Louisiana Department of Health Mourns Passing of Former Medicaid Director Ruth Kennedy

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Published March 23rd, 2026

Detected March 24th, 2026

Summary

The Louisiana Department of Health announced the passing of former Medicaid Director Ruth Kennedy on March 20, 2026. Kennedy served over 40 years in public service, significantly expanding health care access and transforming the state's Medicaid program.

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The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has issued a notice mourning the passing of Ruth Kennedy, former Medicaid Director, on March 20, 2026. The notice highlights Kennedy's 40-year career at LDH, her instrumental role in expanding health care access through initiatives like LaCHIP, and her leadership in overseeing a program serving over 1 million Louisianans and expanding coverage to 400,000 working adults, transforming Louisiana's Medicaid program into a national model.

This is an informational notice regarding a significant public servant's passing and does not impose new regulatory requirements or deadlines on regulated entities. Compliance officers should note this as an internal announcement of significance to the Louisiana healthcare community.

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March 23, 2026 Louisiana Department of Health mourns the passing of former Medicaid Director Ruth Kennedy

Baton Rouge, Louisiana,

Mar 23, 2026

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is saddened to announce the passing of Ruth Kennedy, a longtime public servant and former Louisiana Medicaid director, who passed away on March 20, 2026.

Ruth Kennedy dedicated more than 40 years to public service at LDH, where she played a central role in expanding health care access for Louisiana residents. Throughout her career, she led major initiatives to expand coverage and improve care delivery, including LaCHIP, helping ensure that children and families across the state could access essential health services.

As Medicaid director, Kennedy oversaw a program serving more than 1 million Louisianans and led efforts to expand coverage to an additional 400,000 working adults. Her leadership helped transform Louisiana’s Medicaid program into a national model for innovation.

“Ruth Kennedy was a trailblazer whose work changed the trajectory of health care in Louisiana,” said LDH Secretary Bruce D. Greenstein. “She was an extraordinary public servant and a tremendous colleague who challenged those around her to think bigger and do more for the people we serve. Her commitment and deep understanding of how policy affects real people set her apart. Generations of Louisianans have access to care because of her dedication. Her legacy will continue to guide our work for years to come.”

Kennedy was widely respected by colleagues, policymakers, and health care providers across the country. Known for her practical approach and unwavering dedication, she was often the first to translate complex policy into meaningful, on-the-ground solutions for families in need.

The Louisiana Department of Health extends its deepest condolences to Ruth Kennedy’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside her.