PRESS RELEASE – February 22
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.                       

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.

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

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 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.

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 UPDATE - JANUARY 10, 2021

LSU Health Shreveport is delaying the start date of administering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to those age 70 years and above until Tuesday, January 12 due to weather forecast.

Due to the number of individuals who have pre-registered to receive the vaccine, a date and time will be emailed instructing individuals when to arrive for their vaccine.  This will ensure minimal wait times.  Anyone who does not receive an email by 6pm tonight providing their vaccine appointment time has provided an incorrect email.  Those individuals will be notified by text before 6pm on Monday of their appointment time on January 13-15.  

January 8, 2021- Shreveport - LSU Health Shreveport will begin offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to those age 70 years and above starting on Monday, January 11. With Monday predicted to have potentially dangerous driving weather, individuals are encouraged to wait and come another day if the weather is dangerous. There will be access to the vaccine to those 70 and over at the Fairgrounds site throughout the week.

Individuals under 70 will be advised when the next tier of vaccine is authorized for distribution.

Anyone interested in getting the vaccine is highly encouraged to 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. Once registered, do not expect to receive an appointment time as individuals may come at the time of their choosing during designated vaccine administration hours. Those pre-registered will be directed to a designated area to get the vaccine.

Individuals that do not have access to the internet or a computer, may still receive the 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 and 3) wear clothing with easy access to upper arm where vaccine will be administered.

Individuals will 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.

__________________________

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- December 16, 2020  Today, the Louisiana Board of Regents unanimously supported a one-year initial approval of the Center for Emerging Viral Threats (CEVT) and one-year conditional designation as a Center of Research Excellence. A proposal for continued authorization is due on February 1, 2022. The Board of Regents approval follows unanimous approval by the LSU Board of Supervisors on December 11 to recognize the Center for Emerging Viral Threats as a Center of Excellence.

Dr. Chris Kevil, Vice-Chancellor for Research at LSUHS shared “We are humbled by the vote of confidence by the Louisiana Board of Regents and the LSU Board of Supervisors as we recognize the honor of being approved as a center of excellence. The faculty and staff of the Center of Emerging Viral Threats are fully committed to deliver the testing, clinical/vaccine trials and research required to move our community beyond this pandemic as quickly as possible. Receiving designation as a Center of Excellence will strengthen our position to compete for grant funding and in preparing for the pandemics of the future.”

The designation as a Center of Excellence is rigorous process and requires proof of the center’s qualifications for the distinction. Qualifications include being a statewide leader in the area of designation, provision of a range of academic, training of research opportunities, a focus on current issues and the ability to advance the strategic goals of the institution and the State of Louisiana.

“The CEVT represents a central priority for the administration and faculty of LSU Health Shreveport through the engagement and intersection of critical public health needs, timely clinical and vaccine trials and delivery, timely and accurate COVID-19 testing, needed basic science and clinical research, key SARS-CoV2 and other pathogen clinical diagnosis, important education and outreach, surveillance, and the required training of future scientists, physicians and other health related work force members, ” stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport.

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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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

PRESS RELEASE – October 30, 2020                
 
AT&T Foundation Serves as Presenting Sponsor for the Second Annual
LSU Health Shreveport HBCU Educational Conference

In a year when few things have gone as planned, the AT&T Foundation made sure that the second annual (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) HBCU Educational Conference hosted by LSU Health Shreveport would be possible. They did so through awarding a $25,000 AT&T Aspire grant to the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation.  The AT&T Aspire Grant is directed to student investment and will be used to support students attending historically black colleges and universities in Louisiana who are exploring career paths in medicine, research and allied health professions through attendance of the 2020 LSU Health Shreveport Virtual HBCU Educational Conference. 
As a component of a comprehensive strategy to recruit more students from priority populations, the LSUHS Office of Diversity Affairs instituted HBCU Day in 2019. The inaugural event, held over two days, garnered over fifty attendees who were interested in learning more about the School of Medicine, School of Allied Health Professions or School of Graduate Studies at LSU Health Shreveport. 

This year’s event is scheduled for November 13 and 14 and will provide insight on curriculum, learning environment, admissions process, financial aid, summer research opportunities, mentoring programs, campus culture, and the student experience. Sixty-eight students from Grambling, Southern University (Baton Rouge, and New Orleans), Xavier and Dillard will be participating in this virtual event. 

“We are proud to support the work being done at LSU Health Shreveport through their HBCU Day to engage with students who are underrepresented in medical fields and encourage them to pursue careers as health professionals,” said Robert F. Vinet, Regional Director, AT&T Louisiana. “LSU Health Shreveport is a leader across the region, and their work to cultivate diversity in the medical field is important to success across all communities.”
Check presentation photo attached.  Standing L to R are:
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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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

MEDIA BRIEF: October 16, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions To honor the late Ike Muslow MD with dedication of commemorative bench

Dr. Ike Muslow is a name synonymous with LSU Health Shreveport based on his outstanding and lengthy service as a Vice-Chancellor and  three time dean of the School of Medicine.  His efforts led to then LSU Medical School Hospital being recognized as the most profitable public hospital in the United States in 1991.  Additional achievements include the establishment of the burn and transplant units and construction of the Feist Weiller Cancer Center, Women and Children’s Outpatient Clinic and the Radiation Therapy Center.  He also oversaw the establishment of three centers of excellence – cancer research, arthritis and rheumatology and clinical and forensic toxicology.  As a revered internist, he is fondly remembered by the hundreds of medical students who benefitted from his extraordinary ability to accurately diagnose a patient without ever running a test.   One of his most impactful leadership roles was as the founder of the LSU Health Shreveport Foundation which now manages over $200 million in assets for the benefit of LSU Health Shreveport. 

