LCMC Health, an eight-hospital system based in New Orleans, has created an office of advanced practice, according to a May 4 news release shared with Becker’s. Meghan Kirkland, PA-C, will lead the new office.
As the inaugural chief of advanced practice, Ms. Kirkland will provide strategic oversight, operational management and professional development for the system’s advanced practice providers. LCMC Health has more than 1,000 APPs, which include nurse practitioners, physician assistants and certified registered nurse anesthetists.
The system said the new office follows years of advocacy from APPs and reflects its commitment to supporting care teams and improving care delivery.
“Creating the Office of Advanced Practice is an important step forward for our health system and a meaningful investment in the providers who play a critical role in how we care for our patients and communities,” John Heaton, MD, president and chief medical officer of LCMC Health, said in the release.
“This is a system win and a recognition of the value our advanced practice providers bring every day,” Dr. Heaton said. “Meghan brings the vision, experience and leadership to help us build something transformative.”
Ms. Kirkland most recently served as executive director of advanced practice providers for Atlanta-based Piedmont Healthcare.
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