AGP Executive Report

State Rankings: U.S. News & World Report again put Utah at No. 1 overall, but Nebraska landed near the top at No. 5 in the 2026 Best States list, with strong marks for infrastructure and natural environment while healthcare lagged (Nebraska ranked 34th for healthcare). Local Access to Care: Results, a Norfolk-based clinic focused on medically guided weight loss and hormone health, opened a satellite site in Neligh to bring services closer to rural northeast Nebraska. Health Coverage & Policy: A new report says millions of Americans have lost healthcare coverage, but experts argue much of the drop is tied to factors like expiring ACA subsidies and other policy changes rather than one single bill. Youth Facility Oversight: Nebraska DHHS says outside evaluations show safety and operational improvements at Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Centers, including full compliance scores at YRTC-Kearney in a recent accreditation audit. Blood Supply Alert: LifeServe Blood Center is urging eligible donors to give now as shortages tighten, with some blood types at only a 1–3 day supply. Cancer Treatment in Nebraska: Lincoln’s April Sampson Cancer Center is offering investigational daraxonrasib for eligible adults with previously treated metastatic pancreatic cancer through an expanded-access program.

Rural Health Funding: Nebraska posted new Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) grant opportunities, including over $2.2M for school kitchen modernization and support for Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals to upgrade infrastructure, technology and equipment. Mental Health Access: Nebraska marked the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s 4th anniversary, noting the state 988 call center handled more than 39,000 contacts in FY25 and that most calls avoided mobile crisis or ER activations. Foodborne Illness Watch: Douglas County Health reported cyclospora cases rising to 45 confirmed, as federal investigators broadened a multistate outbreak probe; Nebraska is still not officially listed as part of it. Emergency Care Recognition: CHI Health Good Samaritan’s Dr. Kenton L. Shaffer Emergency Care Center earned the Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award, one of only two Nebraska hospitals recognized this year. Care Disruption for Kids: A Ralston family says Children’s Nebraska is ending a private duty nursing program for their child with spinal muscular atrophy on Oct. 1, threatening school-year coverage. Community Health & Safety: Omaha police reported a woman taken to hospital after being hit by a car near UNMC; injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Local Health Workforce: Leiker Smiles opened a second Hays location and is accepting new patients for general dentistry services.

Cyclospora Update (Nebraska): Douglas County Health says confirmed Cyclospora cases have jumped to 45, up from 27 a week ago, as federal investigators expand a multistate probe tied to shredded iceberg lettuce. Hospital Recognition (Nebraska): CHI Health Good Samaritan’s Dr. Kenton L. Shaffer Emergency Care Center received the Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award, one of only two Nebraska facilities honored this year. Youth Safety Oversight (Kearney): Nebraska Child Welfare’s Office of Inspector General released findings on sexual-abuse allegations at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, citing 44 allegations involving 19 staff and calling for stronger investigation practices. Medicaid Policy Fight (National): A legal showdown over federal Medicaid work requirements is set to play out in court, with arguments focused on who qualifies as “medically frail” and can keep coverage. State Health Rankings (Nebraska): WalletHub ranked Nebraska 10th for healthcare overall, highlighting strong access but lower marks on cost and outcomes. Cancer Policy (Iowa): Iowa gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand says he’d raise taxes on tobacco and nicotine and boost pediatric cancer research, while warning it needs GOP support.

State Rankings: Utah is again No. 1 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best States, with Minnesota at No. 3 and Nebraska landing at No. 5 overall—highlighting strong infrastructure and fiscal stability alongside healthcare as part of the 71-metric scorecard. Health Tech: A University of Nebraska–Lincoln engineer’s wearable “Axis Patch” aims to use continuous gait data as an early warning tool for diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, with Omaha-based CQuence Health backing clinical progress. Cancer Care: Nebraska Medicine is making an experimental pancreatic cancer drug, daraxonrasib, available after reports of longer survival in a clinical trial—bringing new hope to patients with RAS-driven tumors. Mental Health & Public Safety: An Omaha court ruling tied to the insanity defense in the shooting of an Omaha police officer is renewing calls for stronger oversight of Nebraska’s mental health system. Public Health Watch: The CDC warns West Nile tracking can lag, urging Nebraskans to rely on more current local updates during the active season. Community Health: CHI Health St. Francis in Grand Island honored RN Beth Deida with its Caring Kind Award for maternity-center training and patient-safety efforts. Heat Impacts: Extreme heat continues to strain health and daily life across the Plains, including livestock events like the Lincoln County Fair moving key activities indoors to protect animals and kids.