“Dr. Ike Muslow was a giant among those who have advocated for and loved LSU Health Shreveport. He was still teaching during his last hospital stay and never ceased promoting every aspect of our health sciences center to include the School of Allied Health Professions where he received his physical therapy.  He deserves every recognition he receives for his incalculable impact to medical education, healthcare and research in our region,” stated LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD, FACS, FRCS (Ed) 

The School of Allied Health Professions is honoring Dr. Muslow’s long term support today at 2pm by providing new landscaping and installing an engraved bench for patients to rest as they are arriving and leaving the clinic.  Many patients accessing rehabilitation at the Outpatient Faculty Clinic have significant mobility issues resulting in the idea for creating a peaceful resting place just outside the clinic entry.  Leadership and faculty who worked with Dr. Muslow, both as a leader and patient, found him to be a resting place for friendship and guidance leading to the dedication of a bench in his  honor.     

Dr. Muslow died on January 18, 2020 at the age of 93 in his home.  
   
Dr. Muslow’s wife (Berte) and other members of his immediate family will attend the physically distanced, mask wearing dedication ceremony today, October 16 at 2pm the School of Allied Health Professions located at 1450 Claiborne Avenue.  LSU Health Shreveport faculty and employees along with the media are invited to attend the dedication ceremony.

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication Public Affairs and Development
318-675-8769  office /  318-458-0166 cell
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

PRESS RELEASE 
October 15, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport Leads Louisiana
in COVID-19 VIRAL GENOME SEQUENCING

The Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab at LSU Health Shreveport has now sequenced a total 651 Louisiana SARS-CoV-2 virus genomes making them the largest contributor to date of genetic data on SARS-CoV-2 in the state.  SARS-CoV-2, which is short for ‘Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2,’ is the virus that causes COVID-19, and viral genome sequencing is contributing to a worldwide effort to fight the ongoing pandemic.

LSU Health Shreveport is working closely with GISAID which after years of experience with influenza epidemics, has now also emerged as the world’s go-to data resource, exclusively enabling real-time data analyses that drive crucial results for targeted responses to the SARS-CoV-2.  Responses to date include but are not limited to identification of potential drug and vaccine targets, evidence that the virus has not drifted to a significant strain difference, and development of diagnostic kits for future mutations of COVID-19.  Scientists can rapidly and openly access data through GISAID’s extensive network of researchers providing the timely generation of curated genomic data through a collaborative effort. “Dr. Jeremy Kamil and his colleagues at LSU Health Shreveport are much respected for their quality work in genome sequencing and their interactions with GISAID’s data curation teams placed across the globe”, says GISAID’s Cheryl Bennett.

GISAID is currently reporting 1,361 total virus genomes from Louisiana, of which 651 (48 %) are from LSU Health Shreveport.  Others submitting genome sequencing data for Louisiana are Tulane, Scripps, BioInfo Experts, LSU Baton Rouge, Gingko Bioworks, the CDC, and University of Washington.

There are numerous reasons why genomic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is important.  These include being able to tell how many times the virus has been introduced into a nursing home, school, or workplace, helping public health officials determine if control measures such as social/physical distancing are working, or whether an outbreak is due to a so-called “super-spreader” event. Sequencing also provides critical surveillance for whether any mutations are emerging that could allow the virus to escape antibodies or vaccines.  “We have found only one mutant so far, a spike mutation called F490L, that might help the virus resist the protective effects of antibodies.  But the fact we’ve only seen it once suggests it is either detrimental to the virus or at least does not provide any real-world advantage for the virus,” shared Jeremy Kamil PhD, a virologist and lead in genomic sequencing at LSUHS.  As the virus replicates, new mutations occur.  “Most of the mutations detected during sequencing are harmless to the virus and do not impact the clinical course of the disease it causes.  However, these mutations provide a unique “bar code” to allow scientists to trace SARS-CoV-2 outbreak clusters,” Dr. Kamil likens a unique “bar code” to a misspelled word in a book chapter, which can be identified by that mistake every time the book is photocopied.  Specific combinations of mutations in a given genome are passed along every time the virus infects a new person, and can be used to trace transmission chains. On a larger scale, keeping track of the “sub-strains” or “variants” and their mutations, by sequencing the virus from patient samples, is essential for understanding how it is spreading in the region and around the world.  For instance, this type of genetic data allowed scientists to discern that SARS-CoV-2 mostly came to the United States via Europe and not from China directly.  With the EVT Lab processing more than 8,000 COVID-19 test samples per week, sequencing of the virus from COVID-19 positive samples is helping scientists understand how SARS-CoV-2 is spreading within our community.  

The nursing home COVID testing program is being led by LSUHS physician scientist John Vanchiere MD PhD.  This testing has been instrumental to genomic sequencing in north Louisiana and has resulted in one of the lowest nursing home positivity rates in the nation at an average of 2%.  

THE LSUHS COVID-19 sequencing has been a collaborative effort with MiGS, the Microbial Genome Sequencing Center of Pittsburgh, PA, which sequences viral genomes directly from patient RNA samples purified by Dr. Rona Scott, Professor of Microbiology and Immunology. 

