Lafayette General Health and Ochsner Health System have signed a letter of intent to merge. The merger will create the largest healthcare provider in the Gulf South and expand and enhance clinical services in the region. Lafayette General will serve as a regional healthcare hub in Southwest Louisiana, while Ochsner will invest $365 million in capital and resources in Acadiana over the next decade. Lafayette General will maintain significant local control, keeping current staff and increasing base pay in the system. Pending due diligence and regulatory approvals, completion of the merger is expected in spring 2020.