Ochsner, Adeptus Health team up to improve access to emergency medical care in Louisiana

Ochsner Health System ("Ochsner") and Adeptus Health Inc. (NYSE: ADPT) ("Adeptus Health") today announced that they have entered into a new partnership aimed at improving access to emergency medical care in Louisiana. The joint venture will identify multiple sites for freestanding emergency rooms, starting in Greater New Orleans, to make access to emergency medical care services within communities more convenient. The freestanding emergency rooms are expected to provide Louisiana residents with enhanced, integrated care and emergent patients with quicker access to all of the services provided by Ochsner. Once open, the new facilities are expected to create additional full-time jobs.

"We want to offer a full spectrum of care and see patients when and where they want to be seen," said Warner Thomas, President and CEO of Ochsner. "This partnership is truly an extension of that effort and is expected to ensure that many Louisiana residents will no longer have to drive more than 30 minutes when they need critical, emergency care services."

The American College of Emergency Physicians' (ACEP) 2014 National Report Card demonstrated the need for additional access to emergency medical care. The most recent ACEP survey highlights emergency visits are on the rise. The overwhelming response from physicians noted that this rise is combined in part with an increase in the acuity of patients' injuries and/or illnesses. This underscores the growing need for additional access points to high quality, 24/7 emergency care.

"We look forward to working with Ochsner to expand access to emergency medical care in Louisiana," said Thomas S. Hall, Chairman and CEO of Adeptus Health. "Strategic partnerships with leading healthcare systems, such as Ochsner, are a vital part of our plan as we help transform the delivery of emergency medical care in the U.S. Through this partnership, we're proud to expand into our fourth state and reach more patients who seek quality emergency care within their communities."