To visualize sequences, go to https://nextstrain.org/community/emmahodcroft/south-usa-sarscov2/south-central?f_division=Louisiana

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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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

PRESS RELEASE
OCTOBER 8, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport and Grambling State University (GSU) sign
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
establishing Guaranteed Interview Program in School of Medicine

A Memorandum of Understanding (“Agreement”) establishing a Guaranteed Interview (“GI”) Program between Louisiana State University Health Shreveport School of Medicine (“LSU Health Shreveport-SOM”) and Grambling State University (“GSU”) will be signed in the Black and Gold Room in the Favrot Student Union at Grambling State University at 11 am on October 8.

The MOU represents the desire of both parties to increase the number of African American and Hispanic students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU’s) 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 mission of Grambling State University has always been to create opportunities that facilitate scholarly advancement,” said Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, Jr. “The MOU with LSU Health Shreveport creates a seamless pathway for our students to pursue advanced degrees in the medical sciences.”

The Guaranteed Interview Program attests that GSU 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. “This landmark agreement provides LSU Health Shreveport an opportunity to propel our message that every student belongs to our learning communities, and it further helps us increase the percentage of African American and Hispanic students who apply, matriculate, and ultimately graduate from our institution”, says Dr. G.E. Ghali.

Those signing the agreement are: LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor G.E. Ghali, DDS, MD, Grambling State University President Rick Gallot, JD, 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 include: Associate Dean for Student and Diversity Affairs, Debbie Chandler, MD, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Diversity Affairs, Toni Thibeaux, PhD, Assistant Dean of Admissions, Wanda Thomas, MD, and Consultant to LSU Health Shreveport, Markey Pierre, DBA. Representing Grambling State University are Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Connie Walton, PhD and Head of Biology, Dagne Hill, PhD.

University Contacts:

Lisa S. Babin 
LSU Health Shreveport                                                                   
Executive Director of Communication and Public Affairs                                                             
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu                                                         
318-675-8769 office                                                        
318-458-0166 cell

Tisha Arnold
Grambling University
Director of University Communication and Strategic Management Services
arnoldt@gram.edu
318-274-0000 office

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: October 5, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport gains approval for Clinical Informatics Fellowship

The Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education recently approved the addition of the 23rd fellowship training program at LSU Health Shreveport.  The new Clinical Informatics Fellowship represents the subspecialist of all medical specialties transforming healthcare by analyzing, designing, implementing, and evaluating information and communication systems to improve patient care, enhance access to care, advance individual and population health outcomes, and strengthen the clinician-patient relationship.

The Clinical Informatics fellowship is a 2 year fellowship that is a combination of inpatient rotations with the above participating sites and online courses that are offered through the supporting universities. The fellowship has a complement of 4, with 2 fellows each PGY year. Through the courses made available, fellows have the opportunity to obtain a professional Master of Health Informatics (MHI) degree from Louisiana Tech University. Once fellowship is completed, fellows are eligible for ABMS board certification.

Stephen Conrad MD, PhD, MS, MSE, MBA,  MSST,  MSc, Professor of Professor of Medicine, Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, and Anesthesiology and holder of the Ike Muslow  MD  Endowed Chair in Healthcare Informatics will serve as the Program Director for this fellowship.

LSU Health Shreveport is the only location in Louisiana offering a Clinical Informatics Fellowship. Graduate medical education at LSU Health Shreveport currently offers 41 ACGME accredited programs and 3 CODA approved programs with a total of 571 residents and fellows.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport 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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication, Public Affairs and Development Office: 318—675-8769 / lbabi@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
October 1, 2020
 
LSU Health Shreveport Announces Dr. Steven Bailey, Chair of Internal Medicine As 2020-2021 Mastership Recipient by the American College of Physicians

Steven Roderick Bailey MD, MSCAI, MACP, FACC, FAHA, Chairman of Internal Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, has been named by the American College of Physicians (ACP) Awards Committee as a 2021 Mastership recipient. Dr. Bailey is only the fourth member of the LSU Health Shreveport faculty and one of only fifteen Louisiana physicians to have received this prestigious designation. He was informed of the award by Dr. Angela C. Johnson Governor of the Louisiana Chapter of the American College of Physicians. The award will be formally presented in 2021 at the ACP Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida.

ACP bylaws state that Masters shall be Fellows who have been selected because of "integrity, positions of honor, impact in practice or in medical research, or other attainments in science or in the art of medicine. Masters must be highly accomplished persons demonstrating impact in practice, leadership, or in medical research. Evidence of their achievements can come from many types of endeavors such as renown within their field and/or ACP chapter, research, education, health care initiatives, volunteerism, administrative positions, care of patients, and service to their community. The first Mastership in the College was presented in 1923 to Dr. James M. Anders, for his extraordinary service to the College and for being one of the most outstanding internists and medical teachers of that time. Masters may designate their achievement by use of MACAP as part of their title to publicly acknowledge this achievement.

Dr. Bailey was recruited to LSU Health Shreveport in 2018 from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio where he was a tenured professor of Medicine and Radiology and Chief of the Janey and Dolph Briscoe Jr. Division of Cardiology. He specializes in Interventional Cardiology and Cardiovascular Disease and currently holds the Malcolm Feist Chair in Interventional Cardiology.

Dr. Bailey is a Master Fellow of the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography (SCAI), a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a Fellow of the American College of Physicians, as well as the Association of University Cardiologists, the Association of Cardiology Professors and the International Andreas Greuntzing Society. He has been extremely active with the American Heart Association as an advocate, educator and fundraiser. Dr. Bailey is a prolific researcher and has published multiple scientific and peer reviewed articles. He is currently the Editor-in-Chief for the journal Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions, which is the official publication of SCAI.

