AGP Executive Report

Idaho Health Systems: HCA Healthcare’s Mountain Division (including West Valley Medical Center in Caldwell and Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls) earned Modern Healthcare’s “Top Health Systems” honor for a fourth straight year, citing lower inpatient mortality and fewer infections. Public Health Monitoring: Boise and Coeur d’Alene are using wastewater testing to track respiratory and gastrointestinal viruses (including emerging threats like measles and hepatitis A) and share results with local health officials. Medicare Fraud Watch: Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador warned seniors about Medicare phone scams using spoofed numbers to steal Medicare and personal info, urging residents to hang up and report suspicious calls. Access to Care & Community Health: Blaine County is nearing approval for a St. Luke’s medical office project, while Blaine County’s updated plan aims to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions on major roads. Senior Wellness Outdoors: “Take Me Fishing” returned to Hagerman, pairing seniors with Idaho Fish and Game support for a day of fishing and connection. Health Policy Debate: A new Medicaid rule requiring able adults to work drew objections, with CMS setting interim steps ahead of Jan. 1 implementation. Food Safety: Coverage continues around raw milk risks and outbreaks, including ongoing investigations tied to contaminated dairy.

Medicare Scam Alert: Idaho AG Raúl Labrador warned seniors about Medicare phone scams that spoof local numbers and pressure victims for Medicare and Social Security details, noting Medicare won’t call to request sensitive info. Animal Health & Food Safety: Idaho rolled out new animal entry and travel requirements after New World screwworm detections in Texas and New Mexico, requiring veterinary inspection certificates and tighter timing for warm-blooded animals entering the state. Forensic Nursing Support: Eastern Idaho’s forensic nurse team (FERN) is seeking community backing to sustain 24/7 specialized care for victims of sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, and strangulation. Road Safety: A Rathdrum area crash on SH41 killed a 16-year-old, and a separate Pocatello intersection crash sent five children to the hospital after a two-car collision. Health Policy & Access: Idaho’s rural health push continues as DHW posts new Rural Health Transformation funding opportunities. Community Wellness: Auburn Crest Home Health and Hospice hosted “Take Me Fishing,” bringing more than 150 seniors back outdoors with help from Idaho Fish and Game.

Rural Health Funding: Idaho’s DHW posted the first round of Rural Health Transformation funding opportunities, aiming to expand access and support local care delivery. Maternal Care Boost: Rep. Mike Simpson announced $750,000 for Madison Memorial Hospital in Rexburg to expand diagnostic imaging and maternal-fetal medicine, including CT and ultrasound upgrades. Abortion Court Fight: A federal bench trial in Boise continues over Idaho’s abortion ban, with high-risk pregnancy specialists arguing the law blocks medically necessary care. Public Health & Food Safety: Idaho health officials are investigating two raw-milk–linked outbreaks that have sickened nearly 60 people, with campylobacteriosis among confirmed cases. Animal Health Rules: Idaho tightened travel requirements for animals entering from New World screwworm areas in Texas and New Mexico, shortening the vet certificate window to five days and urging pet owners to avoid travel when possible. Workforce & Care Quality: Clinicians at major Washington health systems filed to unionize, citing patient-care strain from restructuring and staffing changes that reduce visit time. Community Health Story: A new clinic opened near Canyon Square in Idaho, pitching services like nutrition, weight management, diabetes education, and diabetes-focused support.

Rural Health Funding: Idaho DHW posted its first round of Rural Health Transformation Fund subgrant opportunities, including maternal/perinatal/child health access support and a separate project management support contract, with the state needing to award first-year money by Oct. 30 to avoid clawbacks. Abortion in Court: A federal bench trial in Boise is underway in a lawsuit challenging Idaho’s abortion ban; high-risk pregnancy specialists testified on when care may be medically necessary, and the case is set to continue next week. Public Health & Food Safety: Idaho officials are investigating a raw-milk illness situation after 60 people were reported sick, as the state also tightens animal entry rules following New World screwworm detections. Medicaid Spending Watch: New data show Medicaid claims for durable medical equipment rose in Twin Falls (to $624,866 in 2024) and medical/surgical supplies jumped in Chubbuck (up 55.4% to $140,888). Senior Scam Alert: Idaho AG Raúl Labrador warned seniors about Medicare phone scams that spoof local numbers and try to collect sensitive information. Community Health Access: Idaho Food Bank recognized Joint School Dist. 171’s food pantry and announced summer pantry kickoffs for weekly youth/family meals.

