AGP Executive Report

Veteran Mental Health Training: A new continuing education platform from Marine Corps veteran Garret Biss is expanding live, virtual training for providers working with veterans on mental health, addiction recovery, and resilience. Prison Health Aftercare: Alabama’s high incarceration rate is tied to lasting health harm, with advocates urging smoother Medicaid/Medicare enrollment so people leaving prison can access care right away. Community Reentry Support: A Hueytown organization is helping incarcerated fathers and families prepare for life after prison, highlighting the emotional toll of separation. Workplace Safety & Violence: Lawsuits describe the moments before an Alabama nurse was fatally shot in a hospital parking lot, raising questions about campus security. Food Safety Recall: Walmart is pulling Great Value Hawaiian Roll 4-packs in multiple states after an FDA-flagged issue tied to contamination on packaging surfaces. Women’s Health Spotlight: Melinda French Gates’ Pivotal is highlighting Tuscaloosa’s West Alabama Women’s Center as a model for community-based women’s healthcare and training. Men’s Health Policy Update: HHS is seeking label revisions for testosterone replacement therapies, aiming to better reflect current safety and benefit information. Alabama Invasive Species Effort: Alabama State Parks is launching a statewide restoration crew to remove invasives and restore native habitats across 21 parks. Local Health Funding: Rep. Terri Sewell secured $6.9 million for nine community projects in Alabama’s 7th District, including healthcare access upgrades.

Maternal Health Spotlight: Melinda French Gates is highlighting the West Alabama Women’s Center in Tuscaloosa as a model for women’s community healthcare, citing a Pivotal grant that helped the clinic expand and add mental health services. Public Health & Safety: Mountain Brook YMCA is urging families to prevent drownings by choosing bright/neon swimsuit colors and, above all, keeping “eyes on kids” in water. Community Health Funding: Rep. Terri Sewell secured about $6.9 million for nine projects in Alabama’s 7th District, including HRSA support for regional medical facility upgrades and public safety tech for Hoover. Local Environment for Wellness: Alabama State Parks is launching a statewide invasive species restoration crew to protect native habitats across 21 parks. Food & Health Systems: USM is joining NOAA to strengthen America’s seafood supply through aquaculture research aimed at safer, more sustainable production. Health Research Policy: HHS removed nearly one-fifth of sessions from an early childhood research conference agenda days before it began. Health-Related Crime: Montgomery police are investigating a shooting that left two dead and two injured.

Maternal Health Access: A new Doula Lab resource center in Belleville, Illinois is aiming to close maternal care gaps by offering community-based support for families who say they’re forced to travel hours for high-risk pregnancy needs. Child Safety: Pediatric emergency doctors warn drowning deaths among kids ages 1–4 rose sharply from 2019 to 2022, urging “layers of protection” beyond swim lessons, including barriers, life jackets, and a dedicated water watcher. Water Safety Tips: A YMCA in Mountain Brook highlights how bright swimsuit colors can help lifeguards and parents spot children faster, but stresses that constant supervision is the real lifesaver. Alabama Public Health Funding: New Medicaid spending snapshots show local growth in services—Guntersville dental claims up 25.5% (2024), Hoover dental up 90%, and Moody evaluation & management up 270.1%—signaling shifting care demand and provider activity. Community Health & Wellness: Alabama EMA urges residents to prepare for extreme heat as storms and flooding concerns build. Local Crime Impacting Health: Montgomery police are investigating a shooting that left two dead and two injured, underscoring how violence can quickly strain local emergency care.

Public Safety: A 21-year-old Alabama woman accused of planning a mass school shooting was ordered held without bail after the FBI flagged “concerning” Instagram messages tied to talk of attacking a school and taking their own lives. Child Health: Pediatric experts say drowning deaths among young children are rising, urging families to use layered protection like close supervision, life jackets, and four-sided pool fencing—not just swim lessons. Men’s Health Policy: The U.S. is seeking updates to testosterone therapy labels, including removing claims that safety and effectiveness aren’t established for age-related low testosterone, while still urging careful doctor evaluation. Medicaid Watch (Alabama): New local Medicaid spending snapshots show big swings in service categories—Haleyville’s Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare) jumped 152.4% in 2024, while dental and lab-related spending rose in multiple cities including Hoover, Trussville, Homewood, Fort Payne, and Gardendale.