“I congratulate Dr. Bailey on this meaningful recognition of his contributions to medicine at the national, regional and local level. We are fortunate to have recruited Dr. Bailey to LSU Health Shreveport as he is doing an excellent job in leading the largest clinical department in our health sciences center” stated LSU Health Shreveport Chancellor, G. E. Ghali, DDS, MD.

Contact: Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication and Public Affairs
Office: 318-675-8769
Cell: 318-458-0166
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 29, 2020

EMERGING VIRAL THREAT (EVT) LAB AT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT 
SHARES IMPACT DURING ITS FIRST SIX MONTHS OF OPERATION

The Emerging Viral Threat Lab at LSU Health Shreveport has processed over 110,000 COVID-19 test samples from multiple public health regions of the state and created over 170,000 test kits which were distributed throughout the state during its first six months of operation. Based on today’s CDC report of 11,348,492 tests having been processed nationally, LSU Health Shreveport has processed almost 0.1% of all COVID tests in the US during its’ first six months of operation.  The EVT Lab is currently processing 0.13% of all daily testing in the US based on an average of 1,300 tests per day compared to the US average of a 1,000,000 tests being processed each day.  

Strategic sample collection in north Louisiana nursing homes by the Emerging Viral Threat Lab Strike Team has utilized the EVT Lab’s strong diagnostic potential to result in one of the lowest nursing home positivity rates in the nation at 2%, as there are currently over 33 states with nursing home positivity rates above 5% with some as high as 20%.  This favorable positivity rate is due to the ongoing testing of residents and staff using an efficient and rapid qPCR testing, which is over 99.7% reliable.    

Data from the Emerging Viral Threat Lab is also contributing to understanding the COVID-19 mutation in Louisiana, how it arrived as well as sharing key data with the national genome databank. LSUHS researchers working with sequencing partner, MiGS Center in Pittsburgh, PA, have completed viral genome sequencing of 159 SARS-CoV-2 genomes of which 158 are from Louisiana and 1 from Texas.   These genomes are shared on the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISIAD) which is the central repository for SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus genome sequencing data.   Mirroring the global and U.S. trends, virtually all of the LSUHS sequences have the D614G mutation in the viral Spike protein, which is hypothesized by some scientists to increase transmission, although there is no evidence that the mutation affects disease severity.  Interestingly, out of a total of 817 completed genomes from Louisiana, the EVT Lab found the only recorded instance in Louisiana of an ancestral D614 virus.  As of today (29 September), the GISAID database shows 27,263 SARS-CoV-2 genome sequences from the United States, and 107,014 worldwide.  LSU Health Shreveport is continuing to sequence the viral genomic RNA from COVID-19 test samples and has an additional 138 sequences in process.  The EVT Lab is collaborating with expert genomic epidemiologists to determine the estimated date the SARS-CoV-2 virus entered Louisiana as well as the most likely routes by which the virus came into the state.   

The LSUHS Emerging Viral Threat Lab is also impacting clinical care as the serology testing has made it possible for patients at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center as well as other community hospitals to have access to convalescent plasma.  Serology testing is required to match donated plasma from recovered COVID patients with current COVID-19 patients in need of antibodies from plasma.  

The EVT Lab continues to bring new technologies to LSUHS and to grow its automated capabilities to increase diagnostic testing capacity.  The lab is also developing new testing capabilities that will allow the lab to be prepared for the expected combined increase in Influenza and Coronavirus infections this fall.  The EVT Lab functions as a reference lab serving communities through outreach and public surveillance while simultaneously working closely with public health officials and scientists to provide the most effective and timely diagnostic tools.  

###

ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport 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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu. 

Contact:
Lisa S. Babin
Executive Director of Communication, Public Affairs and Development
Office: (318) 675-8769
Lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Interviews available upon request with EVT Lab leadership

PRESS RELEASE - Date: September 23, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions receives approval for establishment of the first Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD) in Louisiana

The Louisiana Board of Regents voted unanimously today to approve the creation of the first Doctorate of Occupational Therapy in Louisiana. This vote follows unanimous approval by the LSU Board of Supervisors at their April board meeting.

The first class will be admitted in May of 2022 with the last admission to the current Master’s of Occupational Therapy occurring in May of 2021. The first graduates of the doctoral OTD will occur in May of 2025. At that time, graduates will be eligible to sit for the national licensure examination, the National Board for Certification of Occupational Therapy (NBCOT). Our Occupational Therapy program has had a 100% pass rate on the NBCOT for the past ten years.

The creation of this doctoral program will eliminate the need for Louisiana students to pursue this advanced degree out of state and allows pursuit of specialized practice areas and expanded faculty and research opportunities. “We are proud to be trailblazers in the state of Louisiana for excellence in academic opportunities that are meaningful and relevant to our citizens. The leadership and commitment of our OT faculty to develop and implement this advanced OTD program will produce an enduring impact on the future students and our communities,” said Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions.

Occupational therapy is a high demand field as reflected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics projection of a 17.9% employment growth for occupational therapists between 2018 and 2028. In that period, an estimated 23,700 new jobs are predicted to become available. According to US News, these positions are not only in demand but provide a meaningful career as occupational therapy is #28 in the top 100 most desirable jobs in the US.

Currently occupational therapists are playing a key role in the COVID-19 pandemic as OT’s are instrumental in helping patients regain the ability to perform the daily activities necessary for self- sufficiency and independence. Occupational therapists also address barriers that occur due to the social and emotional issues resulting from being quarantined.

To learn more about the occupational therapy program at LSU Health Shreveport, visit www.lsuhs.edu/sahp.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport 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. Over 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 5 50 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. For more information, go to www.lsuhs.edu.

