AGP Executive Report

Women’s Health Access: A new New Hampshire Insurance Department study says women are delaying care due to provider shortages, affordability problems, and confusion about what insurance covers—turning “one decision” into long waits. Maternal Care Closures: A New Hampshire report finds birth centers and hospital labor-and-delivery units have been closing since 2000, with researchers pointing to pressures that make safe access harder for families. Food Safety: The FDA is investigating multiple outbreaks, with cyclosporiasis tied to iceberg lettuce and salmonella tied to jalapeños dominating headlines; CDC updates show the lettuce-linked outbreak has spread widely, including New Hampshire. Public Health Leadership: The U.S. Senate confirmed Erica Schwartz as CDC director, a move that could affect vaccine guidance that drives coverage rules. Local Health & Safety: Keene is set to name Deputy Fire Chief Gregory Seymour as its next fire chief, while a Keene infant case has led to second-degree assault charges against the child’s mother. Policy Watch: EPA actions would let New Hampshire formally end its vehicle inspection mandate, and a study flags SNAP-related changes that may reduce school lunch assistance enrollment.

Cyclospora Outbreak: The CDC says the lettuce-linked cyclosporiasis outbreak now involves 15 states, adding Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina; nationwide totals reported through early August include 10,468 lab-confirmed cases and 517 hospitalizations, with Michigan reporting the first deaths. Food Safety & Local Impact: Sysco says it has stopped buying iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, shifting supply after the outbreak’s link to recalled Mexican lettuce. Blood Supply Crisis: The American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis as donations hit a four-year summer low, with Type O distribution being limited to hospitals. Access to Care: Dartmouth Health filed plans for a 36,000-square-foot expansion in Concord to meet growing Southern NH needs, while Wentworth-Douglass broke ground on a new Rochester freestanding 24/7 emergency department opening in fall 2027. Policy Watch: EPA has preliminarily supported New Hampshire’s move to end mandatory vehicle inspections/emissions testing, clearing a federal path as public comment begins.

Food Safety Update: The cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce has expanded to 15 states, with CDC reporting more than 10,000 lab-confirmed cases and states warning the true total is higher; Michigan and Ohio remain hardest hit, and New Hampshire is now on the list. Local Guidance Shift: Michigan lifted its broad “avoid bagged salad mixes” recommendation as new cases and diarrhea-related ER visits decline, while still urging people to avoid recalled lettuce. Public Health Watch: Investigators say the outbreak is hard to track because symptoms can take weeks to show up, and they’re continuing to probe beyond lettuce as cases rise. Medicaid Oversight: New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella joined a bipartisan push urging Congress to expand states’ authority to investigate Medicaid fraud, including beneficiary/recipient fraud. Home Care Protections: NH DHHS is requiring managed care organizations to give written notice before changing home care plans for medically complex children, after families saw hours reduced under the Katie Beckett program. Air Quality Policy: EPA preliminarily supports New Hampshire’s plan to end mandatory vehicle inspection and emissions testing, aligning federal requirements with state law.

Cyclospora Outbreak Update (NH): Federal health officials say the iceberg lettuce–linked cyclospora outbreak now involves 15 states, with 6,358 confirmed cases and 278 hospitalizations; New Hampshire was added among the latest states (Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina). Investigators stress the count is rising partly because it can take weeks for symptoms and for cases to be confirmed, even after Taylor Farms’ recall. Measles Safety Reminder: As measles cases hit a 35-year high, NH pediatric experts say there are no known measles cases in New Hampshire, but warn that falling vaccine rates can quickly turn “no outbreak” into one. Local Health & Community: Dartmouth Health’s Children’s locations and Manchester/Bedford pediatric leadership highlight vaccine hesitancy trends, while Meals on Wheels of Hillsborough County’s Dine Out Club pairs nutrition-focused menus with social support for older adults. Emergency Preparedness: Heat advisories and severe storm plans are active across parts of the Northeast, including New Hampshire, as officials warn of flash flooding and dangerous conditions. Care for Veterans: Easterseals NH broke ground on Phase II of its Military & Veterans Campus, expanding housing and adding new empowerment and recreation features.