IVF Policy Shift: Texas AG Ken Paxton says he supports in-vitro fertilization, breaking with his state GOP’s push to end IVF and commercial surrogacy—an issue that has already affected Alabama fertility care after a frozen-embryo ruling. Cancer Care Updates: ASCO experts break down new trial takeaways in renal cell carcinoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, and chronic myeloid leukemia, with emphasis on how toxicity and patient selection may shape real-world treatment. Food Safety in Alabama: Alabama restaurant inspections flagged temperature-control failures, improper storage, and missing sanitation equipment at multiple Jefferson County spots, including discarded spoiled produce and improperly chilled foods. Fish Safety: Alabama’s updated fish-eating guidance adds stricter consumption limits for certain species in local waters due to chemical buildup, including mercury-related warnings. Public Health + Jobs Event: ADPH plans a Montgomery Resource Fair & Job Fair focused on health, women’s wellness, and employment help. Wildlife + Health Concerns: In Madison, an HOA voted to euthanize 226 Canada geese, citing lake quality and public health worries, while residents argue for non-lethal options. Local Court Health Impact: A Decatur chiropractor’s attempted-murder conviction was upheld after pills allegedly filled with lead left his wife with long-term health problems.

Emergency Response & Public Safety: Montgomery Fire/Rescue Lt. Demetrius Gilmore is being recognized for saving a man during a YMCA cardiac arrest after he started CPR, directed staff to call 911 and get an AED, and helped deliver a shock before crews arrived. Healthcare Access & Workforce: Alabama Secretary of Workforce Greg Reed and Rep. Ben Robbins toured the EARTH Hub in Sylacauga, a rural training center designed to reduce barriers like childcare and transportation while building skills in manufacturing, healthcare, and more. Local Health Concerns: Inspectors in the Tennessee Valley ordered a hotel pool closed after finding “imminent health hazards,” including broken emergency equipment and unsafe conditions, while other venues were flagged for sanitation and food-handling problems. Community Health & Animals: An Edgewater HOA near Madison voted to euthanize 226 Canada geese, with residents raising concerns about public health and lake impacts versus animal welfare and legal permitting. Cancer Care & Coverage: A federal court dispute involving Jackson Hospital and Blue Cross Blue Shield Alabama continues, with medical staff warning about potential service losses for Central Alabama patients.

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.

Hospital Price Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals that they’re not posting required pricing info, with penalties that can reach $2 million a year for noncompliance—aimed at helping patients compare costs for tests and treatments. Alabama Healthcare Access Fight: A federal bankruptcy judge denied Jackson Hospital’s bid to force Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama to raise reimbursement rates, saying the hospital didn’t meet the legal standard for an injunction and that rewriting a contract would be against the public interest. Alzheimer’s Advocacy in Alabama: An Alabama doctor urged Congress to pass the bipartisan ASAP Act to let Medicare cover Alzheimer’s screening during routine visits, arguing it could help families get earlier answers. Workforce & Health Education Pipeline: Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences hit its enrollment goal ahead of its Aug. 13 opening, filling its inaugural class and completing key staffing milestones. Public Health & Vaccines: Delaware County, Pa. reported measles detected in wastewater samples and urged residents to ensure MMR vaccination is up to date. Emergency Preparedness: Alabama’s Department of Insurance urged residents to prepare for Tropical Storm Arthur, emphasizing flood safety steps like avoiding flooded roads and building emergency kits.

Alabama Medicaid Update: Starting July 1, pediatricians must add an ABA specialty to their Medicaid enrollment before autism-related diagnoses can qualify for Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy referrals, or those referrals will be denied. Local Health Care Spotlight: University Medical Center’s neurology and sleep medicine program is expanding, adding neurologists and a nurse practitioner to cover conditions like ALS, stroke care, headaches, and neuro diagnostics. Community Health & Wellness: Birmingham’s Office of Resilience and Sustainability wrapped up public meetings on its sustainability plan and is moving into implementation, including efforts aimed at making homes healthier and improving health, food, and thriving. Public Health Alerts: Alabama fish consumption advisories were updated for 2026, and Alabama EMA urged residents to prepare for extreme heat. Animal Health & Safety: First responders in Ladonia trained on handling venomous snakes, with instructors stressing that venomous bites are medical emergencies needing hospital antivenom care. Mental Health Research: A small study suggests probiotics added to standard antidepressant care may modestly ease depression and anxiety symptoms in adults 60+ with moderate depression. Animal Welfare Win: Wisconsin’s Ridglan Farms is closing, with 475 beagles moved to rescue placements instead of further research.

