The Medical Association of Southeast Louisiana

Meet MASELA,
A Better Way Forward for Physicians.

Seeking connection, respect, and balance – in both your professional and personal life?

You’re not alone. That’s why we’ve built a better boat: a new physician organization in Southeast Louisiana designed to represent your interests while supporting you, your patients actively, and our communities.

Join us in strengthening the practice of medicine and improving access to care across our region.

Join Now

Our Mission to Our Community

To unify and empower physicians in Southeast Louisiana to enhance medical care and improve the quality of life in our community. Guided by this mission, our vision is to create a supportive medical practice environment that fosters physician satisfaction and well-being while ensuring accessible, equitable, and high-quality care for all.

Our Vision

Unity - Strength - Advocacy

Our vision is to create a medical practice environment that supports and encourages physicians’ professional satisfaction and well-being and enables them to provide accessible, equitable, and quality medical care.

We foster collegiality and diversity, advocate for physicians and their patients, and embrace innovation to advance care. Guided by service, integrity, and respect, we work together to support physicians and improve the health of our community.

Physicians interested in becoming part of the Medical Association of Southeast Louisiana (MASELA) are encouraged to join one of our affiliated medical societies, if eligible.

Our Partners

Physicians interested in becoming part of the Medical Association of Southeast Louisiana (MASELA) are encouraged to join one of our affiliated medical societies, if eligible.

Connect with Us!

💙 MASELA in Action: Shaping the Future of Louisiana Medicine 💙

We’re proud to be featured in LSMS Annual Meeting: Decisions, Direction, & Leadership in Action!

The article highlights MASELA’s dedication to advancing physician well-being and shaping the future of Louisiana’s medical community through leadership, advocacy, and collaboration. 🩺✨

#MASELA #LouisianaMedicine #PhysicianWellBeing #MedicalLeadership #HealthcareAdvocacy #FutureOfMedicine

✨ Top Doctors in New Orleans ✨

We’re thrilled to celebrate Dr. Erin Boh, MD, PhD, FAAD, featured on the cover of New Orleans Magazine’s August 2025 issue! 🏆

Recognized as one of the city’s Top Doctors, Dr. Boh’s expertise in dermatology and commitment to advancing healthcare continues to inspire and elevate our medical community. 💙

#TopDoctor #Dermatology #NewOrleansMedicine #HealthcareLeadership #MedicalExcellence #InspiringDoctors

🌟 MASELA in the Community 🌟

MASELA members recently joined the Spirit of Charity & @umcno Cocktail Social —a wonderful celebration of community, art, and service. Hosted by Merry McSwain, daughter of the late Dr. Norman McSwain, the event showcased artwork by local artist Terrance Osborne Gallery and honored Dr. Peter DeBlieux as the 2025 Spirit of Charity Award recipient.

It was an inspiring evening celebrating leadership and dedication to advancing healthcare in our region! 💛🎨

🌟 MASELA Member Spotlight: Dr. Michael Maristany 🌟

Congratulations to Michael Maristany, MD, on his appointment as the next Department Head of Radiology at LSU School of Medicine!

A respected physician leader since joining LSU in 2006, Dr. Maristany combines clinical expertise, academic excellence, and strong leadership. Outside of work, he and his wife Christine—President of the Orleans Medical Society Alliance—are dedicated to supporting Louisiana’s medical community.

We’re proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement! 🎉👏

🌴 LSMS Annual Meeting in Florida! 🌴

Last month, members of MASELA, JPMS, and OPMS gathered for the LSMS Annual Meeting in sunny Florida! It was a fantastic opportunity to connect, share insights, and stay up-to-date on the latest in the medical community.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the conference highlights 📸✨

20 Years Since Hurricane Katrina ⚜️

Tomorrow marks two decades since the storm that changed New Orleans forever. Katrina tested the soul of our city, but it also revealed the strength, courage, and heart of our people.

We remember the resilience of our healthcare heroes who cared for patients through the chaos, and the community that came together to rebuild—just like New Orleans always does. 💛💜💚

Hear from our physicians as they share their stories and the lessons that continue to inspire us today.

Honoring Courage: Dr. John Cole on Hurricane Katrina 🕊️

Twenty years after Hurricane Katrina, Dr. John Cole shares his memories of the storm and the incredible resilience it revealed in our community.

From navigating life-changing challenges to witnessing acts of compassion and unity, his story reminds us of the strength and dedication of those who serve others in times of crisis.

Hear Dr. Cole’s reflections on how those experiences continue to shape and inspire our community today. 💛

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#neworleans #hurricanekatrinaanniversary #hurricanekatrina #nola #nolahealth

Reflections from Dr. Maurice Sholas: 20 Years After Hurricane Katrina 🕯️

Twenty years after Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Maurice Sholas shares his reflections on one of the most defining moments in our community’s history.

