International Health

For over 75 years, patients from across the United States and around the world have trusted Ochsner Health for their medical care. With access to the latest technologies like InnovationOchsner, which improves care by using technology and data to create precision-focused, patient-centered solutions to keep patients healthier and providers more efficient, Ochsner remains at the forefront of evolving healthcare.

Each day, Ochsner Health’s Centers of Excellence paves new pathways for patients’ healing and hope through compassionate, expert care, advanced technology and treatments based on the latest research. Our multidisciplinary team of providers offers cutting edge treatments in the following specialties:

Cancer Care

Ochsner’s commitment to innovative cancer research and therapy development began in 1939 with founder Dr. Alton Ochsner’s research on the link between smoking and developing lung cancer. At Ochsner, you’ll find compassionate support and the most advanced cancer care available to help you face the challenges of living with cancer.

Cardiology

When you visit the John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute for cardiovascular care, you can expect advanced diagnostic and leading-edge therapies for adult and pediatric cardiology patients in a program ranked among the best in the United States. For three years in a row, Ochsner has been the recipient of the Healthgrades Coronary Intervention Excellence Award™ and named among the top 10% in the nation for Coronary Interventional Procedures. Ochsner is also proud to have been the Healthgrades recipient of five-star for Coronary Interventional Procedures and Defibrillator Procedures.

While many cardiovascular conditions can be treated and monitored close to home, when you have a complex heart or vascular condition, require a specialized heart valve treatment or transplant, or have multiple coexisting conditions or health complications, you need an advanced level of care. You want access to the latest research, treatments and clinical trials.

At the John Ochsner Heart & Vascular Institute, our experienced multidisciplinary team provides the most sophisticated cardiovascular procedures and therapies around, including less invasive surgical and nonsurgical treatments and new therapies not offered anywhere else in the Gulf South region.

Neuroscience

At the Ochsner Neuroscience Institute, you’ll find a team of multidisciplinary specialists working together to provide the latest diagnostic and therapeutic options for adults and children with neurological conditions. Ochsner Health has been named by among the top 5% in the Nation for Neurosciences for 10 Years in a Row (2013-2022) and the top 5% in the nation for treatment of stroke for 12 years in a row by Healthgrades. Ochsner is also proud to hold the awards for Healthgrades' Neurosciences Excellence for 11 years and Stroke Care Excellence for 12 years. As the top 10% of hospitals for neuroscience and stroke care in the US, Ochsner Health has proven to provide the best, quality care for patients and putting patients first.

The Ochsner Transplant Institute is the busiest, most experienced transplant center in the Gulf South region, with 8,000+ lifesaving liver, kidney, pancreas and heart transplants performed since 1984.

Transplant

When you need a transplant, you require an advanced level of care. You want to undergo a procedure, as quickly as possible, that will help you feel better, live longer and experience minimal complications. Access to the latest research and clinical trials is also critical to ensure your surgery and post-transplant care lead to your best possible outcome.

At the Ochsner Transplant Institute, our renowned physicians, surgeons, transplant nurses and support specialists combine advanced technology, specialized procedures and a patient-focused approach to perform even the rarest and most complex organ transplants.

The Ochsner Transplant Institute is the busiest, most experienced transplant center in the Gulf South region, with 8,000+ lifesaving liver, kidney, pancreas and heart transplants performed since 1984, and our kidney transplantation patient survival rates far exceed the national average. Our transplant patients thrive, live longer and experience fewer complications.

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Named as Healthgrades' top 5% in the nation for joint replacement, Ochsner Health is the best choice for orthopedic care. While minor orthopedic injuries can usually be treated close to home, when you have a complex condition, multiple coexisting conditions or health complications, you need an advanced level of care. You want access to the latest research, treatments and clinical trials.

At The Ochsner Andrews Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute, we offer the specialized expertise and procedural experience, safety, quality and best-in-class patient experience you deserve, fortified by innovation as a research and teaching hospital. Providing the best possible patient outcomes in surgical and nonsurgical treatments for a wide range of orthopedic problems in both adults and children.

