AGP Executive Report

Cyclospora & lettuce-linked illness: CDC says the cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, with Arkansas among the newly added. Nationwide totals now include 10,468 lab-confirmed cases and 517 hospitalizations (CDC update through Aug. 3). Salmonella from jalapeños: Health officials report a separate multistate salmonella outbreak linked to fresh jalapeños has sickened 300+ people across 27 states, with at least 36 hospitalizations; Chipotle and Qdoba removed the implicated peppers. Salmonella egg recall: A major egg recall is underway after more than 19 million eggs were linked to salmonella across 17 states; FDA reports 98 illnesses and 26 hospitalizations. Arkansas Medicaid coverage: Arkansas asked CMS for a two-year reprieve to keep its hybrid Medicaid expansion (ARHOME) running through 2028 after federal denial of renewal. Food assistance policy: A U.S. Senate farm bill stalled in committee over SNAP cost-sharing rules, with Arkansas Sen. John Boozman proposing a one-year compromise. Workforce & training: NYITCOM at A-State’s SHARE program is giving high school students hands-on medicine and research experience, and Ozarka College celebrated its 2026 surgical technology graduates. Air quality alert: A Code Orange ozone advisory was issued for the Memphis metro area, including Crittenden County, Arkansas.

Food Safety Watch: The CDC says the Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, with Arkansas among the latest additions; cases are now in the thousands nationwide and officials warn the real number of illnesses is likely higher because symptoms can take weeks to show up. Local Health Impact: Arkansas’s confirmed cyclosporiasis count has climbed to 205, with Northwest Arkansas counties driving most reports. Another Outbreak, Another Menu Change: A separate Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled jalapeños has sickened 345 people across 27 states; Chipotle and Qdoba removed jalapeños after the CDC traced the source to peppers distributed by Coast Citrus Distributors. Medicaid Coverage Pressure: A KFF Health News report highlights how Medicaid work rules can leave people without stable housing struggling to keep coverage—raising concerns for access to care and addiction treatment. Arkansas Care Innovation: CARTI Cancer Center Little Rock is using RenovoCath for the first commercial clinical use in sarcoma, delivering chemotherapy locally to help reduce toxicity. Community Health & Wellness: A Jonesboro dispensary ranked among the top five in Arkansas for July medical marijuana sales, reflecting continued growth in patient cards statewide.

Foodborne Outbreak (Cyclospora): The CDC says the lettuce-linked cyclosporiasis outbreak is now tied to 15 states, adding Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina to the earlier list. Federal officials report 6,358 illnesses and two deaths (both in Michigan), with investigators still sorting out who was exposed as the recall works through the system. Foodborne Outbreak (Salmonella): A separate jalapeño-linked salmonella outbreak tied to restaurants including Chipotle and Qdoba has reached 27 states, with 345 sick and 36 hospitalizations; both chains removed jalapeños while the investigation continues. Local Health & Safety: Arkansas reported 205 cyclosporiasis cases statewide, with Benton County leading; the ADH says its investigation is ongoing for any additional sources beyond the multistate lettuce outbreak. UAMS Care Expansion: UAMS announced expanded pelvic floor disorder care options across Arkansas. Medicaid Policy: A federal judge declined to pause the rule tightening how some Medicaid enrollees can be excused from work requirements on medical grounds, moving documentation changes toward 2027. Community Health: The Community Blood Center of the Ozarks reported summer donations down 20% in Fayetteville, with O-negative and O-positive especially needed. Animal Health Alert: UAPB extension warns Arkansas sheep and goat producers to treat the newly confirmed New World screwworm as an active summer risk.

Foodborne illness alert: The CDC says the massive cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to Mexican iceberg lettuce is now tied to 15 states, including Arkansas, as case counts climb and health officials warn the real total may be higher. Local health update: Arkansas reported 173 cases as of Monday, with Benton County leading. Outbreak source: Investigators continue to focus on shredded lettuce distributed through retailers and restaurants, including Taco Bell and Taylor Farms. Clinical impact: The CDC reports two deaths in Michigan so far, and symptoms can include prolonged watery diarrhea and fatigue. Medicaid coverage risk: Arkansas providers are alarmed after the federal government denied renewal of the ARHOME Medicaid expansion waiver, leaving more than 200,000 people facing uncertainty as the current waiver ends Dec. 31. Behavioral health expansion: Unity Health opened a new Residential Adolescent Recovery & Wellness Program for 24 Medicaid children, aiming to address substance use treatment while keeping students on track in school. Nursing recognition: Atrium Health Floyd earned national nursing honors, highlighting what a strong care environment can mean for patient safety and staffing.