From the uncertainty and challenges of those early days to the resilience, solidarity, and compassion that followed, his story highlights the strength of both physicians and the communities they serve.

Take a moment to hear his powerful reflections and the lessons that continue to inspire us two decades later. 💛

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#neworleans #hurricanekatrinaanniversary #hurricanekatrina #nola #nolahealth

Honoring Dr. Juan Gershanik: 20 Years After Hurricane Katrina 🕯️

This month, we reflect on the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the incredible bravery of Dr. Juan Gershanik, a neonatal perinatal pediatrician who went above and beyond to save the most fragile lives.

In 2005, amid the storm, Dr. Gershanik personally cradled a premature infant during a helicopter evacuation to Baton Rouge, hand-pumping oxygen and ensuring the baby’s safety every step of the way. His courage and dedication continue to inspire gratitude and admiration across our community.

From WWL’s Bound by Katrina:
“Your incubator weighs 250 pounds. This won't go out maybe a yard or two and will fall down again.”

Dr. Gershanik held the tiny infant against his skin to provide warmth, never missing a breath.

💛 Comment “Nola” to read the full story and watch the video!

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#neworleans #hurricanekatrinaanniversary #hurricanekatrina #nola #nolahealth

Dr. Josh Lowentritt Remembers Hurricane Katrina ⚜️

“We had a chance to rebuild this city the right way! The community health centers really developed and expanded their reach to bring primary care throughout the whole community.”

As we mark 20 years since Hurricane Katrina, Dr. Lowentritt reflects on the uncertainty of those early days and the incredible resilience and unity that followed. His story is a powerful reminder of the strength we find in community and the hope that carries us through even the toughest storms.

👉 Take a few minutes to watch his reflection and join us in remembering.

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#neworleans #hurricanekatrinaanniversary #hurricanekatrina #nola #nolahealth

Being a doctor can be challenging — but you don’t have to do it alone. 🤝

MASELA is a space where doctors come together to support, inspire, and empower each other every day. If you want to find your people, grow your skills, and make a lasting impact, Masela is waiting for you 💙

Join us and start your journey with us at https://masela.org/join

✅ 2025 Louisiana Legislative Session = Real Progress

With help from dedicated physicians and MASELA, we saw major wins in:
- Medicaid protection
- Maternal health
- Mental health access
- Physician advocacy
There’s more to do — and your voice matters.

👉 Join or renew your MASELA membership today at https://masela.org/join

📣 Also, don’t forget to register for the LSMS House of Delegates – July 31–August 2.

Strength in Numbers 💪

Being a physician can feel overwhelming, but you’re never alone with MASELA by your side. Our community of dedicated doctors offers support, resources, and advocacy to help you thrive.

Join MASELA today and connect with like-minded professionals who understand your journey!

✨ A Heartfelt Thank You! ✨

We are beyond grateful to everyone who made the Celebration of Medicine a success! 🙌 A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors for your generosity and support—it truly means the world.

A special shoutout to the OMSA group for your dedication and hard work in bringing this event to life. Your efforts do not go unnoticed!

Lastly, we are incredibly grateful to our emergency responders for their dedication and service to our community. 💙 A big congratulations to all of our awardees—your hard work and achievements deserve to be celebrated!

Happening Next Friday! 🎉
Join us for the Celebration of Medicine on Friday, March 21, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Spend an unforgettable evening connecting with friends and colleagues as we:
 🏅 Honor our incredible 50-year physicians (Class of 1975)
 🚑 Recognize our dedicated Emergency Responders for their unwavering service
 👏 Celebrate exceptional local physicians who have made a lasting impact in our community

It’s a night of gratitude, inspiration, and connection — you won’t want to miss it!

✨ Giving back to our community! ✨

OMSA members Sarah Lilly & Christine Maristany, along with Julie Marsh, Director of Operations, and Sister Mary Lou Specha, Executive Director, recently connected to support Hotel Hope—a local nonprofit providing emergency shelter, supportive services, and housing assistance to women and their children in a safe, loving environment 🏡

Dr. Rice and Tara Legendre from MASELA spread some sweet gratitude with king cakes for our incredible first responders!
Thank you, TroopNOLA(pictured), EMS, NOFD HQ #29, and NOPD 8th District for your dedication and service!

Mental Health Matters in Healthcare!

At MASELA, we recognize the crucial role mental health plays in overall well-being. Our resources and support channels are designed to assist healthcare professionals and organizations on their mental wellness journey.

Central to our mission is the LifeBridge Physician Revitalization Program, which aims to foster a vibrant, healthy, and functional medical community where every physician is valued and supported.

Partner with us to prioritize mental health and support your team—because no one should face this alone.

Visit masela.org/LifeBridge to learn more!