Pediatrics

We know your child’s well-being is your top priority. At Ochsner Hospital for Children, we offer the highest level of pediatric care for even the most complex needs, like cancer treatment and the only pediatric heart transplant program in the region. U.S. News & World Report ranked Pediatric Cardiology at Ochsner Hospital for Children as one of the nation’s top pediatric centers. For the fifth year in a row, Ochsner Hospital for Children has been ranked among the Top 50 Children's Hospitals in the country for pediatric cardiology and heart surgery specialties by the U.S. News and World Report and the only ranked hospital in Louisiana by U.S. News and World Report. As part of Ochsner Health, the leading health system in the Gulf South, we have received national recognition for clinical quality and patient safety.

Ochsner Hospital for Children has been ranked among the Top 50 Children's Hospitals in the country for pediatric cardiology and heart surgery by the U.S. News and World Report.

While many pediatric health conditions can be treated and monitored close to home, when your child has a complex cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, orthopedic, or ear, nose and throat condition, you need access to specialized care and the latest research, treatments and clinical trials.

At Ochsner Health, we offer the specialized expertise and procedural experience, safety, quality and best-in-class patient experience your child and your family deserve, fortified by innovation as a research and teaching hospital training the next generation of pediatric specialists.

Women’s Services

From young adults to mothers and grandmothers, we care for people of all ages. Our women’s health team includes gynecologic surgeons, gynecologic oncologists, obstetric intensive care specialists and a maternal-fetal medicine team capable of performing in-utero surgery.

These are just a few of the services and specialties Ochsner Health is proud to offer. Our staff is prepared to diagnose, treat and care for patients from all around the world. We look forward to meeting you.

"Whether I needed counseling, physical therapy or help from a social worker, Ochsner provided all of that and more. I felt very safe and secure, and it was such a positive experience."

- Limor Eisner Rosenberg, Tel Aviv Israel, Ochsner Liver Transplant patient

Concierge Services

The Ochsner International Services team offers seamless care designed specially to the patients’ needs and culture. Our goal is to give you the best possible experience.

Our team of International Patient Coordinators will provide you with complementary concierge services dedicated to lightening your load and making your visit more pleasurable.

While you focus on your medical care, upon your arrival at Ochsner Health, a dedicated team member will be assigned to be your personal contact throughout the entire course of your visit. The Ochsner trained International Patient coordinators will guide you through the logistics and scheduling involved in your stay and address any questions or requests you may have.

Our International Patient Coordinator will ensure the following:

• Confirmation of your medical appointments and procedures
• Would serve as your interpreter for all medical appointments if needed and will be your advocate throughout your care.
• Will provide you with additional explanation of the physicians’ course of action and instructions
• Will assist with hospital admissions process and follow-up doctor visits
• Will provide you with arrangements to address dietary, cultural, and religious needs
• Guide you on how to access and navigate your Patient Online Services account known as MyOchsner
• Help you navigate our system and get direction to and around Ochsner Health Hospitals and Clinics
• Recommend restaurants personalized to your preferences or diet
• Find area businesses you need, like grocery stores, banks, shopping centers, gift shops, medical supply stores and salons
• Explore area attractions and recreation and entertainment options, like parks, theaters, sporting events, tours, and art offerings

You can get in touch with your coordinator and our staff five days a week and rely on our anytime on-call services in case of emergency. And when you are here, Ochsner offers the convenience of having your doctor, pharmacy, hotel, coffee, dining options and the international office all under one roof. Our international reception area is designed to provide patients and family members with comfortable amenities and a business center for personal needs and printing.

We are here to support you every step of the way.

Learn more about patient coordinators here.

Let the International Health Services be your guide as you plan a trip to one of the most unique cities in the world. Ochsner Medical Center is conveniently located halfway between Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and Downtown New Orleans. The facility is within a 5-mile radius of New Orleans’ most popular attractions and destinations, including the famed French Quarter, Caesars Superdome, Audubon Zoo, The National World War II Museum and the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. We are here to help you enjoy the beautiful city we call home.

Exploring New Orleans

New Orleans has a rich international history. The city was founded by the French, ruled for 40 years by the Spanish and bought by the United States in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase. New Orleans is known for its distinct Creole culture, jazz and vibrant history. During the first half of the 19th century, New Orleans became the United States’ wealthiest and third-largest city, and it was the site of significant battles during the War of 1812 and the Civil War.

