House Resolution No. by Representative Taylor urges the Louisiana Department of Health to conduct a feasibility study on the establishment of an inpatient hospital in St. John the Baptist Parish. The resolution highlights the historical context of healthcare in the area, noting that River Parishes Hospital was converted into a psychiatric facility after its acquisition by Ochsner Health System, leaving the parish without a local inpatient hospital. The nearest hospital is over eighteen miles away, which poses significant challenges during emergencies and has negatively impacted the health outcomes of residents.

The resolution calls for the study to assess various factors, including the distance to the nearest hospital, the community's demographics, the fiscal implications of opening a new hospital, and the overall need for inpatient medical care. The Louisiana Department of Health is tasked with submitting a report summarizing its findings to the House and Senate committees on health and welfare by February 1, 2025. The resolution emphasizes the importance of accessible healthcare for the residents of St. John the Baptist Parish and the potential benefits of a new hospital, including job creation and community growth.