The new musicians' clinic must be hailed as a resounding community success story. It represents preventive medicine at its very best. And it's a significant way to show our gratitude for the musicians, singers and other artists who contribute so much to the positive identity of New Orleans and the entire State of Louisiana. The clinic provides streamlined access to care all at one location. It offers preventive care, such as health education and counseling, social services information and referral, and triage and referral services to specialists.
Tourism is a critical part of our economy and our music industry is a foundation of tourism.
But historically, these musicians and performers, who contribute so much to our unique culture and economy, have not had access to adequate health care services. As a result, many have died well before their time. One of the clinic's founders, Johann Bultman, says he first became aware of the quality of life issues facing local musicians when he was involved in his family's funeral business in the 1970's and 1980's. As a member of the board of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, he was often asked to supply a casket for destitute legend of rhythm and blues or jazz who had died. Free caskets seemed like an inadequate reward for those who had created legendary forms of music unique to Louisiana jazz, zydeco and cajun.