AGP Executive Report

Medicaid Coverage Crunch: Michigan has already lost more than 149,000 people from Medicaid in 16 months, and new federal work and eligibility rules could push more low-income and disabled residents into the uninsured—advocates warn the state may face a surge in coverage gaps. Lead Poisoning Push: Michigan House Health Policy Committee advanced a bipartisan “Lead Poisoning Prevention Package” to better match CDC thresholds, require toxic metals testing for baby food, and trigger automatic Early On referrals for kids under 3 with elevated levels. Cancer Support in the North: Friends Together is expanding its free wig program in Northeast Michigan through a new partnership, adding same-day fitting and more wig styles and accessories for people dealing with treatment-related hair loss. Breast Cancer Care Update: A JAMA Surgery study finds pre-op axillary ultrasound can expand upfront sentinel lymph node biopsy eligibility for some breast cancer patients, potentially helping them avoid more invasive axillary surgery. Asthma Medication Disparities: New research in JAMA shows long-acting asthma inhaler use remains lower for multiple racial and ethnic groups, even after accounting for access and socioeconomic factors. Local Health Policy Watch: Lawmakers questioned Rx Kids founder Dr. Mona Hanna during a hearing as the cash-aid program for moms and babies expands across Michigan. Public Health & Safety: Michigan is also seeing rising tick-borne illness concerns, including alpha-gal syndrome linked to some tick bites.

Healthcare Fraud Crackdown: The DOJ says it secured convictions of six people in three weeks tied to about $1.1 billion in healthcare fraud, with cases tried in places including Detroit and Michigan. Public Health & Safety: Michigan beachgoers can breathe easier for now—state data shows no beaches currently closed or under advisories for high bacteria levels, though residents are urged to check online. Infectious Disease Oversight: Two NIH researchers face federal charges after authorities say they tried to bring 113 vials containing deactivated mpox-related material into the U.S. through Detroit Metro Airport. Local Health Access: Friends Together in northeast Michigan is expanding its free wig program for cancer patients through a new national partnership, adding more wigs and accessories. Community Health Needs: A food desert explainer highlights how limited access to fresh food affects health across Michigan and points readers to help. Injury & Emergency Response: A man was critically injured in a Detroit crash after a vehicle landed on two parked cars, and he remains in critical condition.

Hospital Innovation in Michigan: Wayne State University and RediMinds Inc. received a new USPTO patent for real-time detection and visualization of surgical bleeding during minimally invasive procedures, aiming to reduce “red out” complications. Public Health & Food Safety: The FDA is investigating two new foodborne illness outbreaks—one involving Listeria and another involving Cyclospora—while also continuing work on multiple Salmonella outbreaks tied to moringa supplement products. Cancer Research: U-M Rogel Cancer Center researchers helped publish findings showing the immune system can attack cancer in a way that challenges a core immunology assumption, potentially opening new treatment paths. Care Access in West Michigan: AgeWell Services eliminated waitlists for Meals on Wheels and Senior Medical Transportation in Oceana, Muskegon and Ottawa counties. Local Health & Wellness: Orthopaedic Associates of Muskegon (OAM) and i’move opened a new physical therapy clinic inside the Tiger Athletic Community Center in Shelby Township, expanding rehab access with sports-focused space. Community Health Support: Iron Area Health Foundation awarded a $500 mini-grant for a West Iron County Elementary School Family Fun Run to boost kids’ physical activity. Health Coverage & Rights: A report says a migrant patient treated at DMC after an ICE encounter was denied updates and visitor access, raising concerns about hospital transparency.

Rx Kids Oversight Clash: Michigan lawmakers sparred over the state’s Rx Kids cash-assistance program, questioning oversight, accountability, and long-term costs as the founder defended the “universal and unconditional” approach during a House Oversight Committee hearing. Public Health & Safety: Federal prosecutors charged two NIH researchers with allegedly smuggling deactivated mpox virus vials into the U.S. through Detroit Metro Airport and lying to investigators. Rural Care Funding: An opinion piece argues Michigan’s new rural health transformation money should spread proven models statewide, not just succeed locally. Wildlife & Community: DNR and local partners safely tranquilized and relocated a 150-pound black bear from a Mt. Pleasant neighborhood, using a pole vault pad to prevent injury. Healthcare Tech in Michigan: Munson Healthcare’s drone-delivery pilot was delayed after a partner company left, leaving the project still grounded as it was expected to ramp up in May.

