ZACHARY, La. (WAFB) – Lane Regional Medical Center in Zachary is exploring the possibility of affiliating with another health care organization, according to a letter addressed to members of the hospital’s medical staff that was obtained by WAFB.
The letter states the Lane Board of Commissioners authorized the hospital to begin exploring an affiliation Thursday, July 16.
CEO Frank Corcoran wrote the hospital is evaluating organizations that could help Lane expand services, invest in technology, recruit physicians, and ensure high-quality care remains available in the region.
“Lane is not closing, and our commitment to delivering exceptional care remains unchanged,” Corcoran wrote in the letter obtained by WAFB. “Our patients should continue seeking care at Lane with complete confidence, and our day-to-day operations will continue as normal.”
Corcoran also wrote that no partner has been selected and no agreement has been reached.
In the letter to medical staff, Corcoran cited changing reimbursement models, workforce shortages, capital needs, and the increasing complexity of health care delivery as reasons many independent hospitals pursue affiliations. He also pointed to recent investments at Lane, including the opening of a new patient tower and expanded clinical services.
Reached by phone Thursday afternoon, Lane Regional Director of Marketing Jon Hirsch said reimbursement challenges are growing for many medical providers but added the hospital remains financially stable. “We are financially sound,” Hirsch said.
“If you receive questions you cannot answer, please direct them to Administration or Communications rather than speculate,” Corcoran wrote to members of the medical staff.
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