BROWN, J.
This case is a companion to Patty v. Christus Health Northern Louisiana, 34,871 (La.App. 2d Cir. 08/22/01), 794 So.2d 124, rendered this same date, inasmuch as it involves the same legal issue.
For the reasons expressed in Patty, supra, the judgment of the trial court is AFFIRMED. Costs are assessed to defendant, Christus Schumpert.