Visiting the O Bar is not a typical visit to a doctor’s office. The prescription calls for health apps, wireless technology, and activity monitors – all to use in the comfort and privacy of one's own home.
Ochsner’s nationally recognized O Bar has redefined healthcare services around the patient, utilizing innovation and technology to enhance the patient experience.
Located at Ochsner Health Center – O’Neal, next to Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge, the newest O Bar marks Ochsner’s fifth location, joining one in Covington, Marrero, and two in New Orleans.
“Patients are at the center of everything we do,” said Aldo Russo, MD, regional medical director, Ochsner Baton Rouge. “The focus has shifted toward teaching people how to stay healthy, keeping them well, and working together to avoid trips to the doctor’s office.
“We recognize that delivery of care has many facets and our patients are demanding effective digital interactions to handle issues that will not require an office visit. Our strategy consists of creating a digital infrastructure that complements our physical presence. The O Bar is the beginning of this journey.”
Ochsner Health System was the first in the country to introduce the concept of a “genius bar” in a health setting. The O Bar carries a variety of physician-recommended products and features a state-of-the-art iPad® bar which allows patients to test drive more than 100 Ochsner-approved health apps. Featured apps focus on wellness, nutrition, fitness, diabetes, women's health, smoking cessation, and more.
The semi-retail space stocks the latest devices, including Bluetooth blood glucose monitors, wireless blood pressure cuffs, wireless scales, activity monitors, and others that sync with a smartphone and can update results directly into your Ochsner electronic medical record.
Technologically challenged? The O Bar is staffed with a technology specialist behind the counter between 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. It’s free to speak with the specialist, who is there to answer questions, assist in choosing the right product or app for your lifestyle, and provide setup, guidance, and support.
“Innovation is part of our mission and we are relentless about using the latest breakthroughs in science and technology to save and change more lives in the communities we serve,” said Aimee Quirk, chief executive officer, innovationOchsner. “The O Bar is a community resource that engages patients in technology and tools to improve their health and well-being. It’s just one of the ways Ochsner is leading the way in digital health, both regionally and nationally.”
Anyone can go to the O Bar for helpful information and to learn about new technology and apps that help people lead a healthier life. O Bar is located on the Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge campus, off I-12 (Exit 7, O’Neal) in Plaza I. A second O Bar will open in 2019 at the new High Grove Medical Complex, off I-10 (between Bluebonnet & Siegen).