I have been hearing a lot about HCA's habit of big lay-offs when they take over a facility. And Ochsner has been gobbling up properties to shut-out competition. Enlarging Ochsner's monopoly and excluding fair competition would be to the detriment of residents of Jefferson and Orleans.
Tysun B. - 11 years ago
It's IMPERITIVE that we NOT ALLOW a single company to monopolize healthcare in our area. Competition amongst business is healthy for the businesses as well as the community it surrounds. Imagine living in an area where you had no choice to take your business elsewhere, since the competition owns the hospital down the road as well. All 3 hospitals jockeying for the position are more than qualified for the job.**********
Ochsner has more than flooded the market with its recent buyout of major surrounding hospitals (Ochsner Westbank, Ochsner Baptist, Ochsner Kenner, Ochsner Main, Ochsner Northshore, St. Anne General, Leonard J. Chabert, Ochsner Baton Rouge), 8 hospitals in total. Not to mention all of the satelite doctors' offices surrounding the area, 61 in total. We are seeing less and less, of the "mom & pop" personal practice due to Ochsner's progressive move towards monopolizing the area.************
For those reasons, this is why HCA and Childrens should be the only two companies even considered for the proposal.**********
Childrens operates Children's Hospital, Touro Infirmary and are currently building the huge Interim Hospital (the new Charity Hospital) in the heart of New Orleans. Which is GREAT for the city and surrounding area.**********
HCA operates Tulane Hospital, Lakeside Hospital and Lakeview Hospital on the Northshore. HCA has the financial resources to not only back both East Jeff & West Jeff Hospital, but to invest in development of its future as well.**********
For these reasons alone, it is easy to see why HCA is the best choice for running both East Jeff and West Jeff Hospital. Competition amongst hospitals increases awareness and drastically increases patient satisfaction.**********
Tysun B. - 11 years ago
It's IMPERITIVE that we NOT ALLOW a single company to monopolize healthcare in our area. Competition amongst business is healthy for the businesses as well as the community it surrounds. Imagine living in an area where you had no choice to take your business elsewhere, since the competition owns the hospital down the road as well. All 3 hospitals jockeying for the position are more than qualified for the job.
Ochsner has more than flooded the market with its recent buyout of major surrounding hospitals (Ochsner Westbank, Ochsner Baptist, Ochsner Kenner, Ochsner Main, Ochsner Northshore, St. Anne General, Leonard J. Chabert, Ochsner Baton Rouge), 8 hospitals in total. Not to mention all of the satelite doctors' offices surrounding the area, 61 in total. We are seeing less and less, of the "mom & pop" personal practice due to Ochsner's progressive move towards monopolizing the area.
For those reasons, this is why HCA and Childrens should be the only two companies even considered for the proposal.
Childrens operates Children's Hospital, Touro Infirmary and are currently building the huge Interim Hospital (the new Charity Hospital) in the heart of New Orleans. Which is GREAT for the city and surrounding area.
HCA operates Tulane Hospital, Lakeside Hospital and Lakeview Hospital on the Northshore. HCA has the financial resources to not only back both East Jeff & West Jeff Hospital, but to invest in development of its future as well.
For these reasons alone, it is easy to see why HCA is the best choice for running both East Jeff and West Jeff Hospital. Competition amongst hospitals increases awareness and drastically increases patient satisfaction.
LYNN MELANCON - 11 years ago
I have been working for Ochsner for over 2 years now, and it is not only a wonderful place to work, but it is an awesome feeling to be a part of a team that cares so much about the welfare of their patients. The patients are number 1, no matter what. I believe everyone deserves this kind of treatment. Ochsner should win this hands down, no questions asked.
Cindy - 11 years ago
I will state again, that HCA leasing these hospitals would not mean the outsourcing of jobs. Jobs that are here, will remain here. HCA is investing in Jefferson Parish, not merely looking "for another random hospital." I have been a patient of Ochsner, Tulane (HCA), Tulane-Lakeside (HCA), and Lakeview Hospital (HCA's on the Northshore). They are all good hospitals, no dispute there. I think Children's Hospital is a fantastic hospital, also. I just think realistically, the benefits that would come to Jefferson Parish through HCA could not be exceeded by Ochsner nor Children's. Please don't panic or fear,what to many people right now, is the unknown. Look into the success of HCA, and it goes beyond the dollar. They are in it for the right reasons.
Megan - 11 years ago
Ochsner wants this more than any of the other hopsitals. To them its just a number. Another random hospital that they will take over. Seems like for Ochsner its about creating a huge health care leader right here in Jefferson Parish... How could anyone who lives in Jefferson Parish not want that ? I live here and I say Ochsner not for any other reason than the simple fact that Ochsner guarentees everything will stay in parish.
Citizen - 11 years ago
Since several Ochsner have told me that they were told to go on line and vote for Ochsner, I think this poll is bias and the result bogus.
Spinner - 11 years ago
I know of two people with Medicaid who were treated at Ochsner. LCMC gets reimbursed three times higher on Medicaid than other local providers because of there political connections. That is why they are getting such a favorable lease with the new Charity.
Diane Murphy - 11 years ago
LCMC (parent corporation) of Children's, Touro, and ILH, would, by far, be the best partner for the Jefferson Parish hospitals. LCMC's interest lies in offering the best of care to the patients in this area, as well as having a strong mission to keep jobs local. LCMC brought Touro back when it was suffering, helped the State with its budget crisis by taking over the Interim LSU Hospital, and will keep all its promises to support EJ's and WJ's individual identity as YOUR Jefferson Parish hospitals while boosting them with capital dollars and the latest technology. LCMC is not a politics puppet--it stands alone as a strong and sincere advocate for healthcare in Louisiana; and EJ, WJ, its physicians, and staff would be fortunate to gain its association.
Marie - 11 years ago
As an Ochsner employee, thepay is not good and as a long term employee being maxed out without a pay riase in over 5 years and then to get a great evaluation and ending up getting a reduction in pay because your comp award gets cut, Ochsner does not need another facility. They need to take better care of the patients and employees. Ochsner taking over the region is not a good thing.