Rural Health Funding: Idaho has posted its first federal rural healthcare subgrants tied to the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” including maternal and child health access support, with the state required to award funds by Oct. 30. Public Health & Food Safety: A Salmonella outbreak linked to moringa supplements has expanded to 119 illnesses across 36 states, prompting FDA recall updates that include additional lots. Medicare Scam Warning: Idaho AG Raúl Labrador is warning seniors about Medicare phone scams that use spoofed numbers to steal Medicare and personal info. Animal Health: Idaho is tightening animal entry rules after New World screwworm was detected in Texas and New Mexico, requiring veterinary inspection and documentation for animals from affected zones. Youth Mental Health: Boise-based Ataraxis is extending its partnership with the I Love This Life Foundation for school-based resilience programming reaching more than 85,000 students. Local Care & Community: RecorGroup’s charity golf event in Eagle raised $20,000 for St. Luke’s Children’s Cancer Institute. Emergency Response: Teton County SAR coordinated an ATV rollover rescue near Packsaddle Lake, using air evacuation for advanced medical care.

Rural Health Funding: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is soliciting organizations for its first round of maternal, perinatal, and child health subgrants using $186 million from the federal “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” with a $1.2M lead-agency opportunity aimed at boosting rural obstetric readiness. Food Safety: A Salmonella outbreak tied to moringa leaf powder supplements has expanded to 119 confirmed illnesses across 36 states, with FDA/CDC updating recalls as the investigation reopens after new cases. Healthcare Workforce: Nurse practitioners and physician assistants at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, UW, and Seattle Children’s Hospital filed to unionize, citing restructuring that increases patient loads and reduces time per visit. Local Health & Community: A Boise School District mouse-infestation lawsuit was settled for $720,000, with an independent inspection required to address safety concerns. Idaho Infrastructure for Care: Idaho National Laboratory is mapping critical infrastructure dependencies—including hospitals and water treatment—around FIFA World Cup host sites to improve resilience against cyber and natural threats. Public Health Watch: FDA also issued a pet food recall over nutritional deficiency linked to thiamine (vitamin B1).

Rural health workforce: A University of Washington WWAMI program serving Idaho and four other states received a $25M endowment to expand scholarships for students committed to rural and Indigenous care, covering half tuition for 30 eligible students. Abortion access in Idaho: In a federal lawsuit over Idaho’s near-total abortion ban, maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Stacy Seyb testified he’s had to send patients out of state for medically necessary care, arguing the law allows death but not protection of health. Public health warning on raw milk: Idaho officials are investigating outbreaks tied to raw milk after nearly 60 people reported illness, renewing debate over unpasteurized dairy risks. Local health policy: Idaho Falls approved a citywide ban on kratom sales, taking effect July 1 after deaths linked to the substance. Safety and care in the community: Caldwell police reported a fatal two-vehicle crash with three juveniles injured; separate reports also note serious injury crashes and ongoing investigations. Animal health: Latah County deputies seized 66 horses near Kendrick after a months-long neglect investigation, with animals moved to safe care.

Kratom ban in Idaho Falls: The city council voted to ban kratom sales within city limits, with the ordinance set to take effect July 1. Raw milk health alert: Idaho health officials are investigating a spike in illnesses tied to unpasteurized milk; nearly 60 people have been identified sick since May 19, with campylobacteriosis among the confirmed cases. Abortion access in court: A federal trial began for an Idaho doctor seeking medical exemptions to the state’s near-total abortion ban, arguing patients need care for health risks beyond death of the mother. Uninsured kids: A new report says Idaho ranks among the highest for uninsured children under age six, with the uninsured count rising from 7,900 (2022) to 10,700 (2024). SNAP restrictions: USDA lists Idaho among states restricting SNAP purchases of non-nutritious items like soda and candy, with dates varying by state. Safety and care in the community: Caldwell’s Salvation Army Baby Haven program supports parents with infant safety, nutrition, and resources up to 24 months. Public health risk: A rabid bat was reported in Latah County, prompting caution from local health officials. KJZZ/health policy context: A broader look at how health systems and public oversight shape outcomes continues in regional coverage.

Raw Milk Outbreak: Idaho health officials say nearly 60 people have been sickened after drinking unpasteurized raw milk, with at least 45 confirmed cases of campylobacteriosis linked to two dairies in northern and southern Idaho. Insurance Access: A new Georgetown report finds Idaho ranks among the highest in the nation for uninsured kids under age six, with uninsured numbers rising from 7,900 (2022) to 10,700 (2024). Rural Healthcare Pressure: A new report warns 756 rural hospitals are at risk of closing, including 323 at immediate risk, as payer reimbursement delays and compliance burdens strain small Idaho facilities. Housing Affordability: A Sen. Mike Crapo survey of 5,000+ Idahoans highlights renters’ upfront cost burdens and homeowners’ long-term worries about property taxes and insurance, with some lawmakers saying state rules limit local fixes. Local Health & Aging Support: Cambridge, Idaho is set to renovate its senior center after receiving a $245,000 Community Development Block Grant. Legal/Policy Watch: A federal judge is set to hear arguments in a lawsuit challenging Idaho’s abortion ban, and Idaho lawmakers approved ballot language aimed at blocking voters from legalizing marijuana.