#MentalHealthMatters #MaselaOrg #HealthcareSupport #LifeBridgeProgram

Food for Thought: “The only true wealth is health.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson 🌟

This September, let’s focus on prioritizing health and well-being across our organizations.

MASELA provides valuable programs and resources to support your team’s health journey. Partner with us to enhance wellness in your workplace and ensure your staff thrives.

#HealthQuotes #MaselaOrg #WorkplaceWellness #OrganizationalHealth

At MASELA, we are proud that our members have celebrated 50 years of recognizing excellence in the medical field.

We remain dedicated to maintaining the highest standards and offering exceptional guidance to our members. Here’s to continuing our tradition of excellence and support!

#50Years #PhysicianRecognition #MaselaOrg #ExcellenceInMedicine

🌟 This week, we’re shining a light on Dr. Patrick Breaux!

He does incredible work in his community, making a real difference every day. We’re so thankful for his partnership and the positive impact he bring to our shared mission.

Here’s to continuing our work together for a brighter future! 🙌✨

#CommunityHeroes #GratefulForYou #MakingADifference

🔗 Chronic pain is a significant issue that affects millions of Americans, and our dedicated physicians at MASELA are at the forefront of providing specialized care and resources.

Partner with us for Pain Awareness Month to support those living with pain through collaborative initiatives and access to expert medical professionals.

Visit Masela.org to learn how we can work together to make a difference.

#PainAwarenessMonth #MaselaOrg #HealthcarePartners

🌟 Meet MASELA! 🌟

MASELA is a nonprofit professional association uniting physicians and physicians-in-training across Southeast Louisiana.

Formed by the Jefferson Parish and Orleans Parish Medical Societies in late 2020, MASELA recognizes that public health issues and medical challenges don’t stop at parish lines.

As an umbrella organization, MASELA leads the way in creating impactful programs and collaborative initiatives throughout the region.

Ready to join the MASELA community? Visit us at masela.org today! 🤝

Metairie Country Club was the setting for an extraordinary evening of celebrating the best in medicine in Southeast Louisiana. More than 160 people attended Friday's Celebration of Medicine & Awards Night sponsored by the Medical Association of Southeast Louisiana (MASELA), Jefferson Parish Medical Society (JPMS) and Orleans Parish Medical Society (OPMS). George S. Ellis, Jr., M.D., served as Master of Ceremonies. Thank you to our celebration partners, guests, and award recipients for a fantastic evening.

LAST CALL for MASELA, JPMS & OPMS Celebration of Medicine on Friday, March 10 at Metairie Country Club. We will honor your colleagues as leaders of these organizations, 50-year physicians and these deserving award recipients:

Join us next Friday to honor their accomplishments in Medicine and to celebrate Medicine in our communities. Festivities start at 7:00 p.m. To RSVP, go to masela.org/events.

MASELA President, Drs. George Ellis poses for a photo with our October 6th event speaker, Michael Myers and MASELA staff and future Medical Student, Shawn King

(L-R) Dr. George Ellis, Michael Myers, Shawn King

Last week MASELA, JPMS & OPMS hosted Dr. Marie Brown of AMA, for a presentation on time savings strategies for physicians. Attendees gained critical takeaways, tips & strategies. For more infor about MASELA and upcoming events visit: masela.org #MASELA #JPMS #OPMS

Physicians enjoyed a great Collegiality Dinner hosted by MASELA, JPMS & OPMS. Visit masela.org for more information about MASELA. #MASELA #JPMS #OPMS #proudtobeaphysician

Physicians enjoyed a great Collegiality Dinner hosted by MASELA, JPMS & OPMS.
A great time was had by all. Visit www.masela.org for more information about MASELA. #MASELA #JPMS #OPMS

Thursday was a great night to unwind at the Wrong Iron with members of MASELA, JPMS & OPMS. A great time was had by all. www.masela.org
#MASELA #JPMS #OPMS

Sunday was a fun day for MASELA, OPMS and JPMS members and their families who enjoyed City Putt in City Park. Learn more about MASELA at www.masela.org
#MASELA #OPMS #JPMS

Our physicians enjoyed a great night of networking earlier this week. Learn more about MASELA at masela.org
#MASELA #OPMS #JPMS

MASELA is pleased to announce George S. Ellis, Jr., M.D. as 2022 President. Dr. Ellis is a past president of OPMS and now serves as Vice President of LSMS. Dr. Ellis is Director Emeritus Ophthalmology of CHNOLA and Clinical Associate Professor of Ophthalmology and Pediatrics at LSU and Tulane Medical Schools.

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Meet MASELA, A Better Way Forward for Physicians.

Our Vision

Our Partners

Connect with Us!

Contact us

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Meet MASELA,
A Better Way Forward for Physicians.