Food Safety Alert: The CDC says cyclosporiasis tied to recalled shredded iceberg lettuce has now been linked to 15 states, adding Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina to a list that already included Michigan and Ohio; federal officials continue to focus on Taylor Farms lettuce from central Mexico, and warn the true number of illnesses may be higher because symptoms can take weeks to show up and testing/reporting can lag. Local Health Watch (N.H.): New Hampshire reports 69 cyclosporiasis cases this year, with three hospitalizations, and notes many cases trace back to lettuce served from recalled Taylor Farms products. Hospital Rankings: Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and Catholic Medical Center in Manchester hold the top two spots again in U.S. News’ 2026-2027 state “Best Hospitals” ranking. Community Nutrition: Meals on Wheels of Hillsborough County’s Dine Out Club is helping older adults get regular, nutritionally guided restaurant meals—plus social connection. Policy & Access: A New Hampshire insurance study finds women face provider shortages and other barriers to getting appropriate healthcare, including preventive and maternal services. Medicaid Fraud Push: New Hampshire’s broader health policy conversation echoes national calls—attorneys general are urging Congress to expand states’ authority to investigate Medicaid recipient fraud. Public Health Context: Experts say the outbreak’s widening footprint may reflect delayed diagnoses rather than new spread, so officials urge people to follow state guidance and discard recalled lettuce.

Cyclospora Update: New Hampshire’s confirmed cyclosporiasis cases jumped from 33 to 69, with 32 tied to recalled lettuce and 32 with no known link; three people were hospitalized and five cases involved international travel. Care Access Pressure: Manchester emergency departments are seeing hours-long waits, with one patient reporting a nine-hour wait after an ambulance transfer from the VA; hospitals cite system strain and limited beds. Women’s Health Barriers: A New Hampshire Insurance Department study finds women face provider shortages, affordability worries, and gaps in understanding insurance coverage—especially for preventive and maternal care. Medicaid Fraud Push: Attorney General Marty Jackley joined a coalition urging Congress to pass the STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act, expanding who state Medicaid fraud units can pursue. Local Health Support: Elliot Hospital’s nursing retention effort is helping students stay in school, and Winnipesaukee Wellness Center received a grant to expand supervised exercise and wellness education. Drug Pricing Enforcement: Michigan AG Dana Nessel announced a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing and competition limits. Public Safety & Health: A serious Route 101 crash in Keene sent one driver to Dartmouth-Hitchcock by helicopter; police also reported a second multi-car crash during the closure.

Foodborne Outbreak: New Hampshire’s confirmed cyclosporiasis cases jumped from 33 to 69, with 32 tied to recalled lettuce and 32 with no known source; three hospitalizations reported. CDC Update: The CDC is reportedly expanding the outbreak to 15 states, adding New Hampshire among others. Emergency Care Strain: Manchester-area patients are reporting hours-long waits in ERs, with delays linked to crowded departments and limited inpatient beds. Women’s Health Access: A new NH Insurance Department study finds women face provider shortages, affordability worries, and confusion about insurance coverage—especially for preventive and maternal care. Youth Detention Oversight: Rep. Maggie Goodlander is urging federal investigators to look into conditions at the Sununu Youth Services Center after years of abuse allegations and state findings of “dysfunction.” Workforce Support: Elliot Hospital’s nursing retention effort is helping students stay in school via a grant-funded program that covers essentials like groceries and transportation. Wellness & Community: Winnipesaukee Wellness Center received a grant to expand exercise and health education for adults.

Disability Care Fight: The DOJ says federal disability rights laws don’t require states to fund home-based services instead of institutions, setting up a likely legal showdown that could weaken protections for millions. Public Health—Cyclospora: Cheshire Medical Center reports 34 cyclosporiasis cases, with most tied to contaminated lettuce served in its cafeteria; Michigan also reported the first outbreak-linked deaths. Mosquito-Borne Risk: New Hampshire health officials found Jamestown Canyon Virus in mosquitoes in Derry and Hampton, bringing positive communities to six. Medicaid Fraud Enforcement: Missouri AG Catherine Hanaway joined a multi-state push for the STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act, which would expand states’ ability to investigate fraud by Medicaid beneficiaries and recipients. Veterans Health Access: Sen. Bernie Sanders announced new VA outpatient clinics for Vermont and West Chesterfield, New Hampshire, expected to open in spring 2029. State Budget Cuts: A new NH Fiscal Policy Institute analysis says “back-of-budget” reductions hit mental health, public health, and food assistance through the Department of Health and Human Services. Community Health & Education: WalletHub ranks New Hampshire near the bottom for early education systems, even as other rankings highlight strengths in healthcare.