Ochsner employee - 11 years ago
What is sad is I will not be able to find a job but only at Ochsner if they take over. What if I want to work at a diff hospital? CANT cause your only option is Ochsner. They pay sucks!!!!! I answer phones for the appointment center and I turn down 50% of patients that call because we do not take medicaid!!!!! I get yelled at and B%*$*ed at all day but only thing I can do is apologize for what Ochsner does not provide. Ochsner needs to take medicaid no matter what because the slogan is a lie without it.
J.jay - 11 years ago
Ochsner stepped up to the plate after Katrinia and fix up the three tenet hospital,s that no one wanted.they have been good for Jefferson for 70 years.They are not responsible for putting private practice MD,s out of biz,in fact many private MD,s use the three former tenet hospitals that would of closed if not for Ochsner. Children/touro have a lot of political pull that the other bidders do not.I would not surprise me if they got at least one lease.
Big O employee - 11 years ago
I am currently an employee of Ochsner. I for one do not agree with Ochsner taking over either EJGH, West Jeff. or any other hospital in the region. They have become a monopoly in the area and as a result the employees are suffering. Wages are not competitive, and the pay does not come close to justifying the work load. To non-employees, it seems like "the place to work" and maybe 20+ years ago it was but now days, you are nothing more than an expendable part in the machine known as ochsner. It isn't bad for all of Ochsner, CEO's VP's and Physicians are making a killing with their bonuses in addition to their regular pay. I heard directly out of the mouth of an Ochsner VP, that the ochsner employees need to just get use to the fact that they will never be competitive with their pay nor will they pay above industry standards. This to me does not speak of a company that cares for their employees. I say outsource the other hospitals to TN as anything would be better than ochsner coming up with it. BTW as I stated previously I am an ochsner employee, I have had surgery at ochsner and I must say, I have never before been more afraid for my life. The experience from beginning to end was horrific. I had an allergy that I made the physician and nursing staff aware of prior to surgery did it stop them from giving me that medication? The answer is no, because I was on so much pain medication, I was unable to stop them from giving it to me. After having an allergic reaction and being treated for it, the evening nurse almost made the same mistake. This to me is not quality care or quality service. I know some people will respond and say, find another job. Trust me I am now looking because I can not work for a company that does not put a value on its staff. Without your employees, what would you be....
CC - 11 years ago
I'd like to know what jobs are being outsourced by HCA? I dont know anyone that works for the Tulane facilities that live out of state much less the New Orleans area! And while the allogations of outsourcing isnt true, how does this even affect patient care? As far as the link posted above about hospital rankings, not all hospitals were factored into the poll ie. HCA, Children's. SO obviously Ochsner will rank # 1 if its the only hospital being ranked. haha If everyone actually took the time to look at the healthgrades of care from each hospital, I think you would be really surprised by the outcome.
A.P. - 11 years ago
To the costco/sams comment: Do you even know what the term "local" means? It means that it started right here, grew to the size it is at right here, and will continue to be.. right here. If anybody is a corporate giant its HCA. 167 hospitals to Ochsners 8. And speaking to the people who seem concerned about Ochsner creating a monopoly, and not having choices... Ochsner has not been competing with local compitition for a while now. Ochsner sets its competition against its self. Meaning that ever since they left the local competition in the dust by being the best nationaly recognized health system in the area, they continuously try to better them selves and their rankings. How do you do that? By providing the best leadership, medical staff and support staff of any other facility around. Dont let one bad, grumpy doctor taint the whole organization. Ochsner leaders expect the best.
JSB - 11 years ago
HCA is a good corporation. The company took care of it's employees like no-one else following Katrina. As far as patient care, we are all healthcare providers and we all strive, everyday, regardless of where we work, to provide the best patient care possible. The community will beneft in tax dollars from HCA as well as the confidence that if another Katrina were to hit, they would take care of their employees better than any other facility. The proof is in the pudding. When it came down to it, in the times when it really mattered, HCA stepped up to the plate and really supported it's employees. As far as Tulane and Lakeside being run into the ground, couldn't be farther from the truth, they are excellent facilities.
Ann - 11 years ago
As a healthcare provider who spent 2 separate hospitalizions at Ochsner, I do not believe they provided "top-notch" care. I spent several very scary days in the facility at main campus, where I actually was mismanaged & concerned for my safety. I feel sorry for the patients who don't know any better than to question healthcare decisions made by the providers there. Even worse, the patient complaint I filed with concrete evidene and specific examples of dangerous care was disregared and "justified" by the physician who responded. I do not believe that safety is their top priority. I completey agree with the comment about "cost-Co/Sams" type care. HCA or Children's would be a better choice.
Megan - 11 years ago
Why do people who actually pay for their healthcare want a monopoly in the city?? The best medical care is delivered by hospitals who must strive to be the best and compete with other excellent facilities. Ochsner would be a very poor choice for the citizens of Jefferson Parish. If you want a Cost-Co or Sam's approach to healthcare, then I guess Ochsner would be your choice. HCA is a successful, well known national company who has a reputation for taking care of their employees in difficult times. I feel HCA is the best choice for the parish.
Jena Theriot - 11 years ago
HCA all the way!!!! I have been employee with HCA Tulane since January 2005. I will be forever grateful for the assistance that I received from HCA after hurricane Katrina. Although I was not back at work till March of 2006 there was never an interruption in my pay. HCA paid me every two weeks for 40 hours of work even though I was not working. HCA has an employee assistance fund that is there for any employee to request money from in times of hardship. Although we may not have big extravagant company Christmas parties ect they are there to show their commitment to their employees and the community in other more important ways. I know for a fact that the Ochsner and Children’s employees were not treated that well after hurricane Katrina. The way they treated the employees after Katrina was not just a onetime deal. Just a couple of weeks after Katrina, Rita hit and they were also there to help their employees and for every hurricane since.
I Jefferson Parish does not pick HCA it is like throwing MILLIONS of dollars down the drain. HCA is the only choice that will be giving back to the community financially too. HCA is for profit which means they have to pay taxes like any other business in the parish. This means MILLIONS in taxes each year for Jefferson Parish. Children’s and Ochsner not for profit = no taxes for the community.
How can one say that HCA is not part of the community??? HCA owns a hospital in Jefferson, Orleans and St. Tammy Parish. HCA is not only a part those communities but what makes HCA stand out from Ochsner and Children’s is that they give Millions each year in taxes.
