Christ and University hospitals would be the most competitive with those kind of services. Both have very strong services in this area.

We're still hopeful that we can come to an alternative arrangement without the property sale.

Since January 12, when Christ Hospital's board originally stated its intention to withdraw, the Health Alliance has continually sought dialogue to identify and discuss the underlying issues and concerns. Since the Christ Hospital board has refused to do so, the Health Alliance has no choice but to seek a speedy resolution in the court system.

We are going to ask them (county commissioners) to increase it. We hope to get our funding at our current level.

We're having an internal discussion with the Christ Hospital board and hoping to resolve the issues internally.

We understand that the Louisiana attorney general is investigating all deaths that occurred at New Orleans hospitals and nursing homes after the hurricane, and we fully support and are cooperating with him.