Blood Supply Alert: The American Red Cross says nearly half of New Hampshire blood donation appointments over the next two weeks are still unfilled, with Type O especially needed as summer demand outpaces supply. Medicaid Fraud Push: Attorney General Catherine Hanaway urged Congress to pass the “STOP FRAUD in Medicaid Act,” arguing it would let states go after Medicaid beneficiary fraud, not just provider fraud. Drug Pricing Accountability: A coalition of 43 attorneys general announced a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing, with reforms promised and trial expected in 2027. State Budget Cuts Hit Health Programs: A New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute analysis says “back-of-budget” reductions are already trimming mental health, public health, and food assistance through DHHS, with more cuts possible. Community Health Investments: The NH Community Development Finance Authority awarded $5.54 million in tax credits, including Lakes Region projects aimed at child care, food security, and affordable housing. Behavioral Health Staffing: HealthReach welcomed Elisa Sousa, a clinician offering trauma-informed therapy and substance use counseling for Rangeley and Mt. Abram communities.

ATV Safety: New Hampshire Fish and Game reported an ATV crash in Berlin that injured Teeana Caton, 32, who was not wearing a helmet; investigators say she lost control on a rocky trail and was taken to Androscoggin Valley Hospital. Missing Persons: Megan Kelley, 39, was found alive after 27 hours lost near Dolly Copp Campground in Martin’s Location/Gorham and taken to Androscoggin Valley Hospital with no life-threatening injuries. Maternal Health: A CDC study found gestational hypertension rates rose in every state from 2016 to 2024; New Hampshire’s rate was among the higher states in 2024. Care Access: An opinion piece warns managed care organizations are cutting private duty nursing and aide hours for medically fragile children in New Hampshire’s Katie Beckett/related programs. Medical Education: Rivier University nursing student Katrina Asselin’s story highlights the strain of balancing parenting and clinical training while entering the workforce. Community Health & Wellness: New Hampshire’s medical cannabis program marked 10 years, with Graniteleaf saying it serves about 18,000 patients. Public Health & Food: Coverage continues around tick- and parasite-related health risks in the region, including Lyme diagnosis tools and cyclosporiasis updates.

Medical Cannabis Milestone: New Hampshire marked 10 years of its medical marijuana program, with one nonprofit dispensary saying it now serves about 18,000 patients statewide. Maternal Health Watch: A CDC study found gestational hypertension rates rose in every state from 2016 to 2024, with New Hampshire among the higher-rate states in 2024—highlighting ongoing risks for mothers and babies. School Nutrition: A New Hampshire doctor shared tips for making kids’ school lunches more nutritious as back-to-school season ramps up. Youth & Care Systems: The NH Office of the Child Advocate’s final report on potential abuse and neglect at the Sununu Youth Services Center could take weeks to months, with a focus on how isolation and lack of activity affect children’s health. Community Health & Support: Volunteer New Hampshire received $3.2 million in AmeriCorps grants to expand statewide service roles, including conservation and watershed work tied to local well-being. Public Safety: Two men were stabbed at Pawtuckaway State Park; both were hospitalized and in stable condition, and police say there’s no threat to the public.

New Hampshire healthcare spotlight: A new U.S. News & World Report “Best States” ranking puts New Hampshire at No. 6 overall, with No. 9 for healthcare and No. 1 for crime and corrections—plus strong marks for air and water quality. Local health & kids’ nutrition: A Southern New Hampshire Health doctor shares tips for packing more nutritious school lunches as back-to-school season ramps up. Care access for families: The state’s Office of the Child Advocate says its final report on potential abuse and neglect at the Sununu Youth Services Center could take weeks to months, with advocates emphasizing the health impacts of isolation and lack of activity. Mental health in the spotlight: A trial involving the deaths of three children has brought attention to postpartum psychosis, with NH advocates calling for more support for new mothers. Public health basics: A national piece lays out how SNAP benefits are scheduled for August 2026, including New Hampshire’s payment timing.

