AGP Executive Report

Alzheimer’s & Brain Health: MSDH is urging Mississippians to protect brain health during Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, listing 10 warning signs and noting Black Americans face higher risk. Emergency Care Expansion: Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg is renovating and expanding its emergency department, adding a more efficient “hotel-like” front area and more treatment rooms to move patients through faster. SNAP Security Upgrade: MDHS is rolling out the ConnectEBT mobile app on June 11 with a card-lock feature and default blocks on online and out-of-state SNAP transactions to curb fraud and theft. Mental Health Access via Telepsychiatry: A new report highlights how telepsychiatry can help close gaps in psychiatric care where “psychiatric deserts” leave many without timely help. Class Action Over Data Center Noise: Mississippi residents filed a federal class action against xAI and SpaceX over alleged 24/7 noise and vibrations from a Southaven power plant, claiming health and property impacts. Veterans Benefits Help: A coalition clinic in Memphis connected 100+ veterans with in-person support for VA disability claims and VA.gov/My HealtheVet help. Contraception Access Spotlight: A giant inflatable IUD outside the Mississippi Capitol is drawing attention to contraception protections and state-level efforts. Home Care Funding Growth: PRN Funding expanded home care invoice factoring into four new states, including Mississippi, aiming to speed cash for staffing and operations.

Home Care Funding Expansion: PRN Funding says it’s expanding its home care invoice factoring footprint from Pennsylvania into Ohio, Minnesota, Florida, and Missouri—aiming to help agencies get faster cash for payroll, staffing, and growth, with Mississippi experience cited as part of its foundation. Behavioral Health Access: U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith welcomed Mississippi’s inclusion in the four-year CCBHC Medicaid Demonstration, which is designed to expand mental health and substance use treatment through Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. SNAP Security Update: MDHS is rolling out the ConnectEBT app and a card lock feature June 11, with default blocking of online and out-of-state SNAP transactions to reduce theft and fraud risk. Child Well-Being Snapshot: Mississippi is ranked 50th overall in the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book, with the state’s strongest area in education (16th) but major gaps in health and other domains. Blood Supply Push: The American Red Cross is scheduling multiple Mississippi Coast blood drives starting June 15 after officials warn of an earlier-than-expected summer shortage. Coastal Research Boost: NOAA launched CIFARM, a new aquaculture research and markets initiative hosted by the University of New Hampshire, with Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium among partners. Local Health & Safety: Authorities arrested two brothers after a Covington County deputy was shot during a traffic stop and chase; the deputy was reported in stable condition.

Heat & Public Health: A Mississippi State University Extension explainer highlights mosquitoes as the “world’s deadliest animal,” noting 60 species statewide and that only a few transmit diseases—plus tips for avoiding bites as warm weather ramps up. Housing & Homelessness: Local providers say a nearly 20% homelessness increase in Mississippi is showing up in Meridian, driven by rising rents, low wages, and mental health strain. Food Benefits Security: MDHS is rolling out the ConnectEBT app with a card lock feature for SNAP, including default blocking of online and out-of-state transactions starting June 11. Child Well-Being Watch: The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s KIDS COUNT report shows Mississippi still near the bottom nationally, while neighboring states like Arkansas and New Mexico show mixed progress—education remains a major weak spot. Safety & Trauma: Multiple incidents underscore urgent health risks—from a Jackson trail ride shooting with one dead and five injured to a Madison County head-on crash that killed a child and sent others to UMMC. Corrections Mental Health: Central Mississippi Correctional Facility is operating a new Behavioral Management Unit for inmates with mental illness and substance use disorders.

Child Safety & Trauma Care: A head-on crash on MS-22 in Madison County killed one child and injured four others, with multiple children transported to UMMC and one airlifted, as Mississippi Highway Patrol continues investigating. Child Well-Being & Health Access: The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book ranks Mississippi last overall for child well-being (50th), while noting the state’s education ranking is 16th but health indicators—including lack of insurance and obesity—drag the overall score down. Officer Mental Health: The Mississippi National Guard’s Shield Summit in Flowood (June 9-11) spotlights officer wellness and resilience, with retired Lt. Col. Dave Grossman headlining training on high-stress performance and mental health. Maternal & Family Health: A fertility specialist with prior experience at UMMC is expanding Positive Steps Fertility clinics, citing a higher-than-average success rate and emphasizing early evaluation when pregnancy doesn’t happen. Public Health Advocacy: Over 100 organizations kicked off Blood Advocacy Week 2026, urging Congress to prioritize blood supply policies, including prehospital transfusion access and modernizing blood banking rules. Community Health & Support: Big House Books in Jackson keeps donating hundreds of books weekly to Mississippi prisons, framing reading as mental health support and a path to better outcomes behind bars. Workplace Safety & Food Supply: Consolidated Catfish won a USDA contract worth $848,160 to supply catfish for school lunches and federal food programs, while also drawing attention to prior workplace safety concerns. Tick-Borne Disease Warning: MSU Extension’s entomologist urges Mississippians to take Rocky Mountain spotted fever seriously during tick season, noting symptoms can appear before a rash.