Price Transparency Crackdown: The Trump administration has warned more than 500 hospitals nationwide that they’re not posting basic pricing, with penalties up to $2 million a year for noncompliance—aimed at helping patients know costs for common care like blood work and imaging. Breast Cancer & Medicaid: A new study in JAMA Network Open finds women with breast cancer in Medicaid expansion states are less likely to die from the disease, though benefits weren’t equal for everyone. Alabama Kratom Enforcement: Alabama AG and ALEA launched Operation Southern Shield, seizing nearly 123,000 doses of illegal kratom products from retailers and wholesale warehouses. Public Health & Food Access: Alabama SUN Bucks is providing one-time summer grocery help—$120 per school-aged child—for eligible families to bridge the gap when school meals end. Care After Violence at DCH: The husband of a nurse killed outside DCH Regional Medical Center has filed a lawsuit against the hospital, its security contractor, and the alleged shooter. Heat Preparedness: Alabama EMA is urging residents to prepare for extreme heat as dangerous conditions build. UAB Research Translation: UAB was ranked among top biomedical research institutions for turning discoveries into real-world therapies and measurable health outcomes. Infant Mortality Update: New national data shows infant mortality hit a new low in 2024, but trends remain mixed.

Hospital Price Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals for not posting basic pricing, with penalties up to $2 million a year for noncompliance. Alabama Primary Care Access: Alabama A&M and Huntsville Hospital opened Physician Care North Huntsville, the first primary care clinic in North Huntsville for adults 18+ with screenings, immunizations, chronic care, and sick visits. Newborn Vitamin K Hesitancy: UAB pediatricians say more parents are refusing vitamin K shots; a JAMA review found refusals rose 77% from 2017 to 2024. Public Health Enforcement: Alabama seized about 123,000 illegal kratom doses in a statewide crackdown, citing safety and misuse concerns. Medical Cannabis Milestone: Alabama reported 100+ qualifying patients bought medical cannabis in the first days after the Montgomery dispensary opened. Local Safety & Health: A deputy-involved crash in Huntsville left one woman seriously injured and killed her passenger; separate Tuscaloosa County incidents damaged a fire pumper and sent a driver to UAB. Community Health Infrastructure: Franklin County Schools’ asbestos re-inspection found no violations.

Hospital Pricing Pressure: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals to post clearer price information or face penalties up to $2 million a year, aiming to help patients avoid surprise costs for tests and treatment. Alabama Health Funding: Rep. Robert Aderholt secured $35 million for Alabama hospitals and health centers in the FY27 Labor-HHS bill, including $22.1 million for rural facilities. Fish Safety Updates: The Alabama Department of Public Health released updated fish consumption advisories for 34 waterbodies, telling residents how many meals per week/month are considered safe by species. Local Care Expansion: Montgomery demolished the old Paterson Elementary School to build a new Premise Health Center for city employees and families. Kratom Crackdown: ALEA and the AG’s office launched Operation Southern Shield, seizing 64,000 bottles and warning that improperly labeled kratom products can cause opioid-like, highly addictive effects. Emergency Pharmacy Help: TRICARE beneficiaries in 101 Texas counties can get emergency prescription refills after severe storms. Workforce Health Tech: Auburn’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program held its first White Coat Ceremony, marking students’ move into clinical rotations. Public Health & Community: Madison County’s Juneteenth celebration set for June 19 includes health, education, and community events at the Robert “Bob” Harrison Wellness & Advocacy Center.

