SHREVEPORT, La. — Willis Knighton Health has joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network, becoming the first health system in north Louisiana to enter the collaborative program.

The network connects independent health providers with Mayo Clinic specialists and resources. Through the affiliation, Willis Knighton physicians gain access to services including electronic consultations with Mayo experts, case discussions with panels of specialists, a clinical reference database and a library of patient education materials.

“We are honored to expand our existing collaboration with Mayo Clinic as the newest member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network,” Jaf Fielder, president and CEO of Willis Knighton Health, said in a statement.

Ryan J. Uitti, M.D., medical director for Mayo Clinic Platform and the Mayo Clinic Care Network, said Willis Knighton’s addition reflects its leadership in regional health care delivery and commitment to using Mayo resources to support patients across the Ark-La-Tex.

Willis Knighton Health operates four acute care hospitals and a rehabilitation institute in Shreveport. The system employs more than 7,200 people and is the region’s largest nongovernmental employer.

The Mayo Clinic Care Network includes health systems across the United States and internationally. Members remain independent but are vetted for quality and granted access to Mayo Clinic expertise at no additional cost to patients.