Maternal care access: Arkansas hospitals offering labor and delivery dropped to 30 after National Park Medical Center in Hot Springs closed its unit, with ACHI noting women in only 22 of 75 counties can get services locally and that staffing and finances have driven multiple closures since 2019. Foodborne illness watch: Arkansas reported 173 lab-confirmed cyclosporiasis cases as the multistate outbreak expands; health officials say most cases are in northwest Arkansas and the CDC has reportedly widened the outbreak to 15 states. Nursing home fraud crackdown: Attorney General Tim Griffin announced the arrest of Carlisle business manager Traci Wagner on 28 counts of exploitation of an impaired or endangered adult tied to alleged check-cashing from residents’ accounts at a Lonoke nursing home. Public health affordability: A WalletHub study ranked New York among the worst for health care affordability, underscoring how cost can outweigh access and outcomes—an angle that resonates as Arkansans watch Medicaid and nutrition policy shifts. Medicaid policy: U.S. Sen. John Boozman said SNAP farm bill talks include a one-year delay to state cost-sharing requirements, aiming to give states time to reduce error rates.

Medicaid shake-up in Arkansas: Arkansas providers are alarmed after the Trump administration rejected the state’s request to renew its ARHOME Medicaid expansion, which covers more than 200,000 people; hospitals warn the loss of payment source could worsen uncompensated care, especially in rural areas, as the waiver ends Dec. 31 and a short-term extension is being discussed. Medicaid fraud push: Arkansas AG Jackley joined a coalition urging Congress to pass the STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act, expanding states’ ability to investigate and prosecute beneficiary fraud. Cyclospora surge: The Arkansas Department of Health reported cyclosporiasis cases rising to 173 as of Monday, with Benton County driving much of the increase; officials say the northwest concentration may reflect testing and reporting differences while the investigation continues. Maternal health spotlight: An ACLU report highlights severe maternal care barriers in Alabama, including rural access gaps, transportation delays, and inadequate postpartum support. Local care access: VEG ER for Pets opened a 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital in Rogers, the first Arkansas location for the company. Food safety recall: The FDA posted a Salmonella recall for a Walmart-exclusive BetterGoods pistachio nut butter lot sold in 19 states.

Medicaid Coverage Shake-Up: CMS verbally denied Arkansas’ request to renew ARHOME, a hybrid Medicaid program that buys private insurance for about 200,000 low-income adults; DHS is seeking an extension until the legislature reconvenes in January. Cancer Care Investment: UAMS will spend $25 million to buy the state’s only proton center, avoiding an anticipated shutdown and keeping treatment going. Southeast Arkansas Access: UAMS and Jefferson Regional announced a new partnership/affiliation to expand specialized resources and workforce support across the region. Child Nutrition Funding: USDA awarded Arkansas $3.376 million for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program for K–6 students, with applications due Aug. 28. Food Safety at the Local Level: A Lawrence County food pantry says it tracks recalls so families can be warned if recalled items were distributed. Public Health & Policy: AG Hanaway backed the “STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act” to let states pursue beneficiary/recipient fraud. Community Health Support: Bilingual doulas are expanding support for Hispanic mothers in Northwest Arkansas. Violence Update: Arkansas State Police are investigating a Cotton Plant shooting that left one dead and two injured.

UAMS expands southeast Arkansas care: The University of Arkansas Board of Trustees approved a plan for UAMS to lease and operate Encore Medical Center in Bryant, adding a 53-bed hospital to the UAMS Health system and extending specialized services into Saline County. UAMS partnership in Pine Bluff: UAMS also announced a new partnership with Jefferson Regional Medical Center to expand access to specialized clinical resources and technologies across southeast Arkansas. Medicaid policy pressure: Arkansas DHS Secretary Janet Mann discussed Medicaid changes and what comes next, including expectations that ARHome enrollment could drop as work requirements take effect. Food safety watch: FDA updated a peaches recall linked to potential Listeria contamination, saying the recall is now terminated. Public health and safety: National athletic trainers and high school sports groups urged heat-safety changes for football linemen after recent heat-related hospitalizations, while Arkansas restaurant inspection reports flagged issues like raw meat stored above ready-to-eat foods. Health access for people with disabilities: Advocates warned that managed care pay rates and federal shifts could leave Arkansans with severe disabilities waiting longer for supportive living services.