Regulatory Watch: Mississippi is taking public comments through June 22 on temporary barbering and cosmetology rules that could affect health, safety, and business standards statewide. Public Health & Access: A new KIDS COUNT report finds child wellbeing fell after COVID, with reading and math proficiency dropping in 47 states; Mississippi’s score is far below the national average, and the report also flags uninsured children as a growing concern in the region. Insurance & Home Safety: Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney says Gulf Coast homeowners may see stable rates in 2027 and is pushing a roof mitigation program offering up to $10,000 for qualifying repairs. Medicaid Spending (Local): In Morton, Medicaid payments for Temporary National Codes rose to $252,102 in 2024, while Pascagoula saw a 75.6% jump in anesthesia-related Medicaid spending. Long-Term Care: CMS data shows Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg received a 5-star overall rating in Q1 2026, with no fines or penalties reported. Food Safety: A CDC-linked salmonella outbreak tied to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including Mississippi, with young children hit hardest. Community Health Events: Women gather in Jackson to support heart health and maternal care, highlighting ongoing focus on cardiovascular and pregnancy-related needs. Safety Incident: Jackson police are investigating a Sharp Street double shooting that sent a man and woman to UMMC for treatment.

Medicaid Spending Watch: New data show Medicaid billing shifts in Mississippi communities—Morton providers reported $252,102 in Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare) claims in 2024, while Pascagoula saw a 75.6% jump in anesthesia-related Medicaid spending and Ripley logged $47,351 in dental claims. Nursing Home Oversight: CMS Q1 2026 ownership and ratings updates include Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg (overall 5-star rating) and multiple Mississippi nursing facilities’ staffing/care rankings. Public Health & Food Safety: A CDC-linked salmonella outbreak tied to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including Mississippi, with young children hit hardest. Heat & Consumer Safety: Louisiana officials warn drivers to remove items like aerosol cans and certain medicines from hot cars to prevent heat damage and fire risk—relevant for Mississippi summer planning. Local Health Access: Mississippi’s Insurance Commissioner discussed homeowners insurance and a roof mitigation program that can help Gulf Coast residents strengthen properties. Community Health Events: Women’s groups in Jackson are supporting heart health and maternal care, while local calendars highlight upcoming wellness-focused community gatherings.

Nursing Home Oversight: CMS ownership and quality data show Merit Health Wesley in Hattiesburg is run by QHG of Forrest County and QHG of Hattiesburg, with a 5-star overall CMS rating in Q1 2026 and no fines or penalties recorded. Medicaid Spending Watch: In Pascagoula, Medicaid anesthesia-related claims jumped 75.6% in 2024, while Morton’s Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare) claims rose 13.6% to $252,102 and Ripley’s dental claims climbed 16.8% to $47,351. Health Workforce: Memorial Health System’s Graduate Medical Education program graduated 17 residents across internal medicine and family medicine, aiming to help retain more doctors on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Public Safety & Health: Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney discussed homeowners insurance stability and a roof mitigation program offering up to $10,000 for qualifying repairs. Community Health Tips: State officials also shared summer heat and sun safety reminders, warning residents about heat illness and water risks. Legal/Access: Mississippi Supreme Court upheld a conviction in a Starkville aggravated assault/attempted robbery case, keeping the focus on courtroom outcomes that can affect community safety.

Medicaid Spending Watch: Pascagoula saw Medicaid anesthesia spending jump 75.6% in 2024, with $89,850 billed—up from $51,179 in 2023—highlighting how public health dollars can swing locally. Rural Health Funding: Mississippi lawmakers are pressing for more transparency over how nearly $206 million in federal Rural Health Transformation Program money will reach rural communities. Nursing Home Quality & Penalties: CMS data show Lakeview Nursing Center in Gulfport (for-profit) earned a 3-star overall rating in Q1 2026, but also logged three fines and penalties. Doctor Pipeline: Memorial Health System’s GME program graduated 17 residents, aiming to help address Mississippi’s physician shortage by training more doctors locally. Heat & Medication Safety: With summer heat building, Louisiana safety guidance warns drivers not to leave items like medication and aerosol products in parked cars—an issue that matters for Mississippi families too. Community Health Events: A Columbus-Lowndes library “Writing to Heal” group and other local events point to growing focus on wellness and support.