Mental Health & Community Wellbeing: A new national look at depression finds symptoms have surged since the pandemic, with fewer than 40% of people with depression getting treatment—an urgent reminder for New Hampshire to keep access to therapy and medication within reach. Back-to-School Nutrition: Southern New Hampshire Health interviewed Dr. Cara Kaupp on how parents can pack more nutritious school lunches for kids. Youth Mental Health Spotlight: The Lindsay Clancy trial is putting postpartum psychosis in the spotlight, with advocates urging more support for new mothers. Public Health—Foodborne Illness: New Hampshire reports more than 30 cyclosporiasis cases this year, while Vermont health officials say their confirmed cases remain low and likely travel-related; officials continue to stress food safety and watch for symptoms. Local Health System & Care Access: A final report on the Sununu Youth Services Center investigation could take weeks or months, with a focus on how isolation and lack of activity can affect children’s health. Healthcare Rankings: New Hampshire is ranked No. 6 overall in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best States, scoring especially well for healthcare access and quality. Caregiving & Workforce Support: AmeriCorps funding restores $3.2M for Volunteer New Hampshire programs, supporting more than 120 members and conservation work tied to community health.

Best-States Watch: U.S. News ranked New Hampshire No. 6 overall in its 2026 “Best States” list, with standout scores for crime and corrections (No. 1) and natural environment (No. 3), plus healthcare at No. 9—while economy and fiscal stability lagged. Maternal Mental Health: A New Hampshire-linked spotlight on postpartum psychosis is emerging from the Lindsay Clancy trial, where advocates say the case shows how urgently new mothers need better support. Healthcare Access & Work: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in NH argues hybrid care is becoming a business necessity for employers trying to simplify benefits and reduce total cost of care. Local Care Expansion: Local Infusion opened a new Rochester clinic with six private infusion suites and faster scheduling, aiming to make specialty infusion therapy more affordable and easier to access. Public Health—Ticks & Parasites: CDC data show babesiosis cases are rising nationally during peak tick season, and New Hampshire health officials report more than 30 cyclosporiasis cases this year as the outbreak continues. Community Support: AmeriCorps grants totaling $3.2 million restore funding for Volunteer New Hampshire programs, including conservation work through the Lakes Region Conservation Corps.

Child Welfare Leadership: New Hampshire’s Office of the Child Advocate is getting a temporary leader: former Manchester Police Chief and Army National Guard Brig. Gen. Allen Aldenberg was approved as acting child advocate, with Mayor Jay Ruais praising his track record. Maternal Mental Health: The Lindsay Clancy murder trial in Massachusetts is drawing attention to postpartum psychosis, with advocates in New Hampshire urging more support for new mothers facing severe mental health crises. Foodborne Illness Watch: Vermont confirmed five cyclosporiasis cases and says risk remains low, while New Hampshire health officials report more than 30 cases statewide; officials note many cases may be travel-related and stress food safety and symptom awareness. Tick-Season Health: A national update puts reported babesiosis cases at 3,586 for 2023 as tick season ramps up, underscoring that treatment can differ from Lyme. Local Care Access: A new Local Infusion clinic opened in Rochester with private infusion suites and faster scheduling, aiming to improve access and reduce costs. Court Health: New Hampshire Supreme Court Chief Justice Gordon MacDonald is on medical leave effective immediately, with operations continuing as scheduled.

Lyme Prevention Breakthrough: A new at-home test for infected ticks is set to hit the market in August, aiming to speed Lyme disease diagnosis and reduce the guesswork after bites. Rural Care & AI Skepticism: National health leaders say AI could help rural patients access care (including mental health), but rural residents remain wary and critics question whether outcomes will actually improve. New Hampshire Medicaid Home Care: New Hampshire’s Medicaid managed care organizations reversed cuts to nursing hours for medically complex children after parent pressure, with the state stepping in to restore life-sustaining home services. Child Care Support in NH: Child Care Aware of New Hampshire—federally funded and state-approved—helps families and providers navigate programs, referrals, and workforce supports. Healthcare Rankings Spotlight: New Hampshire again topped WalletHub’s 2026 healthcare report, citing low premiums and low uninsured rates, while separate US News rankings put NH among the top states for overall health and public safety. Mobile Integrated Health Expansion: Laconia is seeking grant funding to expand its mobile integrated health program, designed to connect clinical care with emergency services and reduce unnecessary 911 calls. Public Health Watch: New Hampshire continues to track cyclosporiasis cases as health officials stress food safety and ongoing monitoring.