AGP Executive Report

Alabama Medical Cannabis: Bama Bloom opened in Athens, bringing medical cannabis treatment to North Alabama and reporting steady early patient interest as more residents register with the state. Opioid Awareness: Alabama marked National Opioid Awareness Day with updates on progress, including a reported 46% decline in overdose deaths. Nursing Board Cyberattack: Alabama’s Nursing Board systems remain down after a cyberattack, forcing delays and requiring about 80,000 nurses to submit applications by hand. Health Access for Seniors: The University of Alabama Retirees Association is hosting a Healthy Living in Retirement event Sept. 22 with fitness and wellness experts and practical resources for retirees. Community Health & Wellness Events: Tuscaloosa’s TUARA event and West Alabama’s Worlds of Work career fair both highlight local efforts to support well-being and future health-care talent. Workplace Safety/Religious Rights: The EEOC sued Blue Bell Creameries in Sylacauga over an alleged religious accommodation firing tied to respirator requirements.

Nursing Licensing Disrupted: A cyberattack hit the Alabama Board of Nursing, forcing nursing license applicants to submit paper applications while the online system is down. Public Health & Safety: A St. Clair County crash on I-20 involving two pedestrians left one man dead and another woman injured, with investigators still working to determine what happened. Animal Health for Hunters: The USDA launched a New World screwworm page for hunters ahead of deer season, urging people to watch for unusual wounds and report suspected cases early to protect livestock and wildlife. Breast Cancer Support in Alabama: Tuscaloosa is set for its 7th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk on Oct. 3, with free breast exams and a focus on support, remembrance, and hope. Mental Health & Veterans: An Owensboro veteran plans an 1,100-mile walk through Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky to raise awareness about veteran suicide and mental health.

Alabama Nursing: A cyberattack is disrupting the Alabama Board of Nursing’s online system, forcing nursing license applicants to submit paper applications while officials work to restore access. Public Health & Food Safety: Walmart recalled a Great Value frozen berry blend in 16 states due to possible E. coli contamination; the FDA says Michigan shoppers are not affected, but consumers with the listed lot code should not eat it. Community Health: The National MS Society is bringing Bike MS: Tour de Beach to the Alabama Gulf Coast on Sept. 26, with routes from 25 to 75 miles to support MS research and services. Maternal & Infant Safety: An 18-year-old in Alabama was sentenced to life in prison after throwing her newborn into a trash compactor in 2023. Workforce & Health Access: Alabama’s average weekly wages hit a new record high, while unemployment and labor participation stayed steady in August, according to preliminary state data. Local Environment for Health: An EPA-funded Auburn-led workshop invites anglers to help tackle litter in the lower Cahaba River watershed.

MS Awareness & Fundraising: The National MS Society is bringing Bike MS: Tour de Beach to the Alabama Gulf Coast, with a redesigned one-day ride next Saturday, Sept. 26, offering 25, 43 or 75-mile routes through Gulf Shores and Orange Beach; riders must raise at least $200, and e-bikes are allowed if they meet Society rules. Public Health & Safety: A Covington County crash east of Andalusia left one man dead and another injured; authorities say 72-year-old Larry Jones died after being taken to Andalusia Health, while 66-year-old Teresa Powell was also treated there. Community Health & Prevention: A local animal rescue in Chilton County says seven puppies were shot, with two killed and others injured; the group is seeking accountability and asking for help as at least one puppy may need amputation. Care Access & Medicaid: A Florida nursing home Medicaid denial over a $68 income gap highlights how “Miller Trust” workarounds can be needed in income-cap states to qualify for long-term care coverage. Health Education & Nursing: A Greensboro family nurse practitioner earned a DNP from the University of Alabama, focusing on earlier Type 2 diabetes risk screening in rural health settings. Native Health & History: The 33rd annual Trail of Tears motorcycle ride traveled across north Alabama to honor Native history and educate riders and communities.

Rural Health & Access: Alabama’s ADPH withdrew its objection to federal marijuana rescheduling, saying the change is procedural and that public comments focused more on marijuana than consequences for patients and mental health. Community Health: A Montgomery chamber ribbon cutting highlighted The Evening Clinics, a new after-hours and telehealth model aimed at helping busy working adults get care. Nursing & Prevention: A Greensboro nurse practitioner earned a DNP from UA, with a project focused on earlier Type 2 diabetes risk screening in rural health settings. Animal Welfare: A Chilton County rescue says seven puppies were shot, with two killed and others injured, prompting calls for accountability and a police report. Public Safety & Health: Huntsville Hospital ICU nurses helped a dying patient get baptized by using an inflatable pool and creative bedside care. Health Policy Watch: A week of coverage also flagged broader rural hospital strain and Medicare/health-care policy debates nationwide.