Mpox Case in Detroit: Two NIH researchers were charged after allegedly smuggling deactivated mpox vials into the U.S. through Detroit Metro Airport and lying to investigators. Food Safety Recall: Champion Foods recalled certain batches of Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread due to possible Salmonella contamination, sold at major retailers including Costco, Walmart and Target. Public Health Policy: Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined a 24-state coalition opposing a Trump administration proposal that could steer retirement savings into riskier investments. End-of-Life Debate: Michigan lawmakers are again considering a “Death with Dignity Act” that would allow doctors to prescribe life-ending medication for terminally ill patients. Water Quality Watch: Allegan County Health Department kicked off its beach sampling season, testing E. coli levels at multiple local beaches through late August. Care Access & Recovery: Thumb Community Health Partnership is offering free “Scrub In!” one-day nursing camps for students entering grades 9-11. Health Care Pricing Debate: Opinion pieces continue to push for reform of Michigan’s health care pricing system. Infectious Disease Research Limits: Michigan State University researchers say federal rules restrict cannabis studies to low-potency products that don’t match what people buy in Michigan.

Hospital Pricing & Private Equity: Two new Michigan opinion pieces argue the state’s health care pricing system is distorted, with hospital markups and consolidation leaving patients paying more without better outcomes, while private equity’s cost-cutting is flagged as a risk to care quality. Drug Safety in Mid-Michigan: UM Health-Sparrow’s medical examiner reports 120 drug-related deaths across seven counties in 2025, with fentanyl and polysubstance use still driving overdoses. Public Health Alert: West Nile virus has been confirmed in two West Michigan mosquito locations near Grand Rapids, prompting renewed bite-prevention reminders. Maternal & Infant Support: RX Kids founder Dr. Mona Hanna faced questions from Michigan lawmakers during a hearing about how the program’s stipends are used and its impact on outcomes for moms and babies. Community Health Needs: The American Red Cross is urging blood donations in SE Michigan after a sharp drop in scheduled drives. Corrections Staffing & Health System Strain: Michigan’s MDOC is raising pay for new correctional officer recruits in five Upper Peninsula facilities to address staffing shortages that can affect safety and health services.

Medicare Fraud Prevention: Michigan’s MDHHS, DIFS and AG are urging residents to watch for Medicare scams during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week (June 1-5), warning that fraud can delay care and stress families; officials say don’t share Medicare or Social Security info with anyone who pressures you by phone, online or at the door. Maternal & Infant Support: Rx Kids launched in Muskegon and Muskegon Heights, giving pregnant and new moms direct cash support ($1,500 during pregnancy and $500 monthly in infancy) to help cover essentials like diapers, formula and rent. CPR for Kids: University of Michigan Health is pushing CPR and AED training for parents and teachers during National CPR and AED Awareness Week, noting Michigan’s school cardiac emergency plans aren’t yet funded. Hepatitis B Breakthrough: A first-of-its-kind hepatitis B drug (bepirovirsen) is showing “functional cure” results in about 1 in 5 patients in international studies, with U-M experts calling for more follow-up on how long remission lasts. Local Health Access: Sterling Area Health Center is hosting free food giveaways at four mid-Michigan schools in June, open to the public. Water Safety Alert: Union Township residents in affected areas face a boil-water advisory after a June 2 water main repair, with officials expecting it to lift by June 5. Care Capacity: Cascade Township is exploring an ambulance transport program as rising low-acuity medical calls strain fire crews and delay responses.

NIH-Funded Knee Exoskeleton Research: A University of Michigan team is testing a new approach for osteoarthritis knee pain—using orthotic braces with motor support—after early results showed pain reduction in a small pilot and prior work reduced muscle effort. The project received $2 million from the NIH. Public Health & Food Safety: Michigan shoppers are being urged to check cabinets after Walmart and Target sold vitamins recalled over possible Salmonella contamination tied to moringa leaf powder. Access to Care & Community Health: Washtenaw United highlights the “silent epidemic” of chronic kidney disease, noting 1 in 7 Michigan adults have CKD and calling for earlier prevention and support. Mental Health Support: The Barb Smith Suicide Resource & Response Network announced its 24th Annual Walk for Hope on Aug. 2 at Saginaw Valley State University, aiming to fund suicide prevention training and community resources. Policy Watch (Food Assistance): New SNAP work requirements are now in effect, with some Michigan recipients facing a deadline as grace periods end.

