timeframe for those ages 65-69 will be sent in the order in which pre-registration was received.

While pre-registration is not required, it is essential to minimizing wait times and in accurate vaccine allocation. If you are unable to pre-register but are age 65 and older, you are eligible to receive vaccine. Everyone should bring his or her ID and insurance information

SHREVEPORT
Monday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 10
First doses of the vaccine will be administered:
Louisiana State Fair Grounds
3701 Hudson Drive
8 am to-3:30 pm  

ARCADIA
Tuesday, February 9
Parking lot of the former Outlet Mall
700 Factory Outlet Drive
10 am to 2pm

NATCHITOCHES
Thursday, February 18
Ben Johnson Auditorium
400 Martin Luther King Jr Dr.
10 am to 2pm

MANSFIELD
Thursday, February 11
Former Wal-Mart Parking lot 1043 Washington
10 am to 2pm

MINDEN
Tuesday, February 16
Webster Parish Fairgrounds
800 Goodwill Drive
10 am to 2pm

Future offering of vaccines by the CEEVT reflect a continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community healthcare collaboration is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine in concert with the important vaccine distribution occurring in pharmacies, clinics and other locations.  

About LSU Health Shreveport - LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.                       

PRESS RELEASE – February 4, 2021
LSU Health Shreveport’s Center of Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats (CEEVT) is pleased to announce additional dates and locations for COVID-19 vaccinations. As of today, those eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine remains Louisiana residents age 70 and over. While pre-registration is requested, it is not required. To preregister, go to the LSU Health Shreveport website at www.lsuhs.edu. Anyone interested in receiving the vaccine should bring their ID and insurance information.

Those under age 70 may also pre-register to receive the vaccine. Appointment times will be emailed once an individual meets the Louisiana Department of Health criteria to receive the vaccine.

SHREVEPORT

• Friday, February 5 First and second doses of the vaccine will be available:
  Louisiana State Fair Ground 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm
• Monday, February 8 – Wednesday, February 10 First doses of the vaccine will be administered: Louisiana State Fair Grounds 3701 Hudson Drive 8 am to-3:30 pm.

ARCADIA

Tuesday, February 9 Parking lot of the former Outlet Mall 700 Factory Outlet Drive 10 am to 2pm

MANSFIELD

Thursday, February 11, Former Wal-Mart Parking lot 10 am to 2pm

Future offering of vaccines by the CEEVT reflect a continued collaboration with CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System and Willis-Knighton Health System. The goal of this community healthcare collaboration is to provide the fastest possible access to the COVID-19 vaccine.

January 29, 2021 - The School of Allied Health Professionals at LSU Health Shreveport has been awarded an $11,500 grant from the Noel Foundation, Inc.  The grant was presented at a check presentation in front of the Noel Memorial Library this week, and was attended by members of the Noel Foundation Board of Directors.

This is the second grant awarded to the School of Allied Health by the Noel Foundation, and will benefit the school’s Mindful of our Mission to Heal project for the Neurorehabilitation Program. This funding will purchase a state-of-the-art Bioness Integrated Therapy System (BITS) Balance Accessory unit that will interface with the school’s current BITS Cognitive Training system. This equipment will be used to enhance teaching, research, and service in the area of falls assessment and prevention, particularly in the elderly population. Students, clinical residents, and faculty will use this equipment for advanced learning, increased research opportunities, and improved care to the community.

The Neurorehabilitation Program, within the Faculty Rehabilitation Clinic, has delivered life changing care to thousands of neurologically impaired patients since 1987.  The purpose of the Mindful of Our Mission to Heal project is to implement “current best practice” technology capabilities within the Neurorehabilitation Program for the purposes of teaching, research and service to the community. 

“We are thankful for this funding made possible by the Noel Foundation. This equipment will greatly improve the education experience for our students by having advance technology available for our graduate students and residents to learn. It will also aid in the recruitment of additional students to our academic programs.”, said Dr. Suzanne Tinsley, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement, Associate Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences.

The Noel Foundation was established in 1972 as a non-profit organization that supports education, cultural arts, and the community in Shreveport, Louisiana. Their aim is to grow Shreveport both culturally and academically.

