For his outstanding contributions to public health in Louisiana, Richard “Dick” Dalton, MD, was awarded the esteemed 2024 Founders Award by the Louisiana Public Health Association (LPHA) at their recent annual meeting awards luncheon. As senior medical director for Louisiana Healthcare Connections, Dalton’s dedication to improving mental health, particularly in children and adolescents, has left an indelible mark on the state's healthcare landscape.
Dalton has more than four decades of experience in child and adolescent psychiatry. His decade-long tenure with Louisiana Healthcare Connections has been marked by pioneering initiatives aimed at addressing the mental health needs of Louisiana's Medicaid community. Under his guidance, Louisiana Healthcare Connections has implemented numerous programs and initiatives to support mental health, ranging from substance use treatment to community support services.
Dalton has served on various boards and committees, including the New Orleans Area Psychiatric Association and the Louisiana Psychiatric Medical Association.
"Dr. Dalton's groundbreaking work in the behavioral health arena has had a profound impact on public health in Louisiana," said Sundée Winder, PhD, MSPH, president of the Louisiana Public Health Association. "His passion for improving mental health outcomes, particularly among children and adolescents, is truly commendable.
"We are so pleased that Dr. Dalton is being honored for his exceptional achievements and unwavering commitment to improving public health in our state," added Louisiana Healthcare Connections Plan President and CEO Jamie Schlottman. "His dedication and leadership serve as an inspiration to us all."