Substance Use Treatment: A new U.S. trial found a single dose of psilocybin plus psychotherapy increased cocaine abstinence and reduced relapse risk at 180 days for adults with cocaine use disorder. Michigan Policy Watch: Michigan House Democrats revived physician-assisted suicide legislation under a “Death with Dignity” framework, but it faces strong Republican and medical opposition. Public Health Alert: Michigan agencies are urging residents to watch for harmful algal blooms as summer nears, with a new online reporting form for suspected cyanobacteria toxins. Health Care Coverage: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Michigan Medicine reached a contract agreement, keeping academic health system providers in-network. Legal/Health Safety: Attorney General Dana Nessel secured a $108M settlement with Monsanto over PCB contamination, with funds earmarked for remediation and public health risk reduction. Workplace Health: A Michigan nurse is facing viral backlash over alleged violent comments in a social media video, raising questions about professional responsibility and online speech. Community/Access: Marquette Maritime Museum is joining Blue Star Museums, offering free admission to active-duty military and families this summer.

Dialysis Innovation in Michigan: Israeli med-tech startup PatenSee is bringing an AI-powered, non-contact imaging system to help clinicians assess dialysis vascular access, partnering with Henry Ford Health and planning a Michigan U.S. HQ ahead of an early-2027 commercial launch. Public Health & Water Safety: Wisconsin’s DNR is asking the public to comment to update its Great Lakes beach list ahead of summer, aiming to keep water monitoring and public notifications current. Workplace Safety: A 50-year-old tree trimmer died after a tree fell on him in Monroe Township; investigators say he tried to grab a rope as the tree came down, and MIOSHA is involved. Community Health Access: A Christian singer returned to the stage after vocal-cord damage from a car accident, receiving surgery at the University of Michigan Health Vocal Health Center. Safety & Accountability in Policing: A teen was killed in Fraser after an officer shot him during a domestic dispute response; the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating. Healthy Aging: A 101-year-old in Jackson credits daily YMCA exercise—swimming, Zumba, walking, and staying socially active—for her longevity. Senior Growth Watch: A new regional report highlights fast-growing senior populations in Macomb County, underscoring the need for more local services for older residents.

Medicaid Fight: Gov. Tina Kotek leads a multi-state pushback against a new federal Medicaid mandate, warning Michigan and other states face unclear rules, rushed timelines, and major system overhaul costs that could leave eligible people without coverage. Lake Erie Health: A University of Michigan study finds Lake Erie harmful algal blooms can produce a wider range of toxic compounds than previously thought, raising concerns for microcystins and related drinking-water risks. Workforce & Training: Ferris State University’s RN-to-MSN online program earned top national recognition in Michigan for affordability and quality, highlighting ongoing demand for advanced nursing roles. Veterans Access: A VA outreach/enrollment event in Houghton County will help more veterans qualify for VA health care under expanded eligibility tied to the PACT Act. Local Care Support: Munson Healthcare donated $7,500 to Northern Michigan’s Women’s Resource Center to expand mental health counseling and improve survivor-centered spaces in Petoskey. Prevention Tips: Michigan health and safety guidance spotlights rising tick activity, with recommendations for year-round prevention, tick checks, and Lyme vaccination for dogs. Community Health: Marquette’s SPEX opened with a prevention-focused, whole-body wellness approach connecting eye health to overall health.

Measles Watch (Public Health): Michigan ended its outbreak-related early MMR recommendation for infants ages 6–11 months in seven southeast counties after community spread subsided, with MDHHS noting 2,371 early doses were given from April 8 to May 16. Hospital & Care Recognition: UM Health-Sparrow Eaton honored three staff with Fulton Awards of Excellence, including an Anticoagulation RN, an EVS floor technician, and a perioperative services leader. Healthcare Costs (Local Business): A Michigan Small Business Association survey finds nearly 8 in 10 small employers saw double-digit increases in employee health premiums, and many say they may drop coverage if costs don’t fall. Mental Health (Community): Family Fun Fest returned in Michiana with a focus on mental health awareness and free resources from dozens of organizations. Policy Debate (End-of-Life): Michigan lawmakers are debating a Death with Dignity Act for terminally ill patients, with supporters citing safeguards and opponents warning of moral and vulnerability concerns. Safety & Access (Transit): Detroit Metro Airport reported a second crash into the Evans Terminal this year, with no serious injuries.