Medicaid Work Requirements: CMS says a new federal rule will require many 19–64 adults in Medicaid expansion states to complete 80 hours a month of work or qualifying activities, projecting millions to lose coverage starting soon. Maternal Health Support: Region 7’s Maternal Health ECHO session focused on tying community support to clinical care across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. Hospital Leadership: Northwestern Medical Center in St. Joseph, Missouri named Jonathan Billings its new CEO, promoting from interim CEO/COO. Heat Safety: UNMC emergency medicine professor Dr. Eric Ernest urged Nebraskans to prevent heat illness by hydrating, watching warning signs, and taking breaks. Blood Supply Crisis: The American Red Cross warned Iowa hospitals may face delays as a type O shortage hits crisis levels, with extreme heat and outbreaks cited. Autism Therapy Access: Florida families say Medicaid abruptly stopped covering ABA therapy, leaving children without services and parents scrambling. Local Care Recognition: CHI Health St. Francis honored maternity center clinical educator Beth Deida, RN, with a Caring Kind Award. Healthcare Rankings: WalletHub’s 2026 study lists Nebraska among the better states for healthcare, using cost, access and outcomes.

Heat Safety: A dangerous heat dome is keeping tens of millions in the central U.S. under extreme heat warnings, including western Nebraska, with high humidity and overnight lows that don’t cool off—raising the risk of heat illness for outdoor workers, kids, and people without reliable cooling. Foodborne Illness Watch: The FDA and CDC are widening a cyclospora investigation tied to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, with cases now reported across more states and ongoing questions about how many Nebraskans may be affected. Local Health & Community: AAA’s “E-Ride Ready” campaign rolls out safety guidance for families as e-bike and e-scooter injuries continue to rise, emphasizing helmet choice and safer riding rules. Public Health & Access: Medicaid reimbursements for routine care at Planned Parenthood clinics are set to resume where states allow it, after a nationwide one-year ban expired—potentially affecting screening and sexual health services. Nebraska Incident: Lincoln police report a motorcycle crash into a northeast home, sending the rider to a hospital. Caregiving Costs for Farmers: A Nebraska farming family says health insurance premiums have more than doubled this year, adding to already soaring farm expenses.

Heat Safety: A dangerous heat dome is pressing across the central U.S., with about 70 million people facing heat advisories and extreme heat warnings; western Nebraska is forecast near 108°F, and overnight lows won’t cool enough to help people recover. Wildfire Tragedy: Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, died from burn injuries after being trapped in a June 27 burnover while fighting the Knowles Fire near the Colorado-Utah border—his death marks the fourth fatality from the incident. Foodborne Illness Watch: The FDA and CDC are widening a multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to recalled iceberg lettuce, with cases now reported across more states and health officials urging people to avoid the implicated products. Local Health Access: A nationwide Medicaid ban on routine care at Planned Parenthood has expired, allowing clinics in states that opt in to resume Medicaid reimbursements for non-abortion services. Injury Prevention: AAA’s “E-Ride Ready” campaign is rolling out safety guidance for families as e-bike and e-scooter injuries involving young riders continue to rise. Community Health Data: Medicaid dental billing in Papillion jumped sharply in 2024, reflecting growing use of covered dental services. Medical Update: Nebraska comedian Larry the Cable Guy says he’s recovering after appendicitis and a hospital stay.

Extreme Heat Alert: A third “heat dome” is building over the weekend, with dangerously hot conditions expected to push temperatures above 100°F across the central U.S. and leave about 70 million people facing heat advisories; western Nebraska is under an extreme heat warning with forecasts near 108°F. Local Public Health: Lincoln-Lancaster County officials urged residents to prevent heat illness, stay hydrated, and use extended-hours cooling centers during the warning. Wildfire Tragedy: Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, died from burn injuries after being trapped in a burnover while fighting the Knowles Fire near the Colorado-Utah border; three other firefighters died at the scene. Cancer Research Support: The Carla Kilpatrick Memorial Bags Tournament in Lincoln raised funds for triple-negative breast cancer research at UNMC, adding a new kids division this year. Health Care in the News: Nebraska hospital efforts continue against pancreatic cancer, as new treatment options become available locally. Community Health & Safety: Mosquito surveillance updates include West Nile detection in Nebraska counties, reinforcing the need for bite prevention.

