November 30, 2007 Parish Health Unit Opens in Mid-City New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS, Nov 30, 2007 - It is now easier and more convenient for citizens of Orleans Parish to receive preventive health care services with the opening of a parish health unit in the city. Located at 3308 Tulane Avenue, the newest health unit is at the site of the former Orleans Women’s Clinic that was devastated by hurricane Katrina.

According to Sharon Howard, assistant secretary for the Department of Health – Office of Public Health, the opening is the result of both state and local officials working together to ensure the return of vital public health services to the city.

“People have been working tirelessly to get these services restored to this devastated community,” Howard said.

The health unit began providing services earlier this week, and a grand opening celebration is scheduled for Thursday, December 6 at the facility.

The Orleans Women’s Clinic has historically been a reliable medical resource in the Mid-City community. It has served thousands of local residents in the New Orleans area for the past 15 years.

“Our local health units have always been a welcoming provider to a diverse population in the New Orleans area. We are pleased to continue the tradition of the former Orleans Women’s Clinic while expanding its public health services,” Howard added.

Services available will include: the Women Infants and Children (WIC) program, immunizations, maternal and child health, family planning, sexually transmitted disease and tuberculosis surveillance. The health unit will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 3308 Tulane Ave.

For more information, call the Orleans health unit at (504) 826-2560 or (504) 826-2561.