Nursing Home Oversight: CMS data shows Lakeview Nursing Center in Gulfport (for-profit) earned a Q1 2026 overall rating of 3, above Mississippi’s 2.7 state average, but also logged three fines and penalties totaling $35,603. Graduate Medical Education: Memorial Health System’s GME program graduated 17 residents (6 internal medicine, 11 family medicine), aiming to help address Mississippi’s physician shortage and retain more clinicians on the Coast. Rural Mental Health Funding: Communicare was named a pilot site for the federal Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Medicaid Demonstration Program, bringing more stable Medicaid-based support for mental health, addiction, crisis care, and primary care in north Mississippi counties. Maternal Health Investment: The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi expanded maternal and infant health work with a $1.17 million grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, funding community-centered programs in Sunflower County, Metro Jackson, and East Biloxi. Rural Health Grants Scrutiny: Mississippi lawmakers raised concerns about transparency and whether federal Rural Health Transformation Program dollars will reach rural communities as applications open. Public Health & Safety: Mississippi officials said New World screwworm detection poses no threat to human food safety, while a new study warns even “acceptable” air pollution levels may still raise cardiovascular risk. Community Health Events: The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women luncheon in Jackson spotlighted heart health, maternal care, and CPR training for women.

Rural Health & Nursing Homes: CMS data highlights a mixed nursing-home picture in Mississippi: Forrest General Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit earned a 5-star overall rating in Q1 2026, while Hinds County’s Pine Forest Health and Rehabilitation posted a 1-star overall rating and racked up multiple fines/penalties. Maternal Health Access: A new ConsumerAffairs report ranks Mississippi among the worst states for having a baby, pointing to gaps in maternal care access, childbirth affordability, postpartum support, and outcomes. Public Health & Environment: Research finds “acceptable” air pollution levels can still raise cardiovascular risk, even when PM2.5 stays below federal limits. Food Access: Delta Harvest Neighborhood Market opened in Jackson at the Jackson Medical Mall, aiming to keep local dollars in-state and expand access to farm-fresh produce and meals. Weather & Health: Saharan dust is expected to reach Mississippi this weekend, with potential air-quality impacts. Safety Watch: In Simpson County, a teen accused in a home invasion that killed an elderly couple appeared in court; bond was denied and charges include capital murder and assaults.

Nursing Home Quality Watch: CMS data shows Forrest General Hospital Skilled Nursing Unit (Forrest County) hit a 5-star overall rating in Q1 2026 with no fines or penalties, while Pine Forest Health and Rehabilitation (Hinds County) fell to a 1-star overall rating and racked up fines/penalties. More CMS Results: Golden Age Nursing Home (Leflore County) earned a 4-star overall rating with no penalties. Hospital Access Under Pressure: Greenwood Leflore Hospital pushed its projected closure to July 31, giving staff about two more months as it tries to stay open. Rural Health Funding: Mississippi rolled out early plans for its Rural Health Transformation Program, aiming for $1B+ over five years, but some providers say timelines are too tight. HIV Coverage Fight: A national HIV advocacy group accuses Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi of not covering certain HIV prevention/treatment options required under federal rules. Public Health & Safety: New research links even low air pollution levels to heart harm; Mississippi health officials also shared summer heat and water safety tips. Food Safety Reassurance: Mississippi’s agriculture commissioner says a New World screwworm detection in Texas poses no risk to the meat supply.

Summer Safety Push: The Mississippi State Department of Health is urging residents to beat heat and bugs with hydration, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and water safety tips as temperatures climb. Public Health in the Community: The 403rd Wing’s “101 Critical Days of Summer” campaign highlights heat illness and rip-current risks, pushing families to plan ahead for safer outdoor fun. Violence Prevention Events: STR8UP Mentoring Foundation’s Community Love Fest 2026 runs June 3-7 with violence-prevention programming, youth empowerment, and health/resource activities. Nursing Home Oversight: A wave of Mississippi CMS updates and rankings spotlights nursing home performance and ratings across multiple counties, including facilities receiving 4- and 5-star scores and others flagged with lower ratings. Injury & Death on the Roads: Fatal crashes in Stone County (Highway 26) and Pearl River County (Highway 43) are under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Investigation Update: The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is probing an inmate death at the Lee County Jail, with an autopsy ordered through the State Medical Examiner’s Office. Health Policy & Access: A national debate continues over Protect Life funding rules affecting Title X and abortion-related referrals, with Mississippi lawmakers urging restoration. Food Safety: Local health inspection results list multiple food-service spots earning perfect scores, reinforcing ongoing compliance checks.