The city grew as a tourist attraction through the 20th century and still draws hundreds of thousands of visitors due to its annual Mardi Gras festivities, iconic food offerings, lively culture and historic architecture. Tourists enjoy a multitude of entertainment options here, including swamp tours, streetcar rides, festivals, art museums and more. No matter what you do in New Orleans or where you go, you’re sure to meet a friendly face and have the experience of a lifetime.

The International Health Services staff can provide you with a customized list of recommendations based on your interests and needs.

Brent House Hotel

Located right on the Ochsner Medical Center campus, the Brent House Hotel is the ideal place to stay when you’re traveling for care or need to be near loved ones who are receiving care at Ochsner. Brent House is conveniently located between Louis Armstrong International Airport and Downtown New Orleans, close to many local attractions.

Our guest rooms are designed to provide comfortable accommodations for patients and caregivers to rest, recover and heal during their healthcare journey. Need help during your stay? Our hospitable and bilingual staff are happy to offer any assistance needed.

At the Brent House Hotel, making you feel at home is our top priority.

Our location offers several convenient amenities. Guests can take a quick walk down the hall to dine at Bistro 42, read a book on a bench in the calm of our atrium, or indulge in a warm cup of coffee or tea at PJ’s Coffee Shop while listening to the soothing sounds of live piano music.

Hotel features include:

• Newly renovated rooms and suites
• Extended stay rooms with kitchenette
• Free covered self-parking and valet parking
• Outdoor heated pool and 24-hour fitness center
• Restaurant and coffee shop
• Laundry facilities
• Business center
• Pharmacy
• Gift shop
• Barbershop and beauty salon
• Brent House Market convenience store
• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout our guest rooms and facilities

For more information about the Brent House Hotel, talk to your patient coordinator, visit brenthouse.com to make a reservation, or call 1-800-535-3986.

What to Pack and What to Expect During Your Stay and Treatment at Ochsner

How to get here safely

• Tips to travel safely during COVID-19:
  • Observe and follow CDC guidelines
  • Wear a mask. Currently, KN95 or N95 are recommended to best protect against the current Omicron variant of COVID-19, which make up the majority of the COVID-19 cases in the U.S.
  • Wash your hands
  • Carry hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available
  • Social distance as best as you can
  • Read these articles for more travel safety tips:
    • Is It Safe to Travel with the Coronavirus Outbreak?
    • Safety Tips for Traveling

What to bring

Personal items

Bring items that will help you feel at home for your stay, including:

• Comfortable clothing, plus a robe or sweater in case you get cold in clinic rooms.

• Comfortable walking shoes and slippers. Consider elastic laces or slip-ons so you can easily take shoes on and off.

• Umbrella and rain jacket. You never know when we’ll get some rain in New Orleans.

• Personal care products and toiletries, such as shampoo, conditioner, comb, toothbrush, shaving equipment and lotion.

• Items you use on a daily basis, such as eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures, canes, walkers, crutches and other assistive devices you use for daily activities.

• Sleep aids, such as your favorite pillow or blanket.

• Earplugs, if needed for sleeping or if you’re sensitive to noise. Earphones to listen to podcasts or music during your stay.

• Phone, laptop and medical device chargers, if applicable.

• Books, magazines, playing cards or games to help pass the time. Ochsner does offer free Wi-Fi access for patients and visitors.

• Comfort items, such as your favorite snacks, a photo of loved ones or even a stuffed animal for younger patients.

Medical and registration items

Please bring any registration forms or medical records, reports, and radiology images that were requested by your care team and not already sent. Also:

• A list of your medications (prescription, over-the-counter and supplements) — including doses and why you take them. You can also bring the original bottles to your first appointment. (Or use your smartphone to take a picture of all your medication labels.)

• Your insurance information card or Medicare card

• Your prescription drug insurance card and preferred pharmacy name and address

• A copy of your living will or advance directive, so it can be placed in your medical record.

What not to bring

We recommend leaving the following items at home:

• Jewelry or sentimental, irreplaceable items

• Large amounts of cash

• Expensive technology devices

If you forget something or can't fit everything in your suitcase, you'll find convenient shops on every Ochsner campus, stocked with personal items, magazines and other items.

