Facility expansion makes way for Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute

Lafayette, La – Ochsner Lafayette General will host a groundbreaking event for the expansion of the Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedic Center, which will transform into the Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute. The milestone event will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 29, at 4212 W. Congress St., Lafayette, La.

The facility is poised for a major renovation and expansion aimed at elevating its orthopedic treatment capabilities. Ochsner Lafayette General is investing in a comprehensive upgrade that will add a 17,200-square-foot enhancement to its existing Orthopedic facilities, along with a 14,000-square-foot expansion dedicated to Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine services. The project has an estimated cost of $19 million.

“Ochsner Lafayette General has always been committed to delivering the highest quality of care to our patients. The development of the Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute is a testament to that commitment, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation in sports medicine and orthopedic care. We are excited to see how this facility will continue to serve the community and support the health and performance of athletes of all levels – both now and into the future,” said Patrick Gandy, Chief Executive Officer, Ochsner Lafayette General.

This new state-of-the-art facility represents a new era in sports medicine and injury care. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and tools for injury prevention, recovery, and performance enhancement, this institute is designed to meet the diverse needs of athletes at every level. From anti-gravity treadmills to advanced controlled resistance testing and an array of indoor and outdoor training surfaces, including professional-grade turf, this facility has it all.

The expansion will also include:

• An additional 17 exam rooms with 2 additional triage rooms
• 2 additional radiology rooms
• 2 additional treatment rooms
• A new elevator to improve patient access
• Expansion of lobby area
• Private rooms for in-office procedures and fitting patients with braces
• New patients drop off that will include a collective reception and admissions
• The exterior skin consists of entirely aluminum composite panels and glazing, and more.

Originally constructed in 1985 and renovated in 2018, the building has long been a cornerstone of the Lafayette community, and now it will further elevate the standard of care provided. With a team of 35 athletic trainers, 6 physical therapists, and 12 physicians and advanced practice providers, this facility will not only increase efficiency and continuity of care but also significantly enhance the support and treatment available on high school campuses, ensuring athletes receive the highest quality care right where they need it most. The Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, connected to the Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital, will enhance seamless patient care, improve access, and elevate the overall patient experience.

“By expanding our capacity and upgrading technology, we are setting a new standard for sports medicine in Acadiana. As the region's only facility dedicated solely to sports medicine, we focus on both injury prevention and rehabilitation, ensuring athletes—from high school players to retirees—receive the care they need to perform at their best, on and off the field," said Brian Etier, MD, Co-Medical Director for Ochsner Lafayette General Sports Medicine.

In 2022, Ochsner Health announced a partnership with Dr. James Andrews to create the Ochsner Andrews Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Institute. This partnership has led to tremendous growth for the Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Institute, including expanding the current facility, and enhancing sports performance protocols and offerings, ensuring top-notch care for patients and athletes. Dr. Andrews will attend the historic event.

“We are honored to have Dr. Andrews joining us at the groundbreaking event, as his expertise and vision have been instrumental in driving these advancements forward. "It's an exciting time for sports and health enthusiasts across the region, and we are proud to be leading the way in delivering innovative, world-class care," continued Dr. Etier.

The Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute expansion is projected to open Fall 2025 and is a collaboration with Catalyst Healthcare Real Estate, LEMOINE, and WHLC Architects.

About Ochsner Lafayette General
Ochsner Lafayette General has more than 5,500 employees and serves 220,000 patients per year. The organization includes Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center (Ochsner LGMC); Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital; Ochsner Lafayette General Surgical Hospital; Ochsner St. Martin Hospital; Ochsner University Hospital & Clinics (Ochsner UHC); Ochsner Acadia General Hospital; Ochsner Abrom Kaplan Memorial Hospital; Ochsner American Legion Hospital; and several clinics, urgent cares and professional centers. Ochsner LGMC is the only Level II Trauma Center in Southwest Louisiana. Both Ochsner LGMC and Ochsner UHC are major teaching hospitals, providing graduate medical education across many disciplines. To learn more, visit Ochsner.org/Lafayette.