Graduate medical education (GME) in Louisiana has evolved into the present status, the sum of institutions providing medical education, as in each of the states and the country as a whole. Louisiana reflects the United States (U.S.) averages in practically every GME parameter and measurement with relatively small variations. The record suggests that GME in Louisiana is moving forward in desirable growth and improvement. In 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita produced major setbacks for GME in Louisiana. Now, the signs of recovery are robust and GME is getting back on track. Today, the health care delivery system is under scrutiny to be reformed, creating a difficult situation for all physicians and others in the medical fields and health care industry. The widely accepted reality of the growing shortage of all types of physicians may be worse by many reform proposals. This Medical Education Commission (MEC) report will provide data and comment on medical students, GME trends, and projections as background and guidance for the Louisiana plan for recovery and reform.