SMK - 11 years ago
I would like to second the other HCA employee views. Post Katrina even though Tulane Medical Center was closed, HCA paid EVERY employee even prn through the end of 2005. Those of us who were working during the storm were kept safe and cared for by the company. They arranged helicopters to evacuate all patients and then the employees. NONE of our patients died. Once all patients were evacuated, including some from Charity Hospital, the employees were evacuated. We were taken to other HCA facilities in Louisiana, brought to showers, given clean clothing and taken to shelters with food, AC and beds. HCA then arranged to get employees anywhere in the U.S. that their families were. They helped employees who lost everything find jobs in other city's if they decided against returning to New Orleans. WIthout the backing of the corporate office- none of this would have been possible. Whether a company is for-profit or not-for-profit, they need to make a profit to stay in business. Having a corporate backing allows a hospital to spend capital for new technology or facility improvements that wouldn't occur if a "not-for-profit" facility was having a bad finacial year. HCA is the best choice for the future of East Jefferson and WestJefferson Hopitals.
Aly - 11 years ago
I have worked for many hospitals and have been too even more. I am a very sickly person and stay in care. In all of my life I have never been cared for the way I am when I come to Ochsner. The doctors and nurses truly care. They hold your hand when you need it, Give you a tissue when your crying, and stand by your side through any trauma and treatment. I am working for a University hospital and Ochsner and I can say from personal experience NO ONE will put their heart and soul into these locations like Ochsner will. I am 100% positive Ochsner taking this lease will mean so much more for this Parish and this area than any of the other options. If anyone is even some what on the fence. Look at the numbers. Call and request them. See for yourself. Ochsner is the safest place for health care. Numbers and ratings do not lie. In my optinion for a hospital with the least amuont of money they sure have the highest ratings. Its not about what you have. It is what you do with what you have. I want to see my parish grow and flourish. Ochsner guarentees that.
Mrs Wilson - 11 years ago
My entire family are patients with Ochsner. We have only received the best care from a friendly staff. I think Ochsner would be a good choice to spread the wonderful care they provide.
NS - 11 years ago
We absolutely do need diversity and choices. As an HCA employee, they were there for me and my co-workers after Katrina. They helped me pick up the pieces and put my life back together after the storm. Aside from continuing to pay salaries during the evacuation period, HCA has a "Hope Fund" which is there to assist HCA employees get back on their feet after a disaster (personal or city disaster). I can't say enough about how much this has helped myself and my co-workers. HCA has given me a sense of relief, peace, calm, and hope in our city's darkest hours.
E.G.-RN - 11 years ago
As a Registered Nurse with a career in ICU, I have to go with Louisiana Children's. Ochsner will not provide any choices for care. As a former Tulane/HCA nurse, they have the worst treatment of their nurses and worst patient safety. HCA hospitals on the West coast have high rates of nurses who go on strike over patient safety issues. HCA is also horrible to their nurses in Texas. Ochsner has the lowest pay in the metro area for nurses. Tulane HCA has the highest turnover rate in the area. Despite the high pay, no one wants to work there and the hospital is dirty. LSU nurses are some of the best in the city and many of thoseare Charity trained nurses without 4 year degrees. Ochsner discriminates against them in hiring. They only want the BSN nurses (Bull Shit Nurses). HCA is only about how much money they make for their companies. I believe that if HCA takes over the JP hospitals, they will be ruined and after awhile will have a mass exodus of nurses-just like Tulane.
hermann - 11 years ago
Is it all about the workers or is it about the patients that need our care? Why do we insist to be so ego-centric? Choice should be determined by the consumer, i.e. the patient who sees where they get the best care based on what are best outcomes (least rate of complications and mortality) from care
hermann - 11 years ago
Why is the ability to provide nationally recognized quality of care not considered in this decision? No one talks about the many lives saved by one organization over another.
Not HCA, not Children's have any sort of quality ratings to speak of, when compared to Ochsner. I witnessed this with my own eyes - I say if the folks of Jefferson Parish care about avoiding unnecessary deaths and complications, Ochsner is the best choice, not to mention that Ochsner supports over 700 local Jefferson Parish businesses and does not outsource to out of town empires
elizabeth - 11 years ago
Children's provides the best option. Touro, Childrens and University all serve different populations...as does EJ and WJ. Together they can cover the entire metro area giving a choice to those who do not want to get their healthcare from the evil empire. I have been pleased with my experience at Touro and Childrens. They are smart about the business of healthcare and care about their employees and patients.
New Orleans born and raised - 11 years ago
I was born and raised in N.O. Tulane is a N.O. institution and from what I understand HCA owns about 80% of Tulane. Tulane is one of the biggest employers in N.O. if not the biggest, providing good paying jobs with excellent benefits. HCA's headquarters may be in Nashville but they have invested a lot of money into our local economy to make sure their hospitals thrive. This is a company with the assets to take care of EJ and WJ.
amp - 11 years ago
Ochsner is the ONLY choice for Jefferson Parish. The largest employer and committed to patient care. They have great outcomes. Leave politics out of this - only systems will survive healthcare reform
nolagirl26 - 11 years ago
In response to outsourcing:
Ochsner does not outsource any of their jobs. Their operations centers are located right here in Jefferson Parish.
For those who say Ochsner is putting private practices out of business, making the Healthcare industry a monopolized market which is not fair to the patients either and it is taking away their choice of medical care:
ObamaCare is making it impossible for a stand alone hospital to survive. If you are not part of a large health system, you will fail. We can't afford to have the state's largest private employer, located right here in Jefferson Parish, fail.
Adam - 11 years ago
The point I was trying to make was that HCA benefits Tennessee. Children's benefits orleans. Ochsner is the only choice on the table that has 100% Commited to Jefferson parish. The only outsourcing we do is to the benson tower dowtown. Still Louisiana. And on top of that ochsner puts millions into local charities and events each year. Can HCA say that? They might say they care about community outreach and growth, but how much does a "for profit" group based out of Nashville really care about our community? We are the ones who live here. Not them.
Adam,
I didn't say that they didn't pay them, I said that my wife thought that they paid comparatively low when searching for a nursing job, to the point where she didn't want to work there. Also, HCA doesn't contract out their jobs, they have their operations located regionally and their workers are located where the work is ,which is to say, Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Tammany Parish, since they have hospitals in all three places. You seriously think that all of the employees work out of Nashville? I wonder if Ochsner outsources any labor?
