Lauren DeFrates is the Vice President of Emergency Services for Ochsner Health. She is responsible for the strategic vision, long-term planning, direction, and overall accountability of over 20 emergency departments across the gulf south. Ochsner Health Emergency Services treats over 600,000 patients annually, with two Emergency Medicine residency locations, one 2 trauma emergency department, and a dedicated pediatric emergency department in New Orleans. Lauren received her Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Colorado State University, where she also earned her commission in the United States Air Force. Lauren has served for 20 years combined active duty and reserves, attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. She completed her Master of Science in Health Care Management from the University of New Orleans.