Cyclospora Update: The FDA and CDC widened their cyclosporiasis investigation tied to recalled iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, now reporting 1,947 infections across nine states, with Nebraska officials saying they’ve found no link to cases reported there this year. Medicaid Access: A nationwide Medicaid ban on routine care at Planned Parenthood expired, letting clinics again bill for non-abortion services in states that opt in. Extreme Heat Safety: A third “heat dome” is building across the central U.S., with about 70 million people facing heat advisories and western Nebraska forecast near 108°F—raising risks for heat illness. Wildfire Tragedy: Nathan Matthews, a Lincoln, Nebraska firefighter, became the fourth death tied to a June burnover while battling Colorado’s Knowles Fire near the Utah border. Local Health Spending: Medicaid dental billing in Papillion jumped 88.4% in 2024, reflecting rising use of covered dental services.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The FDA and CDC expanded a multistate cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce served at Taco Bell, now listing 1,947 reported infections across nine states, with at least 98 hospitalizations and no deaths. Nebraska Heat Safety: Nebraska’s Severe Weather Center issued Weather Alert Days for dangerous heat Saturday through Monday, with Lincoln/Lancaster County heat index values up to 109 and guidance for high-risk groups, cooling steps, and help lines. Blood Supply Watch: Nebraska Community Blood Bank marked its first anniversary at a second Omaha location while warning of ongoing summer blood shortages and urging more donations. Medicaid Work Requirements: A federal interim final rule sets how states will implement Medicaid work requirements starting in 2027, raising the stakes for outreach and eligibility systems. Local Health & Access: Lincoln released new income guidelines for free and reduced lunch, and Nebraska’s Department of Education outlined how families can apply for nutrition programs. Veterans Recognition: Nebraska honored 82 living Korean War veterans at a Memorial Stadium ceremony, part of a statewide recognition effort.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The FDA and CDC expanded their cyclosporiasis investigation tied to shredded iceberg lettuce from central Mexico, adding four states to bring the total to nine; 1,947 illnesses and at least 98 hospitalizations have been reported, with no deaths so far. SNAP Policy Shifts: New SNAP eligibility and purchase restrictions are reshaping grocery spending, with some states facing uncertainty after a federal court blocked certain waivers, while overall SNAP household counts and EBT spending have declined. Medicaid & Care Access: A Mostly Medicaid Ideas Workshop gathered 52 Medicaid leaders to focus on protecting vulnerable members during eligibility changes and avoiding people “falling through the cracks.” Patient Experience in Iowa: A new nationwide report ranks Iowa hospitals 9th for patient experience, scoring above the national average on communication, responsiveness, cleanliness, and discharge clarity. Nebraska Health Costs Snapshot: New BEA data shows Nebraska’s per-capita health care spending at $10,192 (ranked 19th). Public Health & Mosquitoes: West Nile has been detected in Hall County mosquitoes, adding to the state’s ongoing summer monitoring. Cancer Camp in Nebraska: Camp CoHoLo continues to give children with cancer and blood disorders a traditional camp experience while supporting their medical needs.

Medicaid & Work Requirements: CMS approved a temporary hardship exemption from Nebraska Medicaid work requirements for Dawson County expansion beneficiaries after high unemployment tied to the Tyson plant closure, with automatic exemptions for residents since Feb. 1, 2026. Mosquito-Borne Illness Watch: Douglas County Health Department found mosquitoes carrying West Nile and Jamestown Canyon viruses, while Hall County also detected West Nile in mosquito collections—health officials urge bite prevention and standing-water cleanup. Care Access & Oversight: An Omaha family says an interRAI assessment left their developmentally disabled son without 1-on-1 care, leading to missed medication, raising questions about DHHS funding tiers and supervision. Cancer Treatment in Nebraska: Nebraska Medicine made a new pancreatic cancer drug available that reports doubled survival time, adding another option for patients. Data Infrastructure in Health: Innovaccer’s CEO says the company’s push to fix hospital data plumbing helped it surpass $200M in annual recurring revenue, with work across major health systems. Public Health & Food Safety: The ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak continues to draw scrutiny of lettuce supply chains and recalls tied to Taylor Farms. Heat Safety: Lincoln and eastern Nebraska face dangerous heat and humidity this weekend, with heat-index readings potentially reaching 115 degrees. Nutrition Programs: Nebraska DHHS/education nutrition services announced income eligibility guidelines and meal application availability for free and reduced-price school meals.