Boston Transplant - 11 years ago
HCA cares about the patients and the employees. That's who came first during Katrina and they are still continuing to rebuild and help this region becoming stronger by providing quality and safe healthcare. Isn't that what's important? HCA supports pediatric healthcare...the have the best pediatric staff of: doctors, nurses, therapists, child life specialists, and support staff in this region. My children are treated by the best staff and the best are working for HCA in this region, not Ochsner and certainly not Children's! If you care about kids healthcare do your homework...look at the leading facilities in the country and what they are providing...and see how HCA is a strong supporter in those areas. EJ and WJ are strong competitors in this market and HCA can only make them stronger!
Christine - 11 years ago
As healthcare providers and a community it is our responsibility to take care of all people who need healthcare. Ochsner does not provide services to "all" people. The minute they hear the word Medicaid or Medicare, they transfer the care to other hospitals.
Cindy - 11 years ago
Consider HCA local. I work for HCA on the northshore. I have every confidence in their ability to not only manage these hospitals, but to have them excel. There should be no fear in patient quality, because we strive to exceed expectations. My parents have both been patients at East Jefferson over the years and still live two blocks from the hospital. I do not hesitate showing my support and enthusiasm for them, knowing my parents will no doubt need further care from them in the future.
Adam - 11 years ago
I dont know where all these comments about Ochsner not paying their employees are coming from. I have worked for Ochsner for over 5 years and am a loyal employee... No I dont make the most in the industry, But for what I do, I think its a pretty fair pay.
And I would much rather see jobs stay in Jeff parish rather than outsource them out. If HCA gets the hospitals then Tennessee gets the cheese. If Childrens gets them then you will see Orleans Parish get in on it. The ONLY sure way for these jobs to remain in Jefferson is if Ochsner gets the contract.
And besides, this is way more of an issue than an upfront deal to see who offers the most money, or to see who is going to pay their employees a few cents more than the other... we need to look at patient care. Ochsner is the only nationally ranked system in 8 major areas, has won many, many national awards including a spot on Beckers top 100 hospitals in the country in 2013.
From U.S. news and World Report:
Ochsner: 8 rankings including #16 in gastro and GI surgery, and #24 in cardio and heart surgery. plus more
HCA: 0 rankings
Childrens: 0 rankings
The choice is clear people.
LYNN - 11 years ago
I TRUST THE OCHSNER FACILITY THEY ARE STRONG LEADERS.
CJ - 11 years ago
Ochsner was actually interested in purchasing Tulane awhile back. The deal fell through but for awhile it looked like a pretty certain thing. When all of the doctors thought that it was a sure thing, a bunch of them bailed because they did not want to work for Ochsner. Also, my wife is a nurse. When looking for a job, it was Ochsner that paid the least for the nurses. Like someone else said, greeters at CostCo and fast food workers make the same or more than the folks at Ochsner who have patient's lives in their hands.
Tiffany - 11 years ago
I am a nurse and have worked at or been affiliated with all 3 hospitals at different times in my 20 plus year career. I believe that if Ochsner or Childrens take control of "the Jeffs", it will ultimately destroy any chance of choice for consumers and healthcare workers in healthcare in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Although there is the argument that they are "local" and HCA is not, think of it this way: HCA has invested in the NOLA area and stuck it out post Katrina. They are committed to continuing their relationship with the people of Louisiana with major plans in the works at bettering our community. With HCA acquiring the hospitals, I believe it evens the playing fields for all, especially for healthcare workers. Another major factor to consider is salary for nurses, doctors, and all ancillary positions. The more that is owned, the less say the employees will have in the end. Keep it interesting for all and vote HCA! HCA= CHOICE!
SusieQ82 - 11 years ago
HCA will be the best choice by far!! They are extremely determined to invest and care for patient's in this area as well as invest in the employees. They can be a win/win/win ..... a win for patients, a win for employees, and a win for Jefferson Parish!!
Marie - 11 years ago
Ochsner has a vested interest in the community. If the parish wants Quality Health Care for their patients then there the choice is CLEAR.
sunkiss - 11 years ago
People yes ochsner gives great service but I have been born and raised in new orleans i dont want my hospital choices to be like my entergy choices!!!!
Jessie - 11 years ago
I am so impressed with all the new departments and developments with ochsner. I think if they are able to grow within their own environment, they can grow and enhance East and West Jefferson also. I vote Ochsner.
HCA Fan - 11 years ago
I was discharged from an HCA hospital about 6 weeks ago - treated phenominally by the nurses, physicians, lab techs, radiology techs, etc. I couldn't ahve asked for better, more caring practioners. All this and HCA pays taxes as well. Good care, supports the community financially - there are advantages to having the resources and expertise a "big" company brings to health care.
Kelly - 11 years ago
Both my parents are patients a East Jefferson Hospital. My parents and I were excited when we learned that East Jefferson may be managed by Ochsner. They have been with their doctors for so many years, but not have been happy with some of the medicare incident a few years ago. They would be relieved to know that ochsner is managing their healthcare.
Marie - 11 years ago
I have only experienced the best medical care at Ochsner. I recommend that they become partners with East Jefferson and West Jefferson Hospitals. It would be great to see a great facility run those 2 hospitals.
Lynn - 11 years ago
I trust the ochsner facility. They are strong leaders and healthcare providers in the medical industry. I have doctors at East Jefferson and would like to see them partners with ochsner.
Judy - 11 years ago
At least Ochsner has a vested interest in the health of the community. Do your research people.
Kathy - 11 years ago
If we want the best quality healthcare at our hospitals for our community, Ocshner should be the choice. HCA will move whatever jobs they can out of the state to save money. Save your jobs!
Bruce - 11 years ago
You may not want Ochsner to have a monopoly in the New Orleans area, but lets be honest, they're better suited to run East and West Jeff than Children's. As far as HCA goes, would you rather a local company in Ochsner have a monopoly or let a national "Chain", which is what HCA is, take over the two and possibly start running Ochsner out of business, taking tax dollars and profits out of state? I hope you like the service you get at McDonald's because that's what it sounds like we'll get from HCA... Bet you didn't know they're already running Tulane into the ground and soon they'll be doing the same to Lakeside. Yes, HCA already runs those two.
