Medicaid & Autism Care: Alabama Medicaid says starting July 1, doctors must approve referrals for autism applied behavioral analysis therapy, and nurse practitioners can’t make those referrals—raising worries about delays and re-diagnosis. Hospital Reimbursement Fight: Jackson Hospital lost a federal bid to force Blue Cross and Blue Shield to raise reimbursement rates, with the judge saying rewriting the contract would be against the public interest. Community Health Reading: Reach Out and Read-Alabama’s “Rx for Summer Reading” kicks off June 1–July 31, with free books handed out at pediatric visits statewide. Public Health & Safety: Alabama is urged to learn CPR as heart disease remains a leading killer, with local data pointing to high rates of coronary heart disease and high blood pressure. Local Wellness Infrastructure: Tuscaloosa broke ground on upgrades to the Belk Center at Bowers Park, including a new indoor therapy pool, aiming to support healthier, more active lives. Research Spotlight: UAH researchers report ultrasound-based findings that may help shift the body from prolonged inflammation toward tissue repair for joint healing. Care Access & Policy: Alabama Medicaid also paused a July 1 deadline tied to a new regulation, adding more uncertainty for providers and patients. Health in the News: A viral Alabama restroom incident involving a father assisting his daughters highlights ongoing debate over restroom access and safety.