Public Health Alert: Central District Health Department detected West Nile virus in mosquitoes collected in Hall County, urging Nebraskans to limit outdoor time at dawn and dusk and protect themselves from bites as peak transmission typically rises through summer. Heat Safety: Lincoln and eastern Nebraska are bracing for a dangerous weekend heat surge, with heat-index readings potentially reaching 115 degrees Sunday and Monday, and little overnight relief. Food & Water Safety: A Nebraska Extension piece highlights grazing standing corn as a drought-stressed feed option, with nitrate precautions and the need for clean water and careful herd management. Health Access: RefillGenie, a physician-founded service, says it now offers Spanish-language, text-based same-day prescription refill access across 49 states and D.C. Workforce & Care: New research from the Buffett Early Childhood Institute finds a $500 childcare retention bonus could help keep providers from leaving, but stresses ongoing gaps in behavioral support. Local Tech in Agriculture: UNL partnered with ALA Engineering to bring autonomous “smart feeding” to a University of Nebraska feedlot innovation center.

Pancreatic Cancer Breakthrough in Nebraska: Nebraska Medicine’s Fred and Pamela Buffett Cancer Center has started an expanded access program for daraxonrasib, an investigational pill for patients whose pancreatic cancer no longer responds to chemotherapy, with reported trial results showing survival roughly doubling (about 6.5 months vs. 13 months) and potential quality-of-life benefits. MS Care Gap: A new analysis of more than 42,000 multiple sclerosis deaths found death rates rising over 12 years and highlighted the growing role of high blood pressure, pointing to the need for earlier diagnosis and stronger management of other health conditions. Public Health Alert—Measles: The CDC reported 2,260 measles cases across 44 states as of July 16, warning that summer travel is driving new spread amid declining vaccination rates. Foodborne Illness Watch: Nebraska health officials continue tracking the cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to lettuce supplier Taylor Farms, with advisories and case counts rising in parts of the state. Local Health & Safety: Lancaster County schools received active shooter and tactical medical training, while Grand Island launched a Residential Knox Box Loaner Program to speed emergency access for seniors and people with medical or mobility barriers. Wellness in the Community: South Heartland Health Department logged more than 38,000 minutes in a fitness challenge within weeks.

Rural Access Worry: A new report highlights how rural hospital closures are pushing emergency care farther away, raising fears for heart attack, stroke, and childbirth outcomes. Medicaid & Reproductive Care: A temporary federal ban on Medicaid reimbursements for Planned Parenthood-type clinics has expired, restoring coverage for non-abortion services like cancer screenings, birth control, and STI testing—though states decide how to implement it. Food Safety Alert: Nebraska DHHS is reminding residents about routine food safety as cyclosporiasis cases rise nationally, with no confirmed links to the current outbreak reported in Nebraska so far. Local Emergency Readiness: Grand Island Fire Department launched a Residential Knox Box Loaner Program to speed entry for residents who may not be able to open the door during medical emergencies. Cancer Trial Access: NHO Revive says it will become Nebraska’s only site for a Johnson & Johnson Phase 3 prostate cancer trial, expanding options for eligible patients. Pregnancy Medication Caution: UNMC researchers review common pregnancy medications and warn they may disrupt cholesterol-related processes in fetal brain development, urging careful interpretation.

Behavioral Health Workforce: A new Psychiatric Services paper spotlights how Nebraska used $25.5 million in ARPA pandemic relief to build a behavioral health workforce model, funding 105 projects statewide, boosting rural telebehavioral health, paying about 390 graduate interns, and nearly doubling clinical supervision capacity. Food Safety Alert: Nebraska DHHS says cyclosporiasis cases remain low locally (49 since May) and urges people with symptoms lasting more than three days to contact a clinician, as the national outbreak tied to lettuce continues to expand. Drug Pricing Accountability: Nebraska Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced a $29.6 million multistate settlement with Glenmark over alleged generic drug price-fixing and reduced competition. Local Care Access: Lexington Regional Health Center added Dr. Rebecca Gill, a general surgeon focused on breast care, to expand continuity of specialized services closer to home. Public Health & Safety: Omaha’s proposed 2027 budget includes staffing and funding boosts for police and fire, aiming to reduce strain and callbacks. Mental Health Crisis Response: Scottsbluff police say a man in a mental health crisis ingested prescription medications after a standoff at WNCC and was taken to Regional West Medical Center for care.