Sunkiss - 11 years ago
Amen to that Dragan Plus I think having the ability to get a second option is lessoned if ochsner buys everything up... We need diversity in our city !!!
Jessica - 11 years ago
I agree with the comment above. Ochsner is putting private practices out of business, making the Healthcare industry a monopolized market which is not fair to the patients either. It is taking away their choice of medical care. Not to mention the employees that run the hospitals are some of the lowest paid in the city. The new Costco in New Orleans is paying more for sitting at the front doors than people who have patients lives in their hands. It just doesn't seem ethical.
Dragan - 11 years ago
I do not think Ochsner needs control over another Hospital. When Medical Personnel want to work for some one else, there will be no options.
I have been hearing a lot about HCA's habit of big lay-offs when they take over a facility. And Ochsner has been gobbling up properties to shut-out competition. Enlarging Ochsner's monopoly and excluding fair competition would be to the detriment of residents of Jefferson and Orleans.
It's IMPERITIVE that we NOT ALLOW a single company to monopolize healthcare in our area. Competition amongst business is healthy for the businesses as well as the community it surrounds. Imagine living in an area where you had no choice to take your business elsewhere, since the competition owns the hospital down the road as well. All 3 hospitals jockeying for the position are more than qualified for the job.**********
Ochsner has more than flooded the market with its recent buyout of major surrounding hospitals (Ochsner Westbank, Ochsner Baptist, Ochsner Kenner, Ochsner Main, Ochsner Northshore, St. Anne General, Leonard J. Chabert, Ochsner Baton Rouge), 8 hospitals in total. Not to mention all of the satelite doctors' offices surrounding the area, 61 in total. We are seeing less and less, of the "mom & pop" personal practice due to Ochsner's progressive move towards monopolizing the area.************
For those reasons, this is why HCA and Childrens should be the only two companies even considered for the proposal.**********
Childrens operates Children's Hospital, Touro Infirmary and are currently building the huge Interim Hospital (the new Charity Hospital) in the heart of New Orleans. Which is GREAT for the city and surrounding area.**********
HCA operates Tulane Hospital, Lakeside Hospital and Lakeview Hospital on the Northshore. HCA has the financial resources to not only back both East Jeff & West Jeff Hospital, but to invest in development of its future as well.**********
For these reasons alone, it is easy to see why HCA is the best choice for running both East Jeff and West Jeff Hospital. Competition amongst hospitals increases awareness and drastically increases patient satisfaction.**********
It's IMPERITIVE that we NOT ALLOW a single company to monopolize healthcare in our area. Competition amongst business is healthy for the businesses as well as the community it surrounds. Imagine living in an area where you had no choice to take your business elsewhere, since the competition owns the hospital down the road as well. All 3 hospitals jockeying for the position are more than qualified for the job.
Ochsners Locations: Hospitals/Health Centers http://www.ochsner.org/locations/
Westbank: 1/8
Eastbank: 3/23
Northshore: 1/14
Bayou Region: 2/7
Baton Rouge: 1/9
Ochsner has more than flooded the market with its recent buyout of major surrounding hospitals (Ochsner Westbank, Ochsner Baptist, Ochsner Kenner, Ochsner Main, Ochsner Northshore, St. Anne General, Leonard J. Chabert, Ochsner Baton Rouge), 8 hospitals in total. Not to mention all of the satelite doctors' offices surrounding the area, 61 in total. We are seeing less and less, of the "mom & pop" personal practice due to Ochsner's progressive move towards monopolizing the area.
For those reasons, this is why HCA and Childrens should be the only two companies even considered for the proposal.
Childrens operates Children's Hospital, Touro Infirmary and are currently building the huge Interim Hospital (the new Charity Hospital) in the heart of New Orleans. Which is GREAT for the city and surrounding area.
HCA operates Tulane Hospital, Lakeside Hospital and Lakeview Hospital on the Northshore. HCA has the financial resources to not only back both East Jeff & West Jeff Hospital, but to invest in development of its future as well.
For these reasons alone, it is easy to see why HCA is the best choice for running both East Jeff and West Jeff Hospital. Competition amongst hospitals increases awareness and drastically increases patient satisfaction.
I have been working for Ochsner for over 2 years now, and it is not only a wonderful place to work, but it is an awesome feeling to be a part of a team that cares so much about the welfare of their patients. The patients are number 1, no matter what. I believe everyone deserves this kind of treatment. Ochsner should win this hands down, no questions asked.
I will state again, that HCA leasing these hospitals would not mean the outsourcing of jobs. Jobs that are here, will remain here. HCA is investing in Jefferson Parish, not merely looking "for another random hospital." I have been a patient of Ochsner, Tulane (HCA), Tulane-Lakeside (HCA), and Lakeview Hospital (HCA's on the Northshore). They are all good hospitals, no dispute there. I think Children's Hospital is a fantastic hospital, also. I just think realistically, the benefits that would come to Jefferson Parish through HCA could not be exceeded by Ochsner nor Children's. Please don't panic or fear,what to many people right now, is the unknown. Look into the success of HCA, and it goes beyond the dollar. They are in it for the right reasons.
Ochsner wants this more than any of the other hopsitals. To them its just a number. Another random hospital that they will take over. Seems like for Ochsner its about creating a huge health care leader right here in Jefferson Parish... How could anyone who lives in Jefferson Parish not want that ? I live here and I say Ochsner not for any other reason than the simple fact that Ochsner guarentees everything will stay in parish.
Since several Ochsner have told me that they were told to go on line and vote for Ochsner, I think this poll is bias and the result bogus.
I know of two people with Medicaid who were treated at Ochsner. LCMC gets reimbursed three times higher on Medicaid than other local providers because of there political connections. That is why they are getting such a favorable lease with the new Charity.
LCMC (parent corporation) of Children's, Touro, and ILH, would, by far, be the best partner for the Jefferson Parish hospitals. LCMC's interest lies in offering the best of care to the patients in this area, as well as having a strong mission to keep jobs local. LCMC brought Touro back when it was suffering, helped the State with its budget crisis by taking over the Interim LSU Hospital, and will keep all its promises to support EJ's and WJ's individual identity as YOUR Jefferson Parish hospitals while boosting them with capital dollars and the latest technology. LCMC is not a politics puppet--it stands alone as a strong and sincere advocate for healthcare in Louisiana; and EJ, WJ, its physicians, and staff would be fortunate to gain its association.