CONTACT:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development
Office:  (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166    
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 21, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport Expands Enrollment Ages in Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 Vaccine Study
LSU Health Shreveport is expanding enrollment in the Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 vaccine study for the next two weeks to include individuals ages 16-18 and those older than 85 years of age. Those interested in participating in this important vaccine trial should sign up as quickly as possible.

LSU Health Shreveport began the Pfizer sponsored vaccine trial on September 3 and has been very successful in enrolling participants. The trial will further expand in October allowing individuals ages 12-15 to participate.

The trial remains a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an mRNA vaccine to prevent illness due to the SARS-CoV2 virus. The vaccine will be administered by injection.  Further details  of the study can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov.

LSU Health Shreveport discoveries were licensed earlier this year by global biopharma firm BioNTech and serve as a key building block of Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine currently in Phase 2/3 safety and efficacy clinical study.

Criteria for this vaccine study requires that participants be in good general health, not pregnant and have not been previously diagnosed with COVID-19. An assessment by the principal investigator  of this study will determine individuals risk for contracting the COVID-19 by understanding one’s type of work, lifestyle and all medical conditions. All those interested in being a part of this vaccine trial should promptly complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey. The survey can be found  on the LSU Health Shreveport website at lsuhs.edu/coronavirus.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport 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. Over 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 550 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. For more information, go to www.lsuhsc.edu

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE

LSU Health Shreveport & LSU Shreveport
Join together to collect supplies for Hurricane Laura victims

September 11/Shreveport – LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS)  and LSU Shreveport  (LSUS)  are joining forces to collect needed items for Hurricane Laura victims as community service is a hallmark for both campuses as well as for Southfield School and Loyola Prep which kicked off the effort.

A shipping container to house donated items will be available at LSU Health Shreveport from Friday, September 11 at 3pm until 7pm on Tuesday, September 15 at the BRI Curb. LSU Shreveport will accept items at the Pioneer Heritage Center from 8am on Wednesday,  September 16 through 5pm on Friday, September 18. Both schools encourage their students and staff to contribute along  with their local alumni. The general public is also invited to contribute to this Hurricane Laura supply drive.

Requested items include:
•    Diapers, Wipes
•    Children’s Socks & Underwear
•    Snack Crackers
•    Paper Towels, Trash Bags, Work Gloves
•    Bar Soap, Dish Soap, Shampoo, Sponges
•    Toothbrushes, Toothpaste
•    Toilet Paper
•    Batteries, Razors, Insect Repellant
•    Tarps, box fans, and flashlights

“LSU Health Shreveport is pleased to be working with our fellow LSU university to help those in south Louisiana who were hit hard by Hurricane Laura,” shared LSUHS Chancellor G. E. Ghali MD.
Dr. Larry Clark stated, “Hurricane Laura has had a devastating impact on our state, leaving many communities without basic necessities. This effort is just one way we can help our neighbors to the south regain some semblance of normalcy in their daily lives.”
 

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development LSU Health Shreveport
Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Wendell Riley, Director of Media and External Relations Louisiana State University Shreveport
Office: 318-797-5108
Cell: 540-239-0046
wendell.riley@lsus.edu
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: September 3, 2020

LSU Health Shreveport begins enrollment
in Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 Vaccine Study 

LSU Health Shreveport has begun enrollment in the Pfizer-sponsored COVID-19 vaccine study.  This is a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of an mRNA vaccine to prevent illness due to the SARS-CoV2 virus. The vaccine will be administered by injection. Further details of the study can be found at https://clinicaltrials.gov. 

LSU Health Shreveport discoveries were licensed earlier this year by global biopharma firm BioNTech and serve as a key building block of Pfizer’s mRNA vaccine currently in Phase 2/3 safety and efficacy clinical study.

Adults 18-85 years old who are not pregnant, in good general health and have not been previously diagnosed with COVID-19 can participate in the study once approved by the principal investigator. An assessment on each individuals risk for contracting the COVID-19 includes understanding one’s type of work, lifestyle and all medical conditions.  All those interested in being a part of this vaccine trial should promptly complete the COVID-19 Vaccine Interest Survey. The survey can be found on the LSU Health Shreveport website at lsuhs.edu/coronavirus.

Currently, there are no approved vaccines available to prevent COVID-19. This disease has spread across the world. This COVID-19 vaccine study will enroll up to 30,000 adults, and each person involved plays a powerful role. Joining a clinical trial is an important and personal decision. 

“LSU Health Shreveport is excited to continue our impact on the COVID-19 pandemic by serving as a site for this Pfizer-sponsored vaccine trial. Having our discoveries play a key role in the availability of this worldwide vaccine trial is another example of the strength of our basic science faculty”, stated Dr. G. E. Ghali, Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport.  

The principal investigator for this vaccine trial is John Vanchiere MD PhD, Professor of Infectious Disease and Pediatrics and a NIH funded researcher.  He is currently serving as the leader of the COVID -19 Strike Team providing testing in 98% of Region 7 nursing homes and in other strategic communities.   
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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport 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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu. 

CONTACTS:
Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs, Communications and Development
Office: (318) 675-8769 | Cell: (318) 458-0166
Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu 
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BUSINESS BRIEF
DATE:  September 2, 2020

Dr. Hugo Cuellar named Chairman of the Department of Radiology

Hugo Cuellar, MD, PhD, MBA, DABR has been named Chairman of the Department of Radiology at LSU Health Shreveport effective September 1, 2020. 

Dr. Cuellar is a Professor of Radiology, Neurosurgery and Neurology and serves as Director of Neuroendovascular Surgery and Neuroimaging and Co-Director of the Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Thrombectomy Capable Stroke Center, which is 1 of only 10 American Heart Association Stroke Certified Thrombectomy Centers in the US.