Alzheimer’s Care Overhaul: England’s NHS is pushing for faster dementia diagnoses, including a goal of no more than 18 weeks to get a precise diagnosis, with a new “dementia tsar” overseeing the plan. Public Health & Safety: CDC is warning of rising animal rabies cases and human exposures, as USDA prepares its annual oral rabies vaccine airdrop across the Southeast to protect wildlife and reduce spillover risk. Marijuana Policy: Alabama’s Department of Public Health has withdrawn its objection to federal marijuana rescheduling, clearing the way for Schedule III changes while the state says it can better serve patients with its existing medical framework. Community Health Listening: Tarrant County Public Health is holding free listening sessions to shape its community health assessment, focusing on barriers like cost, access, and preventive care needs. Local Wellness Access: The University of Alabama is advancing plans for a new South Campus Student Recreation Center to bring more wellness options closer to students. Identity Protection: First Southern State Bank will host a free Community Shred Day in Scottsboro, Higdon, and Rainsville to help residents prevent identity theft.

Heat Safety: The National Weather Service in Birmingham issued a Heat Advisory for Saturday, Sept. 19 (noon–8 p.m.), with heat index values up to 106°F in West Alabama—urging hydration, cooling, and checking on neighbors. Medical Cannabis in Alabama: Bama Bloom opened in Athens as Alabama’s medical cannabis program expands to North Alabama after years of litigation; patients need a state-approved physician prescription and must be 19+ with Alabama ID. Local Food Safety: Jefferson County health inspectors found serious issues at two restaurants—9th Avenue Market (84) and Jack’s #134 in Warrior (82)—triggering required reinspection within 60 days. Public Health Policy: Rep. Terri Sewell of Alabama joined a push to question HHS cuts to Office of Minority Health grants, arguing the changes could hurt maternal health, rural access, and substance use treatment. Community Health & Wellness: University of Alabama trustees approved planning for an $88M South Campus Student Recreation Center aimed at serving about 10,000 nearby students. Local Health Leadership: Tuscaloosa City Council President Kip Tyner died at 70; he had been hospitalized after a fall and previously reported internal bleeding and ulcers.

Rural Health Crisis: Alabama’s rural hospitals are under heavy strain, and advocates point to the Medicaid expansion gap as a key reason many patients can’t get coverage—new census data shows non-expansion states have nearly double the uninsured rate, with estimates that expansion could cover about 155,000 people. Medicaid & Disability Access: Pennsylvania faces a lawsuit after a court struck down Medicaid rules for people with intellectual disabilities and autism, while the Shapiro administration reimposed similar limits through agreements—families say it threatens real choice in where and how people live. AI for Health Communication: A new Alabama-linked framework argues AI in healthcare should be “health-literate,” focusing on comprehension, agency, accountability, and proportionality so systems don’t just sound right but also guide people appropriately. Medical Cannabis in North Alabama: Alabama’s medical cannabis program is finally expanding access, with Bama Bloom opening in Athens and more dispensaries expected as licensing delays unwind. Public Health Funding: Alabama’s PARCA survey finds healthcare and education are neck-and-neck as top state priorities, while most residents say both are underfunded. Dog Welfare Law: “Beau’s Law” takes effect Oct. 1, tightening outdoor tethering and care requirements, with escalating penalties for neglect. Substance Use Prevention Grants: HHS awarded $1.5 million to Alabama and two other states for faith-based youth prevention efforts aimed at stopping problems before they start.

Medicare Costs: Two Alabama Democrats, including Rep. Terri Sewell, introduced a bill to keep Medicare Part D premium stabilization going through 2029 after the Trump administration moved to end it. Opioid Response: Gov. Kay Ivey awarded more than $262,000 to speed up forensic testing for rising opioid-related cases, aiming for faster, more accurate results. Women’s Health Access: A Tuscaloosa-area event will offer 10 free women’s health and wellness check appointments on Sept. 30, covering reproductive, maternal, and mental wellness. Care for People with Disabilities: Alabama Rehabilitation Services will host a virtual Medicaid waiver session for families on Sept. 17, with details on eligibility and how to apply. Food Safety: The FDA announced a recall of multiple Tex-Mex items, including jalapeños and soup mix, tied to possible Salmonella contamination. Public Health Watch: The CDC says a major cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to lettuce is over, with cases dropping sharply in Ohio.