As an Ochsner employee, thepay is not good and as a long term employee being maxed out without a pay riase in over 5 years and then to get a great evaluation and ending up getting a reduction in pay because your comp award gets cut, Ochsner does not need another facility. They need to take better care of the patients and employees. Ochsner taking over the region is not a good thing.
What is sad is I will not be able to find a job but only at Ochsner if they take over. What if I want to work at a diff hospital? CANT cause your only option is Ochsner. They pay sucks!!!!! I answer phones for the appointment center and I turn down 50% of patients that call because we do not take medicaid!!!!! I get yelled at and B%*$*ed at all day but only thing I can do is apologize for what Ochsner does not provide. Ochsner needs to take medicaid no matter what because the slogan is a lie without it.
Ochsner stepped up to the plate after Katrinia and fix up the three tenet hospital,s that no one wanted.they have been good for Jefferson for 70 years.They are not responsible for putting private practice MD,s out of biz,in fact many private MD,s use the three former tenet hospitals that would of closed if not for Ochsner. Children/touro have a lot of political pull that the other bidders do not.I would not surprise me if they got at least one lease.
I am currently an employee of Ochsner. I for one do not agree with Ochsner taking over either EJGH, West Jeff. or any other hospital in the region. They have become a monopoly in the area and as a result the employees are suffering. Wages are not competitive, and the pay does not come close to justifying the work load. To non-employees, it seems like "the place to work" and maybe 20+ years ago it was but now days, you are nothing more than an expendable part in the machine known as ochsner. It isn't bad for all of Ochsner, CEO's VP's and Physicians are making a killing with their bonuses in addition to their regular pay. I heard directly out of the mouth of an Ochsner VP, that the ochsner employees need to just get use to the fact that they will never be competitive with their pay nor will they pay above industry standards. This to me does not speak of a company that cares for their employees. I say outsource the other hospitals to TN as anything would be better than ochsner coming up with it. BTW as I stated previously I am an ochsner employee, I have had surgery at ochsner and I must say, I have never before been more afraid for my life. The experience from beginning to end was horrific. I had an allergy that I made the physician and nursing staff aware of prior to surgery did it stop them from giving me that medication? The answer is no, because I was on so much pain medication, I was unable to stop them from giving it to me. After having an allergic reaction and being treated for it, the evening nurse almost made the same mistake. This to me is not quality care or quality service. I know some people will respond and say, find another job. Trust me I am now looking because I can not work for a company that does not put a value on its staff. Without your employees, what would you be....
I'd like to know what jobs are being outsourced by HCA? I dont know anyone that works for the Tulane facilities that live out of state much less the New Orleans area! And while the allogations of outsourcing isnt true, how does this even affect patient care? As far as the link posted above about hospital rankings, not all hospitals were factored into the poll ie. HCA, Children's. SO obviously Ochsner will rank # 1 if its the only hospital being ranked. haha If everyone actually took the time to look at the healthgrades of care from each hospital, I think you would be really surprised by the outcome.
To the costco/sams comment: Do you even know what the term "local" means? It means that it started right here, grew to the size it is at right here, and will continue to be.. right here. If anybody is a corporate giant its HCA. 167 hospitals to Ochsners 8. And speaking to the people who seem concerned about Ochsner creating a monopoly, and not having choices... Ochsner has not been competing with local compitition for a while now. Ochsner sets its competition against its self. Meaning that ever since they left the local competition in the dust by being the best nationaly recognized health system in the area, they continuously try to better them selves and their rankings. How do you do that? By providing the best leadership, medical staff and support staff of any other facility around. Dont let one bad, grumpy doctor taint the whole organization. Ochsner leaders expect the best.
HCA is a good corporation. The company took care of it's employees like no-one else following Katrina. As far as patient care, we are all healthcare providers and we all strive, everyday, regardless of where we work, to provide the best patient care possible. The community will beneft in tax dollars from HCA as well as the confidence that if another Katrina were to hit, they would take care of their employees better than any other facility. The proof is in the pudding. When it came down to it, in the times when it really mattered, HCA stepped up to the plate and really supported it's employees. As far as Tulane and Lakeside being run into the ground, couldn't be farther from the truth, they are excellent facilities.
As a healthcare provider who spent 2 separate hospitalizions at Ochsner, I do not believe they provided "top-notch" care. I spent several very scary days in the facility at main campus, where I actually was mismanaged & concerned for my safety. I feel sorry for the patients who don't know any better than to question healthcare decisions made by the providers there. Even worse, the patient complaint I filed with concrete evidene and specific examples of dangerous care was disregared and "justified" by the physician who responded. I do not believe that safety is their top priority. I completey agree with the comment about "cost-Co/Sams" type care. HCA or Children's would be a better choice.
Why do people who actually pay for their healthcare want a monopoly in the city?? The best medical care is delivered by hospitals who must strive to be the best and compete with other excellent facilities. Ochsner would be a very poor choice for the citizens of Jefferson Parish. If you want a Cost-Co or Sam's approach to healthcare, then I guess Ochsner would be your choice. HCA is a successful, well known national company who has a reputation for taking care of their employees in difficult times. I feel HCA is the best choice for the parish.
HCA all the way!!!! I have been employee with HCA Tulane since January 2005. I will be forever grateful for the assistance that I received from HCA after hurricane Katrina. Although I was not back at work till March of 2006 there was never an interruption in my pay. HCA paid me every two weeks for 40 hours of work even though I was not working. HCA has an employee assistance fund that is there for any employee to request money from in times of hardship. Although we may not have big extravagant company Christmas parties ect they are there to show their commitment to their employees and the community in other more important ways. I know for a fact that the Ochsner and Children’s employees were not treated that well after hurricane Katrina. The way they treated the employees after Katrina was not just a onetime deal. Just a couple of weeks after Katrina, Rita hit and they were also there to help their employees and for every hurricane since.
I Jefferson Parish does not pick HCA it is like throwing MILLIONS of dollars down the drain. HCA is the only choice that will be giving back to the community financially too. HCA is for profit which means they have to pay taxes like any other business in the parish. This means MILLIONS in taxes each year for Jefferson Parish. Children’s and Ochsner not for profit = no taxes for the community.
