January 7, 2026

After a scientific review of the underlying science, comparing the U.S. child and adolescent immunization schedule with those of peer, developed nations, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Acting Director Jim O’Neill has updated the U.S. childhood immunization schedule. The CDC will continue to recommend that all children are immunized against 10 diseases for which there is international consensus, as well as varicella (chickenpox).

January 7, 2026

FMOL Health and Orion Laboratories announced a joint venture partnership to expand access to Louisiana-based laboratory services for patients and providers across the state. The collaboration aligns FMOL Health’s integrated regional care network and clinical expertise with Orion Laboratories’ local laboratory operations, technology platform, and logistics—supporting a more coordinated lab experience from test ordering through results delivery.

January 7, 2026

Lane Regional Medical Center announced the promotion of Brittany Casey to chief quality officer (CQO). In her new role, Casey will oversee enterprise-wide quality strategy, regulatory compliance, performance improvement, and organizational excellence initiatives. She will report directly to Frank Corcoran, chief executive officer.

Casey, previously served as director of professional development.

January 7, 2026

By:Julie O'Donoghue-January 3, 2026 Louisiana Illuminator

Louisiana will leverage an anticipated $1 billion in federal funding for rural health care over the next five years by expanding existing training programs and creating new financial incentives for medical professionals to work in rural communities. 

December 30, 2025

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is announcing that Louisiana will receive over $208 million through the Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), established under President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts legislation. Louisiana’s award amount is among the highest in the Nation, and among the top three in the Southeast.