Maternal Health Watch: A CDC study found gestational hypertension rose in every state from 2016 to 2024, with Arkansas among the biggest jumpers—highlighting a growing pregnancy risk tied to later heart and organ problems. Hospital Tech Upgrade: Baptist Health Medical Center–El Dorado is rolling out a faster, more comfortable Philips MR 5300 MRI, aiming to reduce scan time and ease claustrophobia for patients. Public Health Alerts: Arkansas DEQ issued a harmful algal bloom advisory for Lake June in Stamps, urging residents to avoid contact and watch for symptoms in people and pets. Food Safety: A federal egg recall tied to drug-resistant Salmonella continues, with FDA warning households to check carton codes and sell-by dates. Community Care Access: Airmen from the 927th ARW supported the Buffalo River Wellness mission, delivering no-cost medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and school physical services in Marshall. Training & Prevention: National athletic groups are urging heat-safety changes for football linemen after recent hospitalizations, emphasizing prevention over punishment drills. Medical Education: NYITCOM at Arkansas State held its White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2030, adding 121 future physicians, including 26 from Arkansas.

Maternal Health Watch: A CDC study finds gestational hypertension rates rose in every state from 2016 to 2024, with Arkansas among the biggest jumpers—highlighting ongoing risks for mothers and babies. Local Hospital Upgrade: Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado is rolling out a new Philips MR 5300 MRI, aiming to cut scan times and ease patient discomfort. Public Health + Environment: Lake June in Stamps is under a harmful algal bloom advisory; officials urge residents to avoid contact, keep pets away, and watch for symptoms like rash, nausea, and eye irritation. Medical Training in Arkansas: NYITCOM at Arkansas State held its White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2030, welcoming 121 future doctors, including 26 from Arkansas. Tick-Borne Disease Alert: New reporting flags rising Powassan virus concerns and stresses tick checks and prevention, especially for kids after outdoor activities. Nutrition Assistance: Arkansas’s SNAP August 2026 benefit schedule is listed, with payments running Aug. 4–13. Leadership in Public Health: UAMS named Wendy N. Nembhard as dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, effective Sept. 1.

Medical Training in Arkansas: NYITCOM at Arkansas State welcomed the Class of 2030 during its White Coat Ceremony in Jonesboro, coating 121 future doctors (26 from Arkansas) and highlighting plans to help address the physician shortage in the Delta and beyond. UAMS Leadership: UAMS named Wendy N. Nembhard, Ph.D., MPH, as dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, effective Sept. 1, succeeding Mark Williams. Medicaid Dollars in Motion: New data show Medicaid billing spikes in Arkansas localities—De Queen’s “Procedures/Professional Services” up 313.8% in 2024 and Russellville’s non-oral drug administration category up 27%—offering a snapshot of where public health spending is flowing. Access & Coverage Pressure: A national report says Obamacare marketplace enrollment fell in most states after enhanced federal subsidies expired, with New Mexico the exception. Public Health Risk Watch: Experts warn of rare Bourbon virus after a first New York case, noting no vaccine and urging tick-prevention steps. Community Health & Safety: Arkansas families can use the Aug. 1–2 sales tax holiday for back-to-school basics, including diapers, while a separate crash report notes a North Little Rock man seriously injured in a rollover near Ellendale and facing a DUI charge.

UAMS Leadership: UAMS named Wendy N. Nembhard as the next dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, effective Sept. 1, tapping an epidemiologist and long-time UAMS leader to steer the college’s next chapter. Maternal Health: UAMS rolled out a new Advancing Doulas and Perinatal Teams Toolkit to help hospitals integrate doulas into maternal care; Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas is piloting it and reports a jump in staff understanding of doulas’ role. Medicaid Uncertainty in Arkansas: CMS rejected Arkansas’ request to renew its hybrid Medicaid expansion (ARHOME), raising concerns for more than 200,000 low-income residents as the current waiver ends Dec. 31. Local Medicaid Spending Signals: New federal spending data show Medicaid payments rising in De Queen (Procedures/Professional Services up 313.8% in 2024) and Russellville (non-oral drug administrations up 27% to $42,794 in 2024). Nursing Education Pipeline: Black River Technical College students completed pediatric nursing clinical rotations at Arkansas Children’s Hospital through an LPN-to-RN transitional pathway. Public Health & Safety: Arkansas is included in a federal emergency order to reduce blackout risk during extreme heat, with the Southwest Power Pool allowed to dispatch backup generation if needed.