About the School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport

The School of Allied Health Professions is comprised of eight academic programs, three post-professional residency programs for physical therapists who hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and three specialized clinics: the Children’s Center which provides developmental and psychological testing and treatment for children, Mollie E. Webb Speech and Hearing Center which offers highly specialized speech and hearing care, and the Rehabilitation Clinic which provides state-of-the-art occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy.

Photo Link. Pictured from left to right:

Dr. Suzanne Tinsley, Associate Professor of Rehabilitation Sciences, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Institutional Advancement at LSU Health Shreveport, Mr. Gilbert R. Shanley, Mr. Merritt B. Chastain- Board President,

Mr. Delton Smith - Board Vice President, Mr. Stacy Williams, Mr. Kevin Flood, President of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation of Shreveport & Dr. Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions

BUSINESS BRIEFS - DATE: January 28, 2021

Keith Scott MD, MSc, FCCM is the newly appointed Medical Director for the Office of Clinical Trial Services at LSU Health Shreveport. Combining his experience not only as a principal investigator on numerous clinical trials but also as a critical care physician for over thirty years, Dr. Scott will provide medical support and oversight for all clinical trials conducted at LSU Health Shreveport. He will also supply input on expanding clinical trial research at LSU Health Shreveport by facilitating investigator-initiated clinical trials, determining feasibility of proposed clinical trials, and seeking new opportunities for public and private collaborations that will benefit the citizens of this region.

Dr. Scott received his undergraduate degree in hospital administration from Florida Atlantic University. He received a medical degree from the University Eugenio Maria De Hostos and completed a residency in Internal Medicine at Robert Wood Johnson University Medical School in Trenton, New Jersey. He completed fellowships in Infectious Diseases at Albany Medical College and in Critical Care at LSU Health Shreveport. Later, he earned a degree in Global Health and Infectious Disease from the University of Edinburg. He also has a Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Dr. Scott is board certified in Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine-Critical Care, and Neurocritical Care. He is currently the Director of Critical Care Research and a Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine and Surgery.

January 26 ‐ Willis‐Knighton Health System has joined LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) in a collaborative agreement to support the existing community COVID‐19 vaccinations program established by LSU Health at the Louisiana State Fair Grounds.

“On behalf of LSU Health Shreveport, I extend my deepest appreciation to Willis‐Knighton Health System for providing vaccine which allows us to continue our efforts to vaccinate those over 70 as quickly as possible. The recent rise in COVID‐19 cases in our community, coupled with the pending arrival of the more infectious COVID mutation, makes timely delivery of the vaccine more important than ever,” stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

Community Vaccine, powered by LSU Health, Willis‐Knighton and CHRISTUS Health Shreveport‐Bossier, in cooperation with the Louisiana Department of Health, follows state health department eligibility guidelines in administering vaccine. Willis‐Knighton will deliver its next shipment of 1,950 doses of vaccine to LSU Health Shreveport and will also provide staff support for vaccination efforts on Wednesday, Jan. 27, and Thursday, Jan. 28. Willis‐Knighton will continue to share vaccine and staff for the community program as vaccine supplies become available.

“This is an example of what can be accomplished when health organizations collaborate to address community needs,” said James K. Elrod, President and CEO of Willis‐Knighton Health System. “As a supporter of LSU Health Shreveport since its inception, we are proud to provide our resources to this effort. We urge patients of Willis‐Knighton to take advantage of this well‐organized community program to receive their vaccine.”

Community Vaccine offers a single point of registration for Louisiana residents to receive vaccine using the established logistics capabilities of LSU Health Shreveport and its medical school. The project is coordinated by infectious disease specialist John Vanchiere, MD, PhD, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, with support by LSUHS students. Critical support is provided by the Louisiana National Guard, and faculty and students of BPCC and SUSLA.

Anyone interested in receiving the vaccine should preregister by visiting the LSU Health Shreveport website: lsuhs.edu where additional details about the process are also found. The vaccines will be administered at four drive‐thru stations in the large parking lot parallel to I‐20 and adjacent to Fair Grounds Field, 3701 Hudson.

About LSU Health Shreveport

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID‐19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

About Willis‐Knighton Health System

Willis-Knighton Health System is a not-for-profit community health system and the largest healthcare  provider in northwest Louisiana. It features three acute care hospitals in Shreveport, one in  Bossier City as well as a hospital in Shreveport offering physical and behavioral rehabilitation services.

January 25, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System will be partnering again on vaccine delivery this Thursday, January 28 at Galilee Baptist Church. The vaccine event is targeted for citizens 70 and older who do not have the ability to register online.