How can one say that HCA is not part of the community??? HCA owns a hospital in Jefferson, Orleans and St. Tammy Parish. HCA is not only a part those communities but what makes HCA stand out from Ochsner and Children’s is that they give Millions each year in taxes.
I would like to second the other HCA employee views. Post Katrina even though Tulane Medical Center was closed, HCA paid EVERY employee even prn through the end of 2005. Those of us who were working during the storm were kept safe and cared for by the company. They arranged helicopters to evacuate all patients and then the employees. NONE of our patients died. Once all patients were evacuated, including some from Charity Hospital, the employees were evacuated. We were taken to other HCA facilities in Louisiana, brought to showers, given clean clothing and taken to shelters with food, AC and beds. HCA then arranged to get employees anywhere in the U.S. that their families were. They helped employees who lost everything find jobs in other city's if they decided against returning to New Orleans. WIthout the backing of the corporate office- none of this would have been possible. Whether a company is for-profit or not-for-profit, they need to make a profit to stay in business. Having a corporate backing allows a hospital to spend capital for new technology or facility improvements that wouldn't occur if a "not-for-profit" facility was having a bad finacial year. HCA is the best choice for the future of East Jefferson and WestJefferson Hopitals.
I have worked for many hospitals and have been too even more. I am a very sickly person and stay in care. In all of my life I have never been cared for the way I am when I come to Ochsner. The doctors and nurses truly care. They hold your hand when you need it, Give you a tissue when your crying, and stand by your side through any trauma and treatment. I am working for a University hospital and Ochsner and I can say from personal experience NO ONE will put their heart and soul into these locations like Ochsner will. I am 100% positive Ochsner taking this lease will mean so much more for this Parish and this area than any of the other options. If anyone is even some what on the fence. Look at the numbers. Call and request them. See for yourself. Ochsner is the safest place for health care. Numbers and ratings do not lie. In my optinion for a hospital with the least amuont of money they sure have the highest ratings. Its not about what you have. It is what you do with what you have. I want to see my parish grow and flourish. Ochsner guarentees that.
My entire family are patients with Ochsner. We have only received the best care from a friendly staff. I think Ochsner would be a good choice to spread the wonderful care they provide.
We absolutely do need diversity and choices. As an HCA employee, they were there for me and my co-workers after Katrina. They helped me pick up the pieces and put my life back together after the storm. Aside from continuing to pay salaries during the evacuation period, HCA has a "Hope Fund" which is there to assist HCA employees get back on their feet after a disaster (personal or city disaster). I can't say enough about how much this has helped myself and my co-workers. HCA has given me a sense of relief, peace, calm, and hope in our city's darkest hours.
As a Registered Nurse with a career in ICU, I have to go with Louisiana Children's. Ochsner will not provide any choices for care. As a former Tulane/HCA nurse, they have the worst treatment of their nurses and worst patient safety. HCA hospitals on the West coast have high rates of nurses who go on strike over patient safety issues. HCA is also horrible to their nurses in Texas. Ochsner has the lowest pay in the metro area for nurses. Tulane HCA has the highest turnover rate in the area. Despite the high pay, no one wants to work there and the hospital is dirty. LSU nurses are some of the best in the city and many of thoseare Charity trained nurses without 4 year degrees. Ochsner discriminates against them in hiring. They only want the BSN nurses (Bull Shit Nurses). HCA is only about how much money they make for their companies. I believe that if HCA takes over the JP hospitals, they will be ruined and after awhile will have a mass exodus of nurses-just like Tulane.
Is it all about the workers or is it about the patients that need our care? Why do we insist to be so ego-centric? Choice should be determined by the consumer, i.e. the patient who sees where they get the best care based on what are best outcomes (least rate of complications and mortality) from care
Why is the ability to provide nationally recognized quality of care not considered in this decision? No one talks about the many lives saved by one organization over another.
Not HCA, not Children's have any sort of quality ratings to speak of, when compared to Ochsner. I witnessed this with my own eyes - I say if the folks of Jefferson Parish care about avoiding unnecessary deaths and complications, Ochsner is the best choice, not to mention that Ochsner supports over 700 local Jefferson Parish businesses and does not outsource to out of town empires
Children's provides the best option. Touro, Childrens and University all serve different populations...as does EJ and WJ. Together they can cover the entire metro area giving a choice to those who do not want to get their healthcare from the evil empire. I have been pleased with my experience at Touro and Childrens. They are smart about the business of healthcare and care about their employees and patients.
I was born and raised in N.O. Tulane is a N.O. institution and from what I understand HCA owns about 80% of Tulane. Tulane is one of the biggest employers in N.O. if not the biggest, providing good paying jobs with excellent benefits. HCA's headquarters may be in Nashville but they have invested a lot of money into our local economy to make sure their hospitals thrive. This is a company with the assets to take care of EJ and WJ.
Ochsner is the ONLY choice for Jefferson Parish. The largest employer and committed to patient care. They have great outcomes. Leave politics out of this - only systems will survive healthcare reform
In response to outsourcing:
Ochsner does not outsource any of their jobs. Their operations centers are located right here in Jefferson Parish.
For those who say Ochsner is putting private practices out of business, making the Healthcare industry a monopolized market which is not fair to the patients either and it is taking away their choice of medical care:
ObamaCare is making it impossible for a stand alone hospital to survive. If you are not part of a large health system, you will fail. We can't afford to have the state's largest private employer, located right here in Jefferson Parish, fail.
The point I was trying to make was that HCA benefits Tennessee. Children's benefits orleans. Ochsner is the only choice on the table that has 100% Commited to Jefferson parish. The only outsourcing we do is to the benson tower dowtown. Still Louisiana. And on top of that ochsner puts millions into local charities and events each year. Can HCA say that? They might say they care about community outreach and growth, but how much does a "for profit" group based out of Nashville really care about our community? We are the ones who live here. Not them.
http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals/area/new-orleans-la
Adam,
I didn't say that they didn't pay them, I said that my wife thought that they paid comparatively low when searching for a nursing job, to the point where she didn't want to work there. Also, HCA doesn't contract out their jobs, they have their operations located regionally and their workers are located where the work is ,which is to say, Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Tammany Parish, since they have hospitals in all three places. You seriously think that all of the employees work out of Nashville? I wonder if Ochsner outsources any labor?