Medicaid Uncertainty: The Trump administration rejected Arkansas’ request to renew its hybrid Medicaid expansion (ARHOME), which ends Dec. 31, leaving coverage for 200,000+ low-income Arkansans in limbo while officials discuss a possible temporary extension. Maternal Care Innovation: UAMS launched a toolkit to help hospitals integrate doulas into perinatal teams; Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas is piloting it and reports a 47% jump in staff understanding of doula roles. Nursing Training in Action: Black River Technical College LPN-to-RN students completed pediatric clinical rotations at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, including exposure to specialties and the Angel One helicopter program. Mental Health Support: Black River Technical College staff trained in Mental Health First Aid to better spot warning signs and connect people to local resources. Blood Supply Push: LifeShare is urging Type O donors in East Texas and South Arkansas to donate amid a national blood crisis, with a $25 gift card offer for eligible donors. Heat Safety Reminder: Extreme heat continues to drive health risks, with reports of two heat-related deaths in Greenwood, Mississippi. Medicaid Fraud Case: AG Tim Griffin announced a North Little Rock woman was convicted for billing Medicaid for speech therapy services never provided.

UAMS Proton Center Deal: UAMS announced it will purchase the Proton Center of Arkansas, avoiding an anticipated shutdown and keeping cancer proton therapy access in the state. Food Access in Pine Bluff: A mobile grocery market returned to the Pine Bluff/Jefferson County Main Library, partnering with local groups to fight food deserts with free fresh produce and staples. NIH Grant for Heart Research: NYITCOM at A-State’s Vishwa Rajagopalan received a $573,750 NIH R15 grant to study how thyroid dysfunction affects cardiovascular disease, including RNA-based therapies. Counseling Compact Expands Mental Health Access: Arkansas joined the Counseling Compact, letting licensed professional counselors practice across state lines via in-person or telehealth. Public Health & Safety: Arkansas Department of Health food inspections in Pulaski County flagged issues like expired yogurt, invalid food permits, and sanitation problems; separate coverage also notes required water system flushing in Liberty’s service areas. Clinical Care Watch: A national survey found wide variation in how clinicians test and treat C. diff, underscoring gaps in guideline use.

Cancer Care Update: UAMS says it will buy the financially troubled Proton Center of Arkansas for about $25M, taking over operations Aug. 1 so Arkansans can keep getting proton therapy instead of facing an anticipated shutdown. Veterans Health: An A-State professor is using a concussion-focused Global Well-being Index to help military veterans spot lingering depression and anxiety symptoms. Pregnancy & Heat Safety: UAMS is recruiting pregnant Arkansans for a virtual study on heat-related risks during pregnancy, offering up to $225 in gift cards. Maternal Support Funding: Arkansas funded more than three dozen pregnancy resource centers in FY2026 and lawmakers approved an additional $3.5M for FY2027. Local Health Policy: Arkansas suspends enforcement of a law limiting which pharmacies can sell medications. Community Health Access: ArchWell Health opened a new clinic in Jacksonville, expanding primary care for underserved Medicare Advantage patients. Research & Grants: NYITCOM at A-State received an NIH R15 grant to study how thyroid dysfunction affects cardiovascular disease.

Arkansas Pharmacy Access: The Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy voted Tuesday to stop enforcing a 2025 law that would have limited drugmakers’ ability to restrict which pharmacies can buy their medications, after a federal judge ruled the measure unconstitutional—setting up more fallout in ongoing PBM and pharmacy access fights. Arkansas Health & Prevention: Forrest City is hosting a free Community Health & Wellness Fair Aug. 6 (2–6 p.m.) with dozens of screenings and partners, including a lung cancer screening van and plans for mobile mammography, plus nutrition help through local programs. Food Safety: A salmonella outbreak tied to recalled shell eggs has sickened 98 people across 17 states, with Arkansas stores among those that received the eggs; officials urge people to check refrigerators and discard or return recalled products. Local Health Funding: Jackson, Ark., received a $25,000 No Kid Hungry grant to expand economic mobility coaching that connects families to food, health care, and support services. Health Risk in Arkansas: A CDC study found Arkansas has the highest alpha-gal syndrome antibody levels in the U.S., linking lone star tick exposure to a potentially life-threatening meat allergy. Care Access & Policy: A-State is set to join a rural health research innovation cluster, while national coverage highlights how Medicaid work rules and exemptions can confuse chronically ill patients.