LSU board OKs privatization deals for four hospitals

BATON ROUGE — The LSU Board of Supervisors today approved contracts to privatize four more of its public hospitals in agreements missing key financing details, including how much Louisiana receives for turning over management. The contracts cover privatization of LSU's hospitals in Shreveport, Monroe, Houma and Lake Charles. Backing came despite concerns from some lawmakers who told board members more information is needed to ensure the state is getting a good deal. Board Chairman Hank Danos said he's confident in the contracts because the university system and Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration have been vetting the arrangements with lawyers and technical experts.