HCA cares about the patients and the employees. That's who came first during Katrina and they are still continuing to rebuild and help this region becoming stronger by providing quality and safe healthcare. Isn't that what's important? HCA supports pediatric healthcare...the have the best pediatric staff of: doctors, nurses, therapists, child life specialists, and support staff in this region. My children are treated by the best staff and the best are working for HCA in this region, not Ochsner and certainly not Children's! If you care about kids healthcare do your homework...look at the leading facilities in the country and what they are providing...and see how HCA is a strong supporter in those areas. EJ and WJ are strong competitors in this market and HCA can only make them stronger!
As healthcare providers and a community it is our responsibility to take care of all people who need healthcare. Ochsner does not provide services to "all" people. The minute they hear the word Medicaid or Medicare, they transfer the care to other hospitals.
Consider HCA local. I work for HCA on the northshore. I have every confidence in their ability to not only manage these hospitals, but to have them excel. There should be no fear in patient quality, because we strive to exceed expectations. My parents have both been patients at East Jefferson over the years and still live two blocks from the hospital. I do not hesitate showing my support and enthusiasm for them, knowing my parents will no doubt need further care from them in the future.
I dont know where all these comments about Ochsner not paying their employees are coming from. I have worked for Ochsner for over 5 years and am a loyal employee... No I dont make the most in the industry, But for what I do, I think its a pretty fair pay.
And I would much rather see jobs stay in Jeff parish rather than outsource them out. If HCA gets the hospitals then Tennessee gets the cheese. If Childrens gets them then you will see Orleans Parish get in on it. The ONLY sure way for these jobs to remain in Jefferson is if Ochsner gets the contract.
And besides, this is way more of an issue than an upfront deal to see who offers the most money, or to see who is going to pay their employees a few cents more than the other... we need to look at patient care. Ochsner is the only nationally ranked system in 8 major areas, has won many, many national awards including a spot on Beckers top 100 hospitals in the country in 2013.
From U.S. news and World Report:
Ochsner: 8 rankings including #16 in gastro and GI surgery, and #24 in cardio and heart surgery. plus more
HCA: 0 rankings
Childrens: 0 rankings
The choice is clear people.
I TRUST THE OCHSNER FACILITY THEY ARE STRONG LEADERS.
Ochsner was actually interested in purchasing Tulane awhile back. The deal fell through but for awhile it looked like a pretty certain thing. When all of the doctors thought that it was a sure thing, a bunch of them bailed because they did not want to work for Ochsner. Also, my wife is a nurse. When looking for a job, it was Ochsner that paid the least for the nurses. Like someone else said, greeters at CostCo and fast food workers make the same or more than the folks at Ochsner who have patient's lives in their hands.
I am a nurse and have worked at or been affiliated with all 3 hospitals at different times in my 20 plus year career. I believe that if Ochsner or Childrens take control of "the Jeffs", it will ultimately destroy any chance of choice for consumers and healthcare workers in healthcare in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Although there is the argument that they are "local" and HCA is not, think of it this way: HCA has invested in the NOLA area and stuck it out post Katrina. They are committed to continuing their relationship with the people of Louisiana with major plans in the works at bettering our community. With HCA acquiring the hospitals, I believe it evens the playing fields for all, especially for healthcare workers. Another major factor to consider is salary for nurses, doctors, and all ancillary positions. The more that is owned, the less say the employees will have in the end. Keep it interesting for all and vote HCA! HCA= CHOICE!
HCA will be the best choice by far!! They are extremely determined to invest and care for patient's in this area as well as invest in the employees. They can be a win/win/win ..... a win for patients, a win for employees, and a win for Jefferson Parish!!
Ochsner has a vested interest in the community. If the parish wants Quality Health Care for their patients then there the choice is CLEAR.
People yes ochsner gives great service but I have been born and raised in new orleans i dont want my hospital choices to be like my entergy choices!!!!
I am so impressed with all the new departments and developments with ochsner. I think if they are able to grow within their own environment, they can grow and enhance East and West Jefferson also. I vote Ochsner.
I was discharged from an HCA hospital about 6 weeks ago - treated phenominally by the nurses, physicians, lab techs, radiology techs, etc. I couldn't ahve asked for better, more caring practioners. All this and HCA pays taxes as well. Good care, supports the community financially - there are advantages to having the resources and expertise a "big" company brings to health care.
Both my parents are patients a East Jefferson Hospital. My parents and I were excited when we learned that East Jefferson may be managed by Ochsner. They have been with their doctors for so many years, but not have been happy with some of the medicare incident a few years ago. They would be relieved to know that ochsner is managing their healthcare.
I have only experienced the best medical care at Ochsner. I recommend that they become partners with East Jefferson and West Jefferson Hospitals. It would be great to see a great facility run those 2 hospitals.
I trust the ochsner facility. They are strong leaders and healthcare providers in the medical industry. I have doctors at East Jefferson and would like to see them partners with ochsner.
At least Ochsner has a vested interest in the health of the community. Do your research people.
If we want the best quality healthcare at our hospitals for our community, Ocshner should be the choice. HCA will move whatever jobs they can out of the state to save money. Save your jobs!
You may not want Ochsner to have a monopoly in the New Orleans area, but lets be honest, they're better suited to run East and West Jeff than Children's. As far as HCA goes, would you rather a local company in Ochsner have a monopoly or let a national "Chain", which is what HCA is, take over the two and possibly start running Ochsner out of business, taking tax dollars and profits out of state? I hope you like the service you get at McDonald's because that's what it sounds like we'll get from HCA... Bet you didn't know they're already running Tulane into the ground and soon they'll be doing the same to Lakeside. Yes, HCA already runs those two.
Amen to that Dragan Plus I think having the ability to get a second option is lessoned if ochsner buys everything up... We need diversity in our city !!!
I agree with the comment above. Ochsner is putting private practices out of business, making the Healthcare industry a monopolized market which is not fair to the patients either. It is taking away their choice of medical care. Not to mention the employees that run the hospitals are some of the lowest paid in the city. The new Costco in New Orleans is paying more for sitting at the front doors than people who have patients lives in their hands. It just doesn't seem ethical.
I do not think Ochsner needs control over another Hospital. When Medical Personnel want to work for some one else, there will be no options.