Dr. Leonel Lacayo, MD

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Get to know Gastroenterologist Dr. Leonel Lacayo, who serves patients in Ruston, Louisiana.

A top gastroenterologist, Dr. Lacayo sees patients at his private practice, Ruston Gastroenterology Consultants. He specializes in treating conditions such as constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diverticulitis, acute pancreatitis, pancreatic cancer, and colon cancer among others.

Known for his expertise in the field, Dr. Lacayo holds medical privileges with several hospitals and medical centers, including New Orleans VA Medical Center, Baton Rouge General Medical Center – Mid City Campus, Tulane University Hospital & Clinic, and Ochsner Baptist Medical Center.

Regarding his educational background, he earned his medical degree from the Tulane University School of Medicine in 1989. He then went on to complete his residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center in 1992, followed by his fellowship in gastroenterology at Emory University in 1994.

A Fellow of the American College of Physicians, Dr. Lacayo is board-certified in gastroenterology by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). The ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit, independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. 

Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders. A gastroenterologist is a physician who has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the esophagus, stomach, small intestines, colon, liver, pancreas, and biliary system.

As a testament to his excellent patient care, Dr. Lacayo has been the recipient of the Patients’ Choice Award in 2012, and the Compassionate Doctor Recognition Award in 2012 and 2014.

A casual conversation with a board member of the Lincoln Health Foundation led to the creation of The Health Hut by Dr. Lacayo and his wife, Lisa Lacayo, in 2011. The Lacayo’s took a great interest in serving those who could not afford medical care and had limited means of transportation. Today, their legacy lives on as The Health Hut continues to provide easy access for complete primary care services to all areas of Lincoln Parish. The Health Hut also is a provider for Louisiana Medicaid. 

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