Hospital Cost Transparency: The Trump administration is warning more than 500 hospitals that they’re not posting clear pricing, with penalties that could reach $2 million a year for noncompliance. Water Safety Fight: Republican attorneys general, including Alabama’s, are urging the EPA to treat the abortion pill mifepristone as a water contaminant, while the EPA also faces pushback over proposed PFAS drinking-water rollbacks tied to cancer risk. Alabama Health Policy: A House domestic spending bill would send about $35 million to Alabama hospitals and health centers, even as it cuts broader health funding. Public Health & Safety: Alabama’s DCH Regional Medical Center held a personal safety seminar after a nurse was killed in a parking lot shooting, and a charter bus stabbing in Bessemer left one dead and three injured. Research & Care: UAB researchers presented early results for arlo-cel CAR T therapy in multiple myeloma, showing high response rates. Community Health: United Way of Northwest Alabama is narrowing grant allocations to protect long-term impact. Animal Welfare: A Wisconsin beagle research facility is closing, with 475 dogs transferred to rescue groups in Florida and Alabama.

Hospital Price Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals that they’re not posting required pricing info, with penalties up to $2 million annually for noncompliance. Access to Imaging in Alabama: Curaechoice partnered with Capitol Imaging Services to expand no-cost diagnostic imaging access at more than 50 freestanding centers across Alabama and other states. Mental Health Drug Setback: Neumora Therapeutics is discontinuing navacaprant for major depressive disorder after Phase 3 KOASTAL-2 and KOASTAL-3 failed to hit key endpoints, and plans to lay off 35% of staff. Men’s Health Push: June is Men’s Health Month, spotlighting the need for earlier screenings and better mental and physical health habits. Cardiovascular Check-Up Tip: A new explainer says pulse pressure—hidden inside a standard blood pressure reading—can signal artery stiffness and higher heart/stroke risk. Rural Care Contract Shock (Texas): A Texas hospital network says it’s ending all UnitedHealthcare contracts over unsustainable reimbursement rates, affecting rural communities. Animal Welfare & Health: Big Dog Ranch Rescue says it has secured the transfer of 475 beagles from Ridglan Farms to receive medical care and be readied for adoption. Reproductive Health & Water Debate: Republican AGs, including Alabama’s, urged the EPA to classify mifepristone as a water contaminant, despite experts saying there’s no proof of harm.

Maternal Health in Alabama: Women’s health experts say Alabama’s maternal system is failing—especially Black mothers—citing a lack of investment and limited access to obstetric care, midwifery, and rural support. Health Access & Rural Care: State leaders met on how to use Alabama’s Rural Health Transformation Program funds, with ideas ranging from maternal/fetal health and EMS to mental health, aiming to strengthen existing services rather than reopen closed rural hospitals. Infant Formula Recall: Parents are being urged to stop using recalled Nara Organics powdered infant formula due to a potential risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination; the company says it’s recalling all affected lots after reported infant botulism cases. Medical Cannabis Launch: Alabama’s first dispensary reported early demand, with more than 100 qualifying patients purchasing products since opening. Healthcare Costs & Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals nationwide for not posting required pricing information, with penalties up to $2 million annually for noncompliance. Coastal Health & Water Quality: Gov. Kay Ivey announced $87 million for Alabama coastal restoration, including beach resilience, Upper Mobile Bay wetlands, and long-term water quality upgrades. Public Health Education: Auburn Extension highlighted mosquito risks and prevention ahead of National Mosquito Control Awareness Week. Food Safety Watch: A report raised concerns about pesticide residues on some Driscoll’s strawberries, though levels were said to be within federal limits. Heat Safety: Extreme heat advisories and cooling-center guidance were issued in the region as heat index values climbed near 110 degrees.

Hospital Price Transparency: The Trump administration warned more than 500 hospitals nationwide that they’re not posting required pricing info, with penalties up to $2 million annually for noncompliance—an issue that could hit Alabama patients and providers as enforcement ramps up. Medication in Waterways: Republican attorneys general, including Alabama’s, urged the EPA to classify the abortion pill mifepristone as a water contaminant, despite experts saying there’s no clear harm from medication abortion in wastewater. Rural Health Funding: Alabama leaders and community partners met in Montgomery on how to use $203 million from the Rural Health Transformation Program to strengthen existing services like maternal/fetal care, EMS, and mental health. Public Health & Safety: Auburn highlighted mosquito-borne disease risks ahead of National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, while Alabama also saw a high-risk FDA recall for Alfredo sauce tied to possible salmonella contamination. Care Access: Orbis Flying Eye Hospital is training clinicians in Peru to expand eye care, reflecting ongoing global workforce efforts. Local Health Events: A free brain health fair is set for June 26 in Selma, offering memory, cognitive and sleep checks.