HIV Prevention Access: A new push highlights why long-acting PrEP still isn’t reaching Black Alabamians at the same rate—experts point to insurance gaps, healthcare access, and awareness barriers. Public Health & Food Safety: Tennessee Valley health inspectors found week-old buttermilk dressing and pudding, improper food handling after touching raw beef, and unsafe temperatures—reminding families that kitchen practices directly affect community health. Health Equity & Disease Preparedness: Alabama faces renewed concern about measles readiness, with coverage urging families to check vaccination status. Care Costs: A Place for Mom breaks down memory care pricing in Alabama, noting costs vary widely by community and care needs. Local Healthcare Updates: Jackson Hospital in Montgomery marked 80 years and its emergence from Chapter 11, while UA moves forward on major nursing school expansion to address a looming nurse shortage. Community Support: Jefferson County residents waited hours in extreme heat for power bill help—critical for keeping medical equipment running. Policy & Coverage: The White House announced $500 Obamacare refunds for nearly 1 million Americans in states including Alabama.

Veterans Health Access: A new Trump executive order aims to speed up veteran benefits and healthcare by overhauling federal data systems and pushing faster record transfers to the VA after discharge. Tobacco Policy Watch: A CDC Foundation study found Alabama’s e-cigarette directory law didn’t deliver lasting drops in flavored vape sales, with sales shifting to products not listed. Medicaid Coverage Dispute: Baldwin County families say special-needs children were denied or dropped from Medicaid waivers after moves and paperwork changes, raising concerns about access to essential care. Cancer & Prevention: Alabama health officials marked National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month with reminders on screening options, while UA’s Tide Against Suicide set a campus week of events to connect students to resources. Kidney Health: A new spotlight story urges earlier kidney testing for Black Alabamians, highlighting eGFR and urine albumin checks to catch disease before symptoms hit. Public Health Alerts: Alabama is also included in measles coverage as cases rise nationwide and vaccination rates among kindergarteners remain vulnerable. Workforce & Training: CVCC received $612,455 in workforce development grants, including funding for practical nursing and medical lab technology upgrades. Local Care Growth: Reliable Medical acquired Freedom in Mobility, expanding complex rehab services across north Alabama and nearby states. Medical Cannabis Update: A new dispensary, Bama Bloom, opened in Alabama’s rollout, offering regulated medical products for eligible patients.

Rural Hospital Closures: Seventeen Alabama rural hospitals face immediate closure risk due to ongoing financial losses and limited reserves, raising the odds of longer drives for emergency care and maternity services. Rabies Watch: The Alabama Department of Public Health is urging residents to take rabies precautions after a national rise in exposures, especially around domestic pets and bats found indoors. Kids’ Care Spotlight: Children’s of Alabama was named the state’s top kids hospital for the 17th straight year by U.S. News & World Report, with national rankings across multiple pediatric specialties. Community Health Support: Eutaw is launching a free Hypertension & Diabetes Support Group session with lunch provided, aiming to help adults learn prevention and management and connect with local resources. Local Care Growth: Jackson Hospital says it has emerged from bankruptcy and is shifting to hiring and facility improvements, including plans tied to a promised state grant. Rural Health Tech Push: A new report highlights how states, including Louisiana, are investing in rural health startups using federal rural health transformation funds. Addiction Treatment Need: Alabama’s neighbors are seeing new momentum for inpatient substance use disorder clinics, underscoring the broader shortage of residential treatment beds. Preparedness in North Alabama: Redstone Arsenal is hosting a Sept. 23 preparedness roundup to connect residents with emergency response teams and improve disaster planning.

Rabies Watch: Alabama health officials are urging residents to take precautions after a reported rise in rabies exposures nationwide, especially around pets and bats found indoors; people who are bitten or scratched should wash with soap and water and seek medical care. Disability Care Workforce: The Alabama Department of Mental Health is recognizing Direct Support Professional Recognition Week (Sept. 13–19), spotlighting the daily support DSPs provide for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Pediatric Trauma Research: UAB researchers report current blood pressure thresholds in children may miss hemodynamic instability tied to traumatic injuries, suggesting clinicians may need to watch higher levels for warning signs. Rural Cardiology Access: Huntsville Hospital Health System says it has invested more than $130 million in Marshall County since 2018 to support local care and address cardiology shortages. Cancer Support Event: The Cancer Wellness Foundation is preparing for Action 8’s “Tickled Pink” on Oct. 3 in Montgomery, with free mammogram access via a mobile unit and services for qualifying cancer patients across 37 Alabama counties. Home Health Quality: Alabama Department of Public Health Home Care earned a 2025 SHPBest Superior Performer Patient Experience Award based on top-tier patient satisfaction survey results. Health Coverage Costs: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama reported $13.1 billion in payments to Alabama hospitals, physicians, and pharmacies in 2025, with pharmacy payments rising sharply year over year. Veteran Homelessness Funding: The VA awarded more than $13 million in federal grants to Alabama organizations to help homeless veterans or those at risk of homelessness in FY2027.

