The future of medical care for the medically indigent in Louisiana and its relationship to medical education.

The Charity Hospital system of care for the medically indigent in Louisiana has been underfunded both for operation and for capital for a number of years. As a consequence, care is declining in quality and medical education suffers. This article examines the problems, issues, and possible courses of action. Considered are operating authority and governance, organization and finance of care, and the likely impact on medical education; it does not reach conclusions or make recommendations. Rather, its purpose is to stimulate rational discussion about these important matters.