“While our goal has always been to make the vaccine available to all citizens age 70 and over, pre-registration to receive the vaccine has and remains a key element to efficiently deliver the vaccine at the State Fairgrounds. We are blessed that CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System shares our commitment to provide vaccine access to all citizens resulting in this alternate vaccination site at Galilee Baptist Church,” shared G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport.

Our community has been hit hard by this virus. We see these vaccine clinics as a fulfillment of our mission to bring health and healing to our community,” said Steen Trawick, MD, CEO and CMO of CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System. “Our goal with this additional vaccine clinic is to increase access and decrease fear surrounding the vaccine.”

The vaccine clinic will take place Thursday from 9-2 pm at Galilee Baptist Church. Individuals 70 and older should bring their ID and insurance card.

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

ABOUT CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System

A faith-based, not-for-profit health system, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is part of CHRISTUS Health, sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS is among the 10 largest Catholic health systems in the country and one of the 20 largest of all health systems in the nation. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System has provided health care in Northwest Louisiana for over 100 years. Our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. For more information about CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, visit

January 22, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport will be providing COVID-19 vaccinations for those 70 and above on Monday, January 25 and Tuesday, January 26 at the Fairgrounds thanks to the provision of 975 daily doses of the Pfizer vaccine by CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System.

CHRISTUS CEO and CMO, Steen Trawick, M.D., chose to collaborate with LSU Health Shreveport in an effort to expedite community vaccination by using an established and efficient mechanism of distribution. Prior to LSU Health Shreveport depleting their vaccine allocation, they were vaccinating over 1,000 individuals daily. CHRISTUS is providing a shipment of vaccines received this week, as well as additional staff to LSU Health Shreveport to assist in administering the vaccine.

“Our goal is to turn vaccine into vaccinations and get these doses administered as quickly as possible. Being able to partner with LSU Health Shreveport on such a monumental task is vital in vaccinating the most vulnerable in our community. We are stronger and more efficient working together in this battle against COVID-19,” said Dr. Trawick.

The only individuals who will be receiving the vaccine on Monday will those 70 years and above who already had appointments to receive vaccine before the LSU Health Shreveport vaccine allocation was depleted on January 14.  “It is imperative that we resume vaccine distribution to those 70 and over as these citizens are the most vulnerable to becoming critically ill if infected with COVID-19.  We are exceedingly grateful to Dr. Trawick and CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System for their generosity and recognition that LSU Health Shreveport is well positioned to disburse the vaccine quickly and safely with our drive-thru process,” stated G. E. Ghali MD, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

The LSUHS drive-thru vaccine model serves as a compliment to other vaccine distribution channels such as pharmacies, clinics and hospitals. Dr. John Vanchiere, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Director of Vaccine Distribution for LSUHS shared, “Louisiana needs every possible distribution channel to vaccinate all citizens as quickly as possible. Our ability to safely deliver a large number of vaccinations daily is directly attributed to our ongoing partnership with the Louisiana National Guard, the Region 7 Office of Public Health, BPCC and SUSLA.”

Citizens age 70 years and above who have not yet registered to receive the vaccine are encouraged to do so at www.lsuhs.edu. As soon as vaccine becomes available, an email notification with an appointment date and time will be sent to each registrant.

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University System and one of only 154 in the nation.  LSU Health Shreveport is home to the School of Medicine, School of Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise, which has made a significant impact on the COVID-19 response in Louisiana, region and nation.

ABOUT CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System

A faith-based, not-for-profit health system, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is part of CHRISTUS Health, sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word. CHRISTUS is among the 10 largest Catholic health systems in the country and one of the 20 largest of all health systems in the nation. CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System has provided health care in Northwest Louisiana for over 100 years. Our mission is to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. For more information about CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System, visit www.christushealth.org.

January 19, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport has not yet received additional vaccine and therefore does not have a timeframe when vaccinations will resume at the Fairgrounds.

Anyone who was scheduled to receive his or her first COVID-19 vaccine the week of January 18 will be rescheduled via email as soon as vaccine becomes available.  You may also monitor when vaccinations resume at www.lsuhs.edu. 

For those who have not yet registered to receive the vaccine, a registration link will be provided at www.lsuhs.edu once there is available vaccine. 