Nursing Home Watch (CMS Q1 2026): CMS data spotlighted big shifts across Mississippi nursing homes—some stand out for size and star ratings, others for lower scores and penalties. Tippah County: Rest Haven Health and Rehabilitation ranked No. 2, with a 2/5 overall rating. Hinds County: Clinton Healthcare ranked No. 2 with a 3/5 rating and no fines/penalties. Bolivar County: Diversicare of Shelby tied for No. 2 (3/5, no fines/penalties). Leake County: Carthage Senior Care took No. 2 (5/5, no fines/penalties). Harrison County: The Pillars of Biloxi tied for largest but scored 1/5 and reported fines/penalties. Lee County: Manhattan Nursing and Rehabilitation Center tied for No. 2 on size (2/5) and reported $22,808 in fines. Public Health & Care Access: A new Health One multipurpose medical facility is planned for Picayune, aiming to bring sleep studies, specialty services, and equipment closer to Pearl River County residents. Alzheimer’s Update: A Mississippi report highlights new treatments and a state law pushing earlier detection, with patient stories tied to infusion therapy. Environment & Heart Health: Ole Miss researchers say air pollution below EPA limits may still harm heart health. Legal/Pharma: A federal judge tossed a lawsuit by AbbVie and others challenging Mississippi’s discount drug law.

Heat & Water Safety: Mississippi health officials are urging Gulf Coast residents to protect themselves as temperatures rise, warning about heat illness and Vibrio bacteria in warm coastal waters—especially for people with open cuts and anyone boating or fishing. Food Safety Oversight: Panola County food service inspections in May found no C grades, with four A ratings and three B ratings, reminding residents that letter grades must be posted. Nursing Career Pipeline: Leland students Lana Upshur and Kenzlee Wooley were accepted into Mississippi nursing programs, with Upshur heading to Delta State’s BSN track and Wooley continuing through MDCC. Local Blood Supply: Mississippi Blood Services is hosting a June 9 mobile blood drive in Water Valley to help offset summer donation declines. Community Healing: Meridian’s Reconciliation Week (July 7-12) will mark the 23rd anniversary of the 2003 Lockheed Martin shooting with events focused on unity and service. Workforce & Care Access (Workforce Shortage): Maryland’s move into an interstate school psychologist licensure compact highlights ongoing behavioral health staffing gaps—an issue Mississippi families can’t ignore.

Nursing Home Watch (CMS Q1 2026): Several Mississippi facilities’ ownership and performance details for Q1 2026 were released by CMS, including Cleveland Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Lee County) staying with D&N, LLC/DTD HC, LLC since 2003 and earning a 1-star rating; MS Care Center of Greenville (Washington County) owned by Steven Delaney and Garry Pace since 2004 with a 5-star rating and no fines; Sharkey-Issaquena Nursing Home (Sharkey County) owned by Sharkey Issaquena Community Hospital since 2016 with a 3-star rating and no fines; and River Chase Village (Jackson County) with a 3-star rating and no fines. Biggest-in-County Lists: Brandon Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Lee County) led by size (230 beds) but posted a 1-star rating and $97,553 in fines; Diversicare of Moss Point (Jackson County) led with 160 beds and a 3-star rating; Hattiesburg Health & Rehab Center (Forrest County) led with 164 beds and a 3-star rating; Crystal Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center (Leflore County) led with 100 beds but earned a 1-star rating. Hospital Expansion/Change: Baptist Memorial Health Care will take over Merit Health Rankin (Rankin County) later this year, with a $70 million investment and a commitment to keep active employees in good standing. Maternal Care Access: Black midwives in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi sued over state rules requiring costly physician “collaborative practice” agreements. Community Health Concern: Residents in Edwards say discolored water and recurring boil-water notices are ongoing, with a recent advisory tied to a water main break.

Midwives vs. state rules: Black midwives are suing Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi, arguing regulations that require collaborative physician agreements limit access to culturally congruent maternal care—at a time when Black women face much higher pregnancy-related death rates. Medicaid work requirements: CMS released new rules that could add work, education, or community engagement requirements for many Medicaid expansion adults starting Jan. 1, 2027, while listing major exemptions. Rural health support: Scene Health rolled out a new guide focused on medication adherence support as part of the Rural Health Transformation push, aiming to reduce avoidable hospitalizations and improve chronic disease management. Mississippi Guard healthcare: Gov. Tate Reeves signed a law requiring Mississippi to pay TRICARE premium costs for eligible National Guard members, a long-sought change meant to improve coverage and retention. Food access in Jackson: Delta Harvest Neighborhood Market is launching at Jackson Medical Mall (starting June 4), accepting EBT and partnering with local groups to boost fresh-food access and community connection. Local public health wins: Meridian’s Freshwater Division earned a perfect state inspection score and won a statewide taste competition, advancing to nationals. Safety and health emergencies: A Clay County shooting left a woman dead, and DeSoto County investigators are looking into a child drowning in a neighborhood lake.