Medicaid Work Rules: CMS released new rules that could add work, education, or community engagement requirements for many Medicaid adults starting Jan. 1, 2027, while exempting groups like pregnant people, people with disabilities, and many caregivers. WIC Boost in Alabama: Alabama’s WIC income guidelines and benefits increased for 2026, with more families likely to qualify; pregnant, postpartum, breastfeeding women and kids up to age 5 can apply through local county health departments or WIC agencies. Rural Hospital Support: Alabama officials and Regions Bank highlighted early wins from the Alabama Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program, including a $100,000 donation to Cullman Regional Medical Center, underscoring how partnerships can help keep rural care running. Hospital Affordability Push: A commentary argues hospital pricing and billing practices are driving unaffordable care, pointing to policy choices that protect big hospital systems from competition. Tick-Bite Allergy Warning: Health coverage spotlights Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a potentially serious allergy linked to tick bites that can trigger reactions after eating red meat or certain dairy products. AI Hallucinations in Research: A report describes how fabricated references can slip into biomedical papers when AI tools are used, raising concerns about accuracy in medical publishing. Medicare Fraud Prevention Week: Alabama’s Senior Medicare Patrol urges beneficiaries and caregivers to watch statements, avoid sharing Medicare numbers, and get free help/resources during June 1–5. School Meals for Summer: Tuscaloosa County Schools and other districts are running free summer meal programs for kids 18 and under, helping bridge nutrition gaps when school is out. Public Health & Safety: A lawmaker proposal targets nitrous oxide “laughing gas” sales after rising misuse and fatal poisonings, while Alabama also continues public reminders for tick protection.