Individuals who have already received their first vaccine will be receiving their second vaccine.  This important second vaccine will be administered three weeks after the first vaccine at the same location where the original vaccination occurred. 

Healthcare workers should return to their designated location for the second vaccine.

PRESS RELEASE- January 15, 2021

Today the Louisiana Board of Supervisors supported the requested expansion by LSU Health Shreveport and LSU Health New Orleans to expand dental services throughout Louisiana. These institutions feel strongly that the citizens of Louisiana need unrestricted access to oral health services (OHS) for public health, safety and wellness.  The LSU Health New Orleans School of Dentistry and LSU Health School of Medicine-Shreveport expansion initiative, in partnership with Ochsner-LSU Health Shreveport (OLHS), serves to increase general dental services and limited specialty-level dental services to the citizens of the various regions of Louisiana by providing safe, affordable and quality OHS.

The proposed expansion report was spurred by Senate Resolution 190 of the 2019 Regular Session and in response to the Board of Regents study related to that resolution.   

There is a strong documented need for OHS services in central and northern Louisiana. There are an average of 3,397 citizens per general dental practice in Louisiana, which is higher than the current US average of 3,018. There is an average of 6,936 citizens per specialty practice in Louisiana, which is higher than the current US average of 5,783.

Approximately 87.5% of Louisiana is designated as a Dental Health Professional Shortage Area (DHPSA). The state suffers from the uneven distribution of oral healthcare workers with the greatest concentrations in larger metropolitan areas. Of the 64 Louisiana parishes, 3 have no dentist and 23 have 1 to 5 dentists with the highest concentrations in parishes of the northern and central portions of the state.

The proposed plan to expanded oral health services requires an expanded footprint by LSU Heath via dental annexes in partnership with regional hospitals, medical centers, FQHCs and RHCs. The annexes will be strategically placed to allow all Louisiana citizens access to safe and quality dental care. The timeline for accomplishing this goal is structured over three phases over the next 5 years.

Contacts:  
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communications, Public Affairs & Development
318-675-8769 /   Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

PRESS RELEASE URGENT UPDATE 

January 14, 2021- LSU Health Shreveport has depleted their allocated vaccine supply effective today.  We are hopeful our vaccine allocation will increase in the near future.

Individuals who had an appointment to receive the vaccine tomorrow or next week will be notified via email of their rescheduled appointment.  

Individuals who have already received their first vaccine will be able to receive their second vaccination at the same location where they received their original vaccine.  Individuals will be notified by email of their appointment time to receive their second vaccine.  

LSU Health Shreveport will provide an update as quickly as possible on vaccine availability

January 13, 2021 – Shreveport
In accordance with the directive from Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards, LSU Health Shreveport is currently offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine ONLY TO LOUISIANA RESIDENTS AGE 70 AND ABOVE at this time. Individuals under 70 will be advised when the next tier of vaccine is authorized for distribution.  

While the CDC has announced that those 65 and under may receive the vaccine, as of today only those 70 and older are approved to receive in Louisiana.        

Anyone interested in getting the vaccine MUST pre-register at https://redcap.link/LSU-PUBLIC-VACCINE-SURVEY or at www.lsuhs.edu.  Pre-registration is required and essential to minimizing wait time.  After completing the pre-registration to receive the vaccine, individuals will receive email instructions with the date and time to arrive for their vaccine.  This ensures minimal wait times.  If an email detailing the vaccine appointment time is not received by 6pm the day after you register, an incorrect email has been provided.  Those individuals who do not receive an appointment timeframe within 24 hours of registering should go the Fairgrounds to receive the vaccine between the hours of 1pm and 3:30 pm.   

Those pre-registered will be directed to a designated area to receive the vaccine. 

If you do not have access to the internet or a computer, you may still receive vaccine as staff will secure needed information upon arrival. 

Everyone seeking to get the vaccine should:

1) Bring their ID and insurance information even though they are pre-registered.
2) Wear a mask. 
3) Wear clothing with easy access to upper arm where vaccine will be administered. 

Individuals remain in their vehicle to receive vaccine, allowing for safest interaction between those receiving and giving vaccine. 

Where: Fairground Field located at 3701 Hudson.  Go to the parking area of the Fairground that runs alongside Interstate 20.

When: Monday-Friday starting at 8 am.  Anyone arriving before 3:30 pm will receive the vaccine that day.