Obamacare Refunds: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Alabama, will get $500 refunds tied to alleged federal Obamacare “user fee” overcharges. Workplace Heat Safety: A North Alabama-focused explainer warns that extreme heat can quickly become a medical emergency and outlines what Alabama workers may need to show for heat-related claims. Pediatric Trauma Care: UAB researchers report that common emergency blood pressure and heart-rate cutoffs for children may not fit traumatic injuries, urging clinicians to rethink how “instability” is recognized. Local Health Care Stability: Jackson Hospital in Montgomery says it has emerged from Chapter 11, citing support from local leaders and access to promised state funds. Cancer Vaccine Misinformation: Coverage highlights how misinformation and hesitancy could blunt the impact of new cancer vaccines. Alabama Flu Shots: The University of Alabama is offering free flu shots to students and staff through November, including updated vaccine coverage for the 2026/2027 season. Medical Cannabis Expansion: Alabama’s third medical cannabis dispensary opened in Athens (Limestone County), with more locations expected soon. Heat Wave Forecast: West Alabama faces hot, humid conditions with heat index values around 100–104°F and limited rain chances. Hospital Quality Recognition: Marshall Medical Centers touts a Forbes “Top Hospitals 2026” spot, noting it’s one of a small number of Alabama hospitals recognized. Food Safety Tip: An Alabama dietitian shares guidance on reheating steak safely to avoid dry, rubbery results. Animal Methane Tech: A new wearable “rubber sock” device for cattle aims to measure methane emissions in real time via a smartphone app.

Trauma Care Research: A UAB-led study says emergency blood pressure and heart-rate cutoffs used for kids may not fit traumatic injuries, based on data from 233,000 injured children ages 1–15, urging clinicians to rethink how they spot hemodynamic instability. Public Health & Vaccines: Pennsylvania is leading U.S. measles cases this year, with 693 reported as of Monday and hundreds hospitalized, highlighting ongoing need for vaccination and outbreak readiness. GLP-1 Safety Watch: A new review warns the link between GLP-1 drugs and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is still mixed, but calls for “ongoing vigilance” for patients with any vision-loss symptoms. School Health & Learning Loss: A new GAO report finds facility problems forced 1 in 5 districts to cancel classes in 2024–25, costing about 3.5 million days of learning. Local Alabama Health Access: Tuscaloosa County Schools is hiring and training bus drivers with free CDL training and benefits, aiming to keep students moving safely. Rabies Prevention: USDA plans to airdrop millions of rabies vaccine baits over Georgia, Alabama, and nearby states to build a wildlife vaccine barrier. Medicaid Policy: A political op-ed says Alabama could gain $1.24B in Medicaid funds under a federal law while other states lose money, but warns hospital impacts if cuts hit ER care. Nutrition Tips: An Alabama dietitian shares ways to reheat steak without drying it out, emphasizing safe timing and methods like sous vide.

Health Policy: The White House says nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Alabama, will get $500 refunds tied to Obamacare “user fees” that it says were overcharged by the Biden administration. Rural Care: Aderholt and HRSA highlighted new investments for Lakeland Community Hospital in Winston County, including $490,800 for telehealth tech and a non-emergency transportation program. Clinical Research: Pasithea Therapeutics will present initial Phase 1/1b PAS-004 data for adults with NF1-associated neurofibromas at the 2026 European Neurofibromatosis Conference, with a UAB presenter. Cancer Care Access: Radiation Business Solutions will meet potential partners for Anoma Cancer Collective, a nonprofit aimed at strengthening community cancer centers, including in Alabama. Community Health & Support: Tuscaloosa police reported eight people injured in a block-party shooting; authorities say victims were stable after medical aid. Safety & Wellness Tech: Americase and HazMat Safety Consulting will discuss lithium battery safety and compliance at a LithiumSAFE workshop in Tuscaloosa. Mental Health Tech: OpenAI’s ChatGPT “Trusted Contact” feature for people in crisis is getting attention as experts stress human connection.