Lyme Fight: HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is set to unveil new efforts to combat Lyme disease, as cases rise across the Northeast and parts of the Upper Midwest including Michigan. NICU Upgrade (Traverse City): Munson Healthcare broke ground on a new NICU at Munson Medical Center, replacing the current unit and adding more privacy, space, and family amenities. Medicaid Fraud (Livonia): Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel charged a Northville-area dentist with 43 felony counts tied to an alleged Medicaid fraud scheme, including billing for more extensive procedures than were performed. Water Safety (Michigan-linked): Volunteers will monitor Grand Traverse Bay watershed streams in early June to track water quality, using trained citizen science to fill local data gaps. Chocolate Recall (Michigan): FDA-linked recall warns Michigan shoppers to check cabinets for SkinnyDipped Dark Chocolate Coconut Almond Bites that may contain peanut butter allergens. Healthcare Innovation (Opinion): A Michigan op-ed argues that real healthcare innovation requires action—workforce, faster institutional change, and updated policy—not just big conferences.

Health Care Contract Relief: Michigan Medicine and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan reached a new five-year agreement, ending a months-long dispute that could have pushed about 300,000 members out of network. Local Public Health: District Health Department No. 10 lifted a Lake Cadillac city dock water-contact advisory after follow-up testing showed E. coli levels dropped below unsafe thresholds. Maternal/Infant Outcomes: Flint’s Rx Kids program is linked to improved newborn outcomes, including a reported 29% drop in NICU admissions. Policy & Access: Michigan lawmakers are reviving a push to legalize physician-assisted suicide, while other coverage highlights ongoing debates over health care affordability and rural access. Medical Research Watch: A hepatitis B “functional cure” drug (beprirovirsen) showed promising results in studies, with experts urging longer follow-up. Health System Accountability: A judge ordered a former Michigan House aide to stand trial over alleged misuse of a $25M health park grant in Clare. Safety & Community Health: Authorities reported a teen shot in Detroit; police are searching for suspects.

Insurance Access: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Michigan Medicine reached a long-term contract agreement, avoiding a July 1 coverage disruption for about 300,000 patients and preserving in-network access statewide. Public Health Alerts: Kent County Health Department confirmed a rabies-positive bat, urging residents to avoid contact and seek immediate medical care if a bite or scratch is possible; bats can enter homes unnoticed. Maternal & Infant Health: Children Trust Michigan raised nearly $700,000 at its Pam Posthumus Signature Auction to fund child abuse prevention, including home-visiting support through partners like the Northeast Michigan Family Resource Center’s Day One program. Policy Watch: Michigan lawmakers revived a push to legalize physician-assisted suicide, with House Democrats advancing bills while Republicans and major medical groups oppose. Community Health & Wellness: Mary Free Bed and Munson Healthcare teamed up to help Northern Michigan golfers prevent overuse injuries with guidance on warm-ups and when to seek evaluation. Local Health Funding: Complete Health Park founder David Coker Jr. is set to stand trial on felony charges tied to alleged misuse of a $25 million state grant.

Insurance & Access: Blue Cross Blue Shield and Michigan Medicine reached a long-term contract deal, keeping Michigan Medicine in-network and easing worries for families facing coverage gaps. Maternal & Infant Health: Flint’s Rx Kids program is linked to better birth outcomes, including fewer low-birthweight and preterm births and a drop in NICU admissions, according to a new study. Public Health: Michigan ended its early MMR vaccine recommendation for infants 6–11 months after the southeast Michigan measles outbreak ended, while urging residents to stay up to date. Community Health & Safety: Ferris State University issued a “no body contact” advisory at a Cadillac city dock after elevated E. coli levels, with officials citing possible flooding-related contamination. Behavioral Health & Justice: Alpena County received a $60,000 grant to map how behavioral health and the criminal justice system interact, aiming to reduce gaps in care. Legal/Health Policy: A federal appeals court dismissed a Right to Life lawsuit challenging Michigan’s reproductive freedom protections, and Michigan’s State Bar president highlighted lawyer mental wellness and support. Workplace Health: MDOT identified two workers killed in a US-127 crash, underscoring work-zone safety.