He completed his internship and residency at the University of Neuvo Leon in Mexico followed by fellowships at LSU Health New Orleans and Hospital Nuestra Senora del Rosario in Spain and an observership at John Hopkins Hospital in interventional neuroradiology. His advanced studies include receiving a Master’s in Neuroscience from the University of Madrid, a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain and his MBA with a healthcare concentration from the University of Texas in Dallas. 

Dr. Cuellar has presented nationally and internationally and is a member of numerous national and international societies including the Radiological Society of North America, the European Society of Neuroradiology, and the World Federation of Interventional and Therapeutic Neuroradiology. 

LSU Health Shreveport Appoints New PR Coordinator

Shreveport, LA –Jazmin Jernigan, MBA has been named as the Public Relations Coordinator for LSU Health Shreveport. Jernigan is a Shreveport native with deep community ties and years of volunteer service.  She brings in-depth marketing, design, content creation, and business communication experience to the position. She was a 2014 “40 Under 40” honoree, a 2016 Athena Leadership Award honoree,  serves as the treasurer for the LSUS Alumni Board of Directors, and on the board of the Shreveport Symphony Orchestra.

Jernigan holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts and a master’s degree in Business Administration from LSUS.
 

PRESS RELEASE

Shreveport, LA (September 1, 2020) – LSU Health Shreveport announces the creation of three new endowed scholarships and two new endowed professorships. Private donations of $360,000 will be combined with $140,000 in matching funds from the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund to create these endowments.

Leveraging donor dollars through the Louisiana Board of Regents Support Fund matching program provides more impact for each dollar invested. Endowed gifts serve as a reliable source of income for institutions and in many ways are crucial to funding their continual success. Endowed scholarships provide funds to supplement the cost of a student’s education and make medical education accessible to talented and deserving students. Recipients of endowed scholarships are among a select group of the best and brightest students, who will join the ranks of our most distinguished medical alumni. Likewise, endowed professorships allow LSUHS to recruit and retain superior faculty. These endowments provide crucial support for faculty-led research, departmental enhancement, and educational development.

“Supporting our students and faculty remains a top priority at LSUHS” said Chancellor Dr. G.E. Ghali. “We thank our visionary donors for their commitment to the future success of our health sciences center and positively impacting higher education in Louisiana. Gifts such as these allow LSUHS to continue to lead the region in providing exemplary medical care, conducting ground-breaking research, and educating the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

Superior Graduate Student Scholarships

Lester Wayne Johnson Family Scholarship for Medical Students - Dr. Lester Wayne Johnson has served on the faculty of LSU Health Shreveport in Monroe for 24 years and assumed the position of Vice Chancellor for Monroe Clinical Affairs on July 1, 2016. A well-respected surgeon both locally and nationally, Dr. Johnson has made his home and practice in Northeast Louisiana his entire life. This scholarship will be used to attract exceptional candidates from Louisiana to enroll in LSUHS School of Medicine and offset a portion of the financial barrier facing students wishing to enter medical school.

Tommy Brown, MD Memorial Scholarship for Medical Students - On December 29, 2017, the Shreveport medical community and LSU Health Shreveport lost favorite son and brilliant cardiologist Tommy Brown to a brief but courageous battle with heart disease. Soon after his death, two of his closest friends, Dr. Paul “Corky” Davis and Mike Echols, sprang to action to honor their fallen friend. Corky and Mike engaged the LSUHS Foundation in a fundraising effort that raised over $98,000 for an endowed scholarship in Tommy’s memory. This scholarship will help defray the cost of tuition for a medical student hailing from a rural community in Louisiana.

Sandra and Jerry Martin Endowed Scholarship for Medical Students - Dr. Cindy Martin, an alumna of the Shreveport School of Medicine (who now resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota), has graciously donated to the Health Sciences Foundation to endow a second scholarship for medical students at LSU Health Shreveport. Her first endowed scholarship was created in 2018 for the same purpose. This scholarship continues to honor the legacy of her parents, Sandra and Jerry Martin. Sandra and Jerry are educators in Ashland, Louisiana, and Cindy credits them for inspiring her to achieve academic and professional excellence. This scholarship will help defray the cost of tuition for a medical student hailing from a rural community in North Louisiana.

These scholarships are critical to help meet the current and future shortage of physicians practicing in rural communities.

Professorships

David N. Cole Endowed Professorship for Community Health Initiatives in the School of Allied Health Professions - Margaret M. Shehee and David N. Cole have a long history of providing philanthropic support to areas of critical need in Northwest Louisiana. The Cole Professorship will build a competitive health and wellness research program by investing in talented faculty educators in the School of Allied Health Professions. The recipient will pursue initiatives that support health and wellness in underserved communities, including academic research into the nutritional concerns plaguing these parishes.

Max M. Morelock Professorship in Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery - Jasmine Morelock-Field was an accomplished artist and educator who enjoyed engaging children in creative painting. Married for 50 years to Max M. Morelock, she had two children, Maurice and Valerie. Both Max and Jasmine were grateful for the care they received at LSU Health Shreveport from Dr. Cherie-Ann Nathan in the Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. As a result, Jasmine and her son Maurice have supported medical research in the Department for the past six years and at LSU Health Sciences Center as a whole for over sixteen years. With this endowed professorship, the Morelocks hope to recruit faculty interested in bioinformatics or genomics, memorialize Max and Jasmine in perpetuity, and provide a consistent source of funding to Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. Sadly, Jasmine passed away in late December 2019 before she could see this endowed professorship become a reality.