What to expect

How to prepare for your appointment

• Collect necessary medical records to share with your healthcare team at Ochsner in advance of your arrival
• Know your family’s health history. What should your healthcare team know that could help them in providing you treatment?
• Bring a list of questions you have about your diagnosis or treatment and be prepared to ask them.
• Be prepared to answer questions. The more your healthcare team can learn about you, the better. Some questions you may be asked are:
  • What symptoms are you having, and why are you concerned?
  • How long have you had these symptoms?
  • When do the symptom occur? How often?
  • What makes your symptoms feel worse? What makes them feel better?
  • Have you noticed new symptoms that you believe are caused by existing medical issues or concerns?
  • Do you have allergies?
  • Do you have a family history of these issues?
  • What do you expect from your visit to Ochsner Health?
• Language and translation services will be provided to patients and families who are in need of these services.

At Arrival

• When patients arrive to Ochsner, they will register at the international office.
• After registration, each patient will be assigned an International Patient Coordinator. Learn more about International Patient Coordinators.

During your appointment

• Be on time for your appointment
• Plan for some down time and bring necessary materials to prepare (books, music with headphones, etc.)
• Ask questions!
• Be honest about your symptoms, pain levels, etc.
• Write down important information from your visit
• Ask for accessibility services, like translation services. If you’re hard of hearing or have trouble seeing, ask your team to repeat information or to read information aloud for you.
• Have a clear plan in place before you leave your appointment. What are next steps? Why am I receiving these tests? What can I expect?

Your visit to Ochsner Health is an important step to regaining piece of mind when it comes to your health. Our team is here for you and will work together to create treatment plans catered specifically for you. You deserve answers when it comes to your health. And our team has them.

No matter where you live, the diagnosis of a severe condition or illness with limited treatment options can be very frightening. If you have any doubts about the diagnosis, are not happy with the advice or treatment offered, or have questions or concerns regarding the treatment you’re receiving, it is always wise to seek a second opinion. A second opinion will ensure you are fully informed and able to make important decisions regarding your medical care. International Health Services is here to help all international visitors get a second opinion from an Ochsner care provider.

At Ochsner, close collaboration between clinicians and scientists brings medical discoveries from the laboratory to the bedside. Getting a second opinion allows you not only to confirm the diagnosis but also to get a different perspective on your treatment options.

To inquire about specific specialties or treatments for international visitors, please call 504-842-3719 or email us at international@ochsner.org.

For 80 years, Ochsner has been a major referral center for patients from around the world. From prenatal care to geriatric care, patients will find a depth and breadth of medical expertise and an extensive continuum of care unique to the best healthcare systems in the world. In an effort to help us provide the most current and relevant patient care, Ochsner is proud to support one of the nation’s largest non-university academic programs for intern and residency training. What’s more, over the last years, many international physicians have relied on Ochsner for training and experience that enhance their practice at home.

Appointment Process

Who can receive treatment at Ochsner?

Ochsner Health is a system that delivers health to patients from all over the world with a mission to Serve, Heal, Lead, Educate and Innovate. Ochsner Health healed more than 900,000 people from across the globe in 2021, providing the latest medical breakthroughs and therapies, including digital medicine for chronic conditions and telehealth specialty services.

Ochsner Health has 4,500 providers in more than 90 specialties and subspecialties capable of providing diagnosis and treatment of all types of conditions. Every year, we welcome patients from all 50 states and from around the world for medical care.

Do I need to make an appointment?

Yes, for your convenience and better plan of your trip to Ochsner, it is highly recommended that you reach out to us in advanced so we can coordinate your appointments and visit to make better use of your time.

Do I need to provide my medical records?

Medical records are not necessary but are highly recommended as they will help our physicians understand better what your issues mat be and how they can better guide your evaluation and treatment. Medical records must be translated into English. Ochsner Health does not offer medical record translation services, but we are happy to recommend agencies that could help you.

How do I send my medical records to Ochsner?

If you have a copy of your medical records in English and your medical records are needed by Ochsner physicians, we will let you know how to send them to us during your call to schedule your appointment.

Do I need a referral from a physician?

In general, Ochsner Health doesn't require a doctor's referral to schedule appointments to receive care. However, your insurance company may require that you have a doctor’s referral prior to scheduling your appointments, so we recommend that you check with them. It's always good to check with your insurance company on coverage requirements.

What should I expect when I call?

