Our Lady of the Angels Health Marks 10 Years of Commitment and Impact

April 02, 2024

In commemorating a decade of service, innovation and community impact, Our Lady of the Angels Health proudly marks its 10th anniversary as a cornerstone of healthcare excellence in Washington Parish. Over the past 10 years, an unwavering commitment to the community has yielded substantial achievements that reflect the dedication to providing exceptional healthcare and making a lasting difference.

“We were filled with joy upon learning that the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System would expand our ministry into Washington Parish by acquiring the LSU Bogalusa Medical Center in March of 2014,” said Sister, Uyen Vu, RN, MSN, NFA, Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady (FMOL). “The opening of Our Lady of the Angels Hospital was an active response to serve the healthcare needs of the community. The FMOL Sisters continue to pray for patients, team members and leaders at Our Lady of the Angels. May God continue to bless this ministry as they bring the Spirit of Healing to all those they serve.”

Economic Impact and Commitment to Education

Our Lady of the Angels Health has played a vital role in the local economy, standing as one of the three largest employers in Washington Parish. With a remarkable $327 million invested in its workforce since 2014, Our Lady of the Angels has prioritized the well-being of its community. Additionally, the commitment to education is evident through strategic partnerships with LSU Health for Rural Family Medicine and Ophthalmology Residency Programs, fostering the growth of future healthcare professionals.

“Our health system is dedicated to extending the healing ministry of Jesus to all of God’s people with a special emphasis on serving those most in need," said Ralph Serpas, vice president and chief operating officer of Our Lady of the Angels Health. “Over the past decade, we've expanded access to care, invested over $24 million in facilities updates and diagnostic equipment, and partnered with LSU Health to strengthen the physician pipeline across the Northshore region and Louisiana. I am so proud of all that our team has accomplished over the past 10 years, and we are just getting started.”

Healthcare Excellence and Community Impact

Our Lady of the Angels Hospital is nationally acclaimed for its exceptional healthcare standards, holding The Leapfrog Group's Top Rural Hospital award, earned twice in 2020 and 2023, where it stood as one of only two in Louisiana and 15 nationwide. Complementing this recognition, the hospital maintains a Leapfrog Safety Grade "A," affirming its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and quality. As a full-service acute care hospital, it ensures comprehensive patient care, extending its impact beyond the walls through initiatives like mobile health fairs, local collaborations, and workforce development programs. These accolades and community-focused efforts embody the hospital's dedication to healthcare excellence and the well-being of the community.

Cultural Commitment

The unique culture at Our Lady of the Angels Health, characterized by an extremely low turnover rate and a warm, faith-based environment, has contributed to its reputation as a great place to work. As the only Catholic hospital in the Greater New Orleans Diocese, Our Lady of the Angels provides comprehensive, compassionate healthcare for the Washington Parish community.
To learn more about Our Lady of the Angels Health and its decade of healthcare excellence, please visit oloah.org/10-years.