Louisiana, located in the southern United States, is divided into 64 parishes, which function similarly to counties in other states, and contains more than 300 incorporated cities, towns, and villages. New Orleans is the largest city and a major cultural and economic center, while Baton Rouge serves as the state capital. Other significant cities include Shreveport, Lafayette, and Lake Charles. Louisiana has a population of approximately 4.6 million people, making it the 25th most populous state in the U.S. Covering an area of about 52,378 square miles, it ranks 31st in size. Louisiana’s geography is characterized by its vast wetlands, bayous, and river systems, including the Mississippi River, which greatly influences the state’s economy through agriculture, shipping, and energy production. The state’s major airports include Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), which serves as the primary gateway for domestic and international travel, and Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport (BTR). Other notable regional airports include Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV) and Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT), providing crucial air service to different parts of the state. Louisiana is home to several higher education institutions, including Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, known for its research programs and strong athletic tradition, Tulane University in New Orleans, a prestigious private institution, and the University of Louisiana system, which includes campuses in Lafayette and Monroe. The state’s healthcare system includes a range of hospitals and medical centers. Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans is one of the largest healthcare providers in the region, offering specialized care in various fields, including cardiology and cancer treatment. Other prominent hospitals include LSU Health Shreveport, a major teaching hospital and research center, and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, one of the state’s largest healthcare providers. Children’s Hospital New Orleans and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Shreveport offer specialized pediatric care. Louisiana’s healthcare infrastructure serves both its urban and rural populations, providing access to comprehensive medical services across the state through a combination of public and private healthcare providers.