Louisiana Heart Hospital in Lacombe and its affiliated medical group filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Jan. 30 and will close by the end of February.
The hospital has faced financial challenges in recent years, as it struggled to balance shrinking reimbursements with rising operating costs. Hospital officials engaged in discussions with potential buyers in recent months, but no agreement has been reached.
"After many months of careful consideration and review of all available options, it has become clear we can no longer sustain the continued losses and have no choice but to cease operations," said Scott Boudreaux, CEO of Louisiana Heart Hospital and Medical Group.
The 134-bed hospital and its owners are seeking the bankruptcy court's approval of a $4.2 million debtor-in-possession loan. The loan will be used to pay employee salaries and benefits while the hospital winds down operations and to help employed physicians transition to independent practice.
The hospital said care for current inpatients will not be interrupted. Patients with upcoming scheduled procedures are encouraged to contact their physician.
Louisiana Heart Hospital offers inpatient and outpatient medical, surgical and diagnostic services covering more than 35 specialties, including orthopedics, gastroenterology, neurology, and vascular and general surgery.
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