BUSINESS BRIEFS
DATE: August 26, 2020

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Assistant Dean for Admissions announced for 
LSUHS School of Medicine

Chancellor Ghali shares, "I am pleased to announce that Dr. Wanda Thomas has been selected as the new Assistant Dean for Admissions for the School of Medicine replacing Dr. Scott Kennedy who recently retired to begin enjoying his well-deserved retirement. I extend my deepest appreciation to Dr. Scott Kennedy for his forty-four years of dedicated service to our institution.  He began his career at LSUHS as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology before becoming Coordinator of Student Admissions in 1987.  He retired as the Associate Dean of Student Admissions." 

Dr. Thomas received an undergraduate degree in biology from Yale University in New Haven, CT and medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans followed by a pediatric residency at LSU Health Shreveport. She joined the LSUHS faculty in 2003 and is currently serving as Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and as a Pediatric Hospitalist at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center.  She has served as the AHEC Program Director for LSU Health Shreveport since July 2013. 

Dr. Thomas is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Association of Academic Minority Physicians, Northwest Louisiana Pediatric Society, National Association of Minority Educators and a Gold Humanism Society Member.  She is actively serving our health sciences center as a Pediatric Interest Group Faculty Mentor, on the Pediatric Junior Clerkship Curriculum Committee, Internal Medicine/Pediatric Resident Promotion Committee and the LSU Health Shreveport Professionalism Committee. Dr. Thomas is very active in our community speaking at dozens of community events and serving on numerous community boards.

Congratulations to Dr. Thomas on her appointment and the LSUHS family wishes Dr. Kennedy well in his retirement.

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BUSINESS BRIEF

LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT MOBIL COVID-19 TESTING LOCATIONS

No pre-registration required for this free COVID-19 testing which occurs inside vehicle.  Results provided electronically by the LSUHS Emerging Viral Testing Lab within 48-72 hours.

Shreveport Testing – Valid ID required.
Thursday, September 3                 8am – 3pm
Thursday, September 10               8am – 3pm
Galilee Baptist church, 1500 Pierre Avenue, Shreveport, LA  

Springhill Testing – ID and insurance card required.
Those without insurance will be tested by providing a valid ID. 
Wednesday, September 9, 8 am-noon
Former STAGE department store parking lot, 571 South Main

PRESS RELEASE

Living Well Foundation Sponsors Mobile COVID Testing 
August 23, 2020- Shreveport & Monroe - In collaboration with Living Well Foundation and the City of Monroe, the LSU Health Shreveport Emerging Viral Threat (EVT) Lab has scheduled a Mobile COVID-19 Testing Event in Monroe.  Free mobile testing will be available at Monroe City Hall on Tuesday, August 25, 2020 from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Since late April, mobile testing vans from LSU Health Shreveport have been traveling back and forth across Caddo Parish and North Louisiana, offering free COVID-19 testing in underserved areas. These efforts have reached over 5400 citizens.  Recognizing the need to expand this life-saving testing to our campus in Monroe, LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) leadership reached out to Living Well Foundation for help.  Living Well Foundation responded with a $20,000 grant to provide mobile testing in Monroe.  A check presentation will occur at 10 am with Jesse Gilmore, Vice President of Development with the LSUHS Foundation, Dr. Lester Wayne Johnson, Vice-Chancellor for Clinical Affairs for LSU Health in Monroe, Dr. Jennifer Singh, Medical Director for LSU Health Shreveport mobile COVID-19 testing, and Alice Prophit, President/CEO of Living Well Foundation in attendance.

“During the challenges experienced by our communities from the COVID-19 crisis, the Living Well 
Foundation initiated a special grant cycle to support disaster and crisis recovery as much as 
possible.  With this grant, we know the need for testing and ongoing attention to the COVID-19 
impact in our region is important.  The LSU Health Sciences Foundation, with the Monroe campus of the Ochsner LSU Health System, have both partnered with us to ensure these services are provided with ongoing viability.  We are pleased to assist LSU Health Sciences Foundation in a valuable service for the communities and people served.”  Alice M. Prophit, President/CEO of Living Well Foundation.

Jennifer Singh, MD, associate professor of medicine at LSU Health Shreveport, and medical director of Partners in Wellness is pleased to bring mobile COVID-19 testing to underserved citizens of the Monroe area.  Dr. Singh comments, “testing in the community is more important than ever, as we continue to open businesses and schools across Louisiana. It’s very encouraging to see that most people who arrive for testing are wearing masks and taking precautions. We’re thankful that Living Well shares our commitment to making testing easy and 
accessible.”

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT
LSU Health Shreveport is one of two Health Sciences Centers of the Louisiana State University 
System and one of only 154 in the nation. LSUHS is home to the School of Medicine, School of 
Graduate Studies and School of Allied Health Professions, and a robust research enterprise. Almost 
900 students are enrolled in the degree programs along with over 500 residents and fellows. The 
primary mission of the LSU Health Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance 
the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong 
faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and 
scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide 
primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region.
LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion 
that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

ABOUT LIVING WELL FOUNDATION
The Living Well Foundation is a public non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, 
wellness, and quality of life in northeast Louisiana. Founded in 2006, the Living Well Foundation 
serves the residents of Caldwell, Franklin, Jackson, Lincoln, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland and 
Union Parishes. For more information about the Foundation, visit
www.livingwellfoundation.net
 

PRESS RELEASE
DATE: August 18, 2020

School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport
Welcomes First Students in New PhD in Rehab Science Program

The first students in the newest degree program at the School of Allied Health Professions (SAHP), a PhD in Rehabilitation Science, started their coursework virtually on August 17. This inaugural class is comprised of four students - Stephanie Currie, Jillian Danzy, Damian Duhon and Erin McAllister.

The PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences was approved earlier this year by the Louisiana Board of Regents and the LSU Board of Supervisors in response to the rising need for allied health faculty and providers in clinical, research and academic settings.  The need for doctoral level Rehabilitation Sciences faculty is increasing as demands across the disciplines of Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT), Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Physician Assistant (PA), Respiratory Therapy (RT), and Medical Laboratory Scientist escalates.

“This semester marks a special beginning for our School of Allied Health Professions as the inaugural class of PhD students in Rehabilitation Sciences are beginning their academic and scientific journey.  We are proud of the core faculty of this program for bringing this advanced degree from concept to reality, and we look forward to collaborative opportunities, innovation, and the enhanced research capacity this program will help to establish.  Graduates of this program will fill a critical need for doctorally prepared faculty in the Rehabilitation Sciences (Communication Disorders, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy) and they will contribute to a growing body of evidence supporting these professions.  This addition proves that the School of Allied Health Professions is not only surviving COVID-19, but we are growing and thriving in spite of the pandemic.  I am confident the expansion of educational opportunities at the SAHP will continue,” stated Dr. Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions. 

Survey data revealed that the greater Southern region which includes Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee currently do not have such a program.  While there are regional programs that exist for PhD’s in physical therapy, biomechanics, and exercise science, a PhD in rehabilitation sciences prepares researchers, educators, and leaders to contribute to the development of rehabilitation practice, research, and policy. 

About LSU Health Shreveport 

LSU Health Shreveport 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. Almost 900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu

Contact at LSU Health Shreveport:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Public Affairs & Communication

Office: 318-675-8769, Cell: 318-458-0166, Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

MEDIA ALERT:

SCHOOL OF ALLIED HEALTH PROFESSIONS VIRTUAL SUMMER GRADUATION

WHEN: Saturday, August 8 at 10 a.m.

Allied Health Students Scheduled for Virtual Graduation from
LSU Health Shreveport this Saturday 

This Saturday, August 8, 2020, 71 LSU Health Shreveport School of Allied Health Professions students will graduate from their respective programs with a bachelor’s or master’s degree.   

• Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science: 4 graduates
• Master of Occupational Therapy: 27 graduates
• Master of Physician Assistant Studies: 34 graduates
• Master of Public Health: 6 graduates

The School of Allied Health Professions at LSU Health Shreveport is comprised of seven academic programs, three post-professional residency programs for physical therapists who already hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, and three specialized clinics. “It is an honor to lead the dedicated faculty and students in the School of Allied Health Professions.  I applaud their resilience and innovation in order to meet their academic and professional goals during these unprecedented times.  These graduates will immediately impact our health system’s response, not only to the pandemic but across the spectrum of health needs of the citizens of Louisiana. I also want to thank Chancellor Ghali for his unwavering leadership to meet the needs wrought by the pandemic, and his ongoing support of these academic programs,” stated Sharon Dunn Ph.D, Dean of the School of Allied Health Professions.

Allied health professionals currently make up over 60% of all health care professionals and are involved with the delivery of health pertaining to the identification, evaluation and prevention of diseases and disorders, dietary and nutrition services, and rehabilitation among others.   “Our School of Allied Health Professions has an excellent reputation for training productive and high quality healthcare employees.   It is indeed fortunate these graduates are choosing to stay in Louisiana to help meet the ever increasing demands for healthcare services,” stated G. E. Ghali MD, DDS, FACS, FRCS (Ed), Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport 

According to U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, Allied health professionals (AHP’s) comprise roughly half of the 20 fastest professions in our economy.

• Occupational Therapists: predicted to experience 43% job growth in the next four years
• Physical Therapists – predicted job growth of 40% in the next 8 years
• Physician Assistants – predicted job growth of 31% in the next 8 years
• Speech Language Pathologists- predicted growth of 21% in next 6 years

Healthcare remains a key sector that drives the economy in our community. LSU Health Shreveport has an economic impact of nearly $6 million in the Shreveport region. Combined with the economic impact of its practicing alumni, LSUHS has a total economic impact of over $3 billion on North Louisiana. More than 18 percent of this graduating class are staying in Shreveport/Bossier to practice.  As of today, all graduates will be practicing in Louisiana.  Over 70% of the physicians and allied health professionals in our community received a portion or all of their training at LSU Health Shreveport.

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ABOUT LSU HEALTH SHREVEPORT

LSU Health Shreveport 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.  900 students are enrolled in the degree programs at any one time. Additionally, over 500 residents and fellows are trained each year. The primary mission of the LSU Health Sciences Center at Shreveport is to teach, heal, and discover, in order to advance the well-being of the region and beyond. At the heart of the LSU Health Shreveport is a strong faculty that includes a number of nationally and internationally acclaimed physicians and scientists. More than 600 strong, they lead our research efforts, educate our students and provide primary and specialty care to patients throughout the region. LSU Health Shreveport has strong community support, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion that promotes mutual respect for all. For more information, visit www.lsuhs.edu.

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CONTACT:

Lisa Babin, Executive Director of Communication and Public Relations
Office: 318-6758769   Cell: 318-458-0166   Email: lbabi6@lsuhsc.edu

Valorie Lurry, Director of Student Life and Alumni Affairs
Cell: 318-751-0677 | Email: vlurry@lsuhsc.edu