When you call, you will speak with an international patient coordinator on our team who will guide you through the appointment scheduling process. Be prepared to discuss the following:

• Your medical history. If you have a copy of your medical records in English, we will let you know how to send them to us.
• Your health insurance information. You will need to provide a copy of your insurance card. If you do not have health insurance, we can discuss your preferred method of payment.
• Members of your family who are also interested in scheduling appointments. We will make all the necessary appointments for you and your family.

Patients

How can I become an Ochsner Health international patient?

International patients can request an appointment at any Ochsner Health location by contacting the international department. Please send an email to international@ochsner.org, or contact us by phone at 504-842-3719.

Do you have language (interpreter) services available?

Ochsner Health offers 24/7 interpreter services for patients without charge and in every language. Ochsner medical interpreters are experienced and can attend appointments, translate educational material for patients, and offer other necessary help. Whenever patients schedule an Ochsner appointment they will be asked if they need interpreter services.

Additionally, Spanish-speaking Ochsner staff in appointments, patient registration and financial matters can assist patients and their families before, during and after their visit.

Is video consultation available?

At present we can only offer video consults for patients within the United States. If this becomes available in the future, we will share updates as available.

Do you offer second opinions for previous diagnoses?

We are happy to offer you an in-person second opinion for any previous diagnosis. However, remote second opinions are not available currently.

Can I choose the gender of my doctor?

We can certainly try to accommodate to your provider gender preference if available.

How long do patients typically stay at Ochsner Health?

The length of your stay will depend on the number of tests and appointments you need, which will be determined based on your initial screening and recommendations for your medical care. In general, tests are completed within three to five weekdays but can take longer, especially when more extensive tests or a specialty appointment is needed. Most patients are treated as outpatients, which means that screening, tests and treatment are all done within the clinic, and patients return to their lodgings at the end of the day.

In many cases, Ochsner physicians decide on a diagnosis and provide treatment during a patient's visit. Ochsner Health’s sophisticated diagnostic infrastructure typically allows physicians to share test results in one or two days. For patients traveling from abroad, Ochsner can often adjust test scheduling, medical appointments and even surgery so that the patients spend less time away from home, incur lower costs, and make better use of their own and their families' time.

Payment Options

Is there a financial assistance program for international patients?

At present we accept payments from insurance companies, cash and embassies, however we do not offer financial assistance for international patients at this time.

Do you accept my insurance?

Ochsner Health accepts most major international insurances. Please make sure you provide your insurance information at the time you contact us to schedule an appointment so we can verify you covered services.

What are your billing processes?

If you have health insurance, we will print insurance claim forms for you and send claims either to your insurance company or directly to you, if preferred. If your international insurance is not contracted or you do not have insurance, you will be required to make a pre-care deposit before your first appointment. This amount will be applied to the initial charges. If additional services are ordered by your Ochsner physicians, you may be scheduled for an additional patient account appointment to collect an additional deposit or an estimate of proposed services. Upon completion of all visits, please return to the International Registration area to meet with the International Financial Counselor and review charges posted and get an estimate of the services that have not yet been entered into the billing record. The International Financial Counselor can answer any questions you have about charges, payments, refunds and other items. You are expected to pay your account in full at the end of your visit.

We accept three main payment options for international patients:

• Health insurance coverage
• Embassy sponsorship
• Self-payment

Our International financial services team will work with you and your insurance company to ensure you know the costs of your care and what costs, if any, you may be responsible for paying.

Travel Information

Can I travel with my family?

Ochsner Health understands the vital role loved ones play in a patient’s healing. Because each unit is different, the number of visitors and hours may be limited based on patient request, patient care or out of respect for other patients. Your assigned international patient coordinator will communicate the appropriate number of visitors and visiting hours based on your specific situation.

Due to COVID-19, Ochsner Health’s visitor policy has been modified. View our current policy here.

Are there worship areas in the hospital or nearby?

Ochsner Medical Center is proud to offer a chapel for patients and their families. For more information on spiritual care at Ochsner, click here.

Are there embassies and consulate offices in New Orleans?

New Orleans has several consulates located at short distance from Ochsner Medical Center and we will gladly arrange for transportation to anyone of these if, necessary.

For questions about Ochsner's International Health, or to become an Ochsner patient, please contact us by phone, fax or email.

T: 001-504-842-3719
E: international@ochsner.org
Ochsner International Health Services
1514 Jefferson Highway
New Orleans, LA 70121, U.S.A.