Abbeville General CEO says hospital can handle parish growth

Over the next three years, Vermilion Parish is poised for a population surge, fueled by the arrival of SpaceX and its ambitious construction projects.
Estimates point to an influx of 3,000 to 10,000 new residents during this time. Even if some choose other destinations, many will make Vermilion Parish their new home.
Over the past 50 years, the parish population has risen from 43,000 in 1970 to 57,000 in 2020, an increase of 14,000.
In just four years, the parish could see its population swell, reaching an impressive 67,000 by the time the 2030 census rolls around.
While much of the buzz centers on the thousands of jobs SpaceX will bring, one Abbeville business is also gearing up for growth as the population rises.
Abbeville General stands to benefit from this population boom. But the question remains: is the hospital ready to meet the demands of so many new faces?
“Absolutely,” said Michael J. Bertrand II, Chief Executive Officer of Abbeville General. “Our hospital has experienced
significant growth over the past five years, including the addition of key service lines, expanded provider resources, and increased clinic space.”
Bertrand explained that the hospital’s Board of Commissioners has taken bold steps, crafting a forward-thinking plan centered on growth and modernization.
“Through the expansion and renovation of our Ambulatory Surgery and Obstetrics departments, as well as the Maurice Community Care Center, we are positioning ourselves to meet the healthcare needs of a growing population while continuing to provide high-quality care,” he said.
According to Bertrand, SpaceX’s arrival will spark a wave of economic change, benefiting not just the hospital but the entire Vermilion Parish community.
“We anticipate increased demand for healthcare services as more individuals and families move into the area,” he said. “This growth will create opportunities for expansion, new jobs, and enhanced services. It also strengthens our ability to retain locally educated professionals by providing more career opportunities close to home.”
Bertrand, like many others in Vermilion Parish, shares a sense of excitement about the growth on the horizon.
“Growth brings new opportunities, and we are encouraged by the positive momentum we are seeing throughout Vermilion Parish,” Bertrand said. “While the future always holds some uncertainties, we are confident that this growth will strengthen our community, create new opportunities for residents, and enhance the quality of life for generations to come.”