Leonard J. Chabert Medical Center

02/23/2026

Launched in 2021 in New Orleans East, Ochsner Health’s STEM Pathfinder program, focused on science, technology, engineering and math, gives students entering grades 9–11 a cost-free, hands-on introduction to careers in healthcare and science. With mentorship from Ochsner clinicians and professionals, students build clinical skills, take part in lab experiments and gain real-world experience in a supportive learning environment.

What started in New Orleans East has grown to include Baton Rouge, St. Charles Parish, Shreveport, Monroe and Lafayette. We are proud to help students across Louisiana discover their passion for healthcare and imagine what’s possible.

Applications are now open for the STEM Pathfinder summer 2026 program. Learn more and apply at https://ow.ly/Hgeg50YelNZ.

02/20/2026

Happy Mardi Gras! 💜💚💛

Our tiniest revelers at Ochsner celebrated Mardi Gras in true festive fashion.

At Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge and Ochsner Medical Center – Kenner, our precious king cake babies were dressed for the occasion and ready to say, “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” 🎉

We were excited to welcome Stevie, Emmanuel and Veda in Baton Rouge, along with Turner and Liam in Kenner, all born on Mardi Gras Day. There’s no sweeter way to celebrate than with brand-new little lives joining the party.

A heartfelt thank you to our labor and delivery teams at both campuses for going the extra mile to make the day special for these families. Your commitment makes all the difference during such a meaningful moment. 💜💛💚

02/19/2026

Meet the face behind your care: Melissa Taravella, NP, a family nurse practitioner at St. Charles Parish Hospital. 💙

Melissa chose primary care because she wants patients to leave their visits feeling heard, informed and confident about their health. She takes time to listen and explain what’s going on, so you know what to expect and what steps come next.

Learn more about Melissa and schedule an appointment here: https://ow.ly/vZuv50Ycmti

02/19/2026

Love is still in the air at Ochsner Medical Center - Kenner. ❤️

Our tiniest Valentines made the holiday extra sweet this year. We were proud to welcome Ailanny and Skai on Feb. 14, bringing even more joy to Valentine’s Day. Their arrivals remind us that love grows in the most beautiful ways.

Thank you to our labor and delivery team at Ochsner Medical Center - Kenner for creating such special moments for these families. Your compassion and dedication help families begin their journeys with care and support. 💗

02/18/2026

Heart disease does not always come with obvious warning signs. During , Dr. James Jenkins, an interventional cardiologist at Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans, shares five sneaky symptoms that could signal a heart problem.

Knowing what to watch for can help you take action sooner and protect your heart. Read more:

Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men and women in the United States and refers to several types of heart conditions.

02/13/2026

We all love the thrill of catching the best throws, but staying safe keeps the party going. 🎭

Crowds, uneven ground and heavy beads can sometimes lead to unexpected injuries such as concussions. We want to help you spot the risks so you can focus on the fun without a trip to the emergency room.

Let’s commit to a safe Carnival together, and read our expert guide to protecting your krewe this season. 💜💚💛

Read more:

Stay safe this Mardi Gras with essential tips for Mardi Gras concussion prevention and enjoy the festivities without injuries.

02/12/2026

Colorectal cancer is curable if caught early, which is why regular screenings are so important. Starting at age 45, you should talk with a healthcare provider about testing options.

Learn more about screening options, symptoms and treatment:

Early onset cases of colorectal cancer are on the rise, but it is curable if caught early. Sometimes there are no symptoms until colorectal cancer has advanced, which is why screening is so important.

02/12/2026

Margaret Gioia, 79, and her daughter, Michele Molen, 57, joined Golden Opportunity looking for a new way to spend time together. What they found was connection, adventure and a welcoming community.

After hearing friends talk about their travel experiences, Margaret decided to sign up for Ochsner Health’s Golden Opportunity program last year. Michele quickly followed her lead. Their first outing was a train trip to Laurel, Mississippi, for the Loblolly Festival. They spent the day exploring festival booths and food trucks, enjoying the freedom to wander at their own pace while sharing the experience with fellow members.

Margaret, a retired nurse and healthcare business owner who now teaches swing dancing and volunteers in the community, appreciates the variety. “There are a lot of activities,” she said. From nutrition and exercise classes to learning how to use Zoom, each week brings something new.

For Michele, who has a background in social work and human resources, the program is a chance to create lasting memories with her mom. Together, they have found more than events on a calendar. They have found friendship, support and shared joy.

Golden Opportunity is a 50-plus lifestyle program designed to help you stay active, engaged and connected.

Ready to start your own adventure? Learn more and join today: https://ow.ly/op6E50Ye2tr

02/11/2026

Thinking about quitting smoking for your pregnancy? Quitting can be a challenge, but you don't have to face it alone. Jamie Borner, NP, outlines clear, actionable steps to help you become smoke-free. Learn about creating a quit plan, finding support and how programs like the Smoking Cessation Program at Ochsner can help provide the support you need to give your baby the best start.

Smoking during pregnancy can not only impact the mother’s health, but it can also affect the baby’s development and well-being. Use these tips to quit smoking and stay smoke-free.

02/11/2026

Date and Donate is the sweetest way to save lives.

When you and your Valentine donate blood together with Ochsner Health, you’ll receive a dinner date on us.

Bring your bae or bestie who has never donated blood with Ochsner before, and you’ll both receive an e-gift card to a restaurant through our New Donor Referral Program. Because sharing the love helps save lives.

Your Date and Donate appointments can be scheduled for any day, not just Valentine’s Day.

Schedule your appointments at https://ow.ly/kRa050Y0q7c
After donating, claim your e-gift cards at https://ow.ly/b3w750Y0q7b

02/10/2026

Laissez les bons temps and a healthy heart rouler! 💚

Dr. William Bennett, vascular medicine physician at Ochsner Health – Metairie, shares simple tips to enjoy the parades, food and fun without overloading your heart. Stay hydrated, choose smaller portions and don’t skip your medications.

Read more:

If you are on a low-sodium diet or prescription medication for high blood pressure, here's how to celebrate Mardi Gras safely.

02/10/2026

While you enjoy the Mardi Gras parades and festivities, know that Ochsner Urgent Care is here for any non-emergency needs that may arise.

Illnesses and minor injuries can happen unexpectedly, so before you laissez les bons temps rouler, take a moment to find the Ochsner Urgent Care clinic nearest to the parade route and check its specific Mardi Gras opening hours.

Our teams are ready to provide the expert care you need, so you can get back to the fun.

Plan ahead and see our locations and holiday hours: https://ow.ly/hxkT50Y1UnE

03/28/2022

Are you following our Ochsner Bayou page? If not, head over to and click the follow button! We will be sharing all the latest news, updates and stories happening with Ochsner locations throughout the Bayou area.