Raw Milk Outbreak: Idaho health officials say 60 people have been sickened after drinking unpasteurized milk tied to two dairies, with at least 45 confirmed cases of campylobacteriosis; investigators are still tracing batches and urging people to avoid raw dairy. Road Safety Tragedies: A 16-year-old girl died after a high-speed crash on SH-41 near Rathdrum, hitting a traffic light pole at Wyoming Avenue; police say alcohol or drugs aren’t believed to be factors. Senior Health Access: Cambridge’s senior center is set for major upgrades after a $245,000 Idaho Community Development Block Grant, supporting meals, transportation, home care, screenings, and home-delivered nutrition. Local Care Updates: Northwest Specialty Hospital says it has launched a new Northwest Hand to Shoulder Center and introduced a thumb implant procedure for thumb arthritis, aiming for faster recovery and better strength. Housing Affordability: Sen. Mike Crapo’s office released a 2025 survey showing Idahoans—especially renters—struggling with housing costs and calling for more housing types.

Raw Milk Health Alert (Idaho): Idaho health officials are investigating a raw milk outbreak that has sickened nearly 60 people since May 19, with 45 confirmed cases of campylobacteriosis linked to two milking operations in northern and southern Idaho; officials are now tracking which batches may be responsible and reminding residents that pasteurized milk avoids these risks. Nursing Home Quality Watch (Idaho): CMS data show Life Care Center of Boise earned a 5-star overall rating in Q1 2026, while Lakeside Rehabilitation and Care Center in Coeur d’Alene area received a 1-star rating and incurred fines—another reminder to check staffing and inspection results. Period Health Study (Idaho-linked brand): A new study found that switching from tampons to a menstrual cup or disc (Saalt, an Idaho-based company) improved symptoms for 78% of women across three cycles, including cramping and fatigue. Policy & Courts (National, Idaho impact): The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to rule on Idaho’s transgender athletes ban, alongside major gun-law cases—outcomes could shape sports and health-related policy nationwide. Access & Costs (National): Cigna is pulling out of Florida’s Obamacare marketplace, raising fears of a “death spiral” as premiums rise and insurers exit. Public Safety (Local): A 16-year-old died after a crash on SH-41 near Wyoming Avenue in Rathdrum; Idaho State Police say seatbelt use was reported and alcohol/drugs weren’t believed to be factors.

Raw Milk Outbreak: Idaho health officials are investigating two raw-milk–linked outbreaks after nearly 60 people reported illness since May 19; 45 tested positive for campylobacteriosis, and investigators are working with two milking operations to identify “batches of concern.” Nursing Home Quality Watch: CMS data show Life Care Center of Boise earned a 5-star rating in Q1 2026, while Lakeside Rehabilitation and Care Center in Coeur d’Alene area received a 1-star rating and $220,832 in fines—highlighting sharp differences in long-term care performance across Idaho. Menstrual Product Study: A new study found 78% of women reported symptom improvements after switching from tampons to a reusable menstrual cup or disc, with benefits reported for cramps, fatigue, headaches, bloating and more. Local Health Policy: Idaho Falls approved a city ordinance banning kratom sales effective July 1, with officials planning an awareness campaign alongside police and schools. Access & Safety: ITD will fully close Sandpoint’s Long Bridge pedestrian path indefinitely due to structural deterioration, while noting the vehicular bridge remains open. Health Care Costs & Coverage: New Medicaid spending figures show rising “Temporary National Codes (Non-Medicare)” claims in Nampa and Rexburg for 2024, reflecting continued growth in certain service categories.

Raw Milk Outbreak: Idaho health officials say nearly 60 people have gotten sick after drinking unpasteurized raw milk since May 19, with at least 45 testing positive for campylobacteriosis; investigators are tracking two likely sources in northern and southern Idaho and urging people to avoid raw dairy. Local Health & Safety: Idaho Transportation Department is fully closing Sandpoint’s Long Bridge pedestrian path indefinitely after inspections found significant structural deterioration, while noting the nearby vehicle bridge remains open. Nursing Home Oversight: Lakeside Rehabilitation and Care Center in Coeur d’Alene received a 1-star CMS rating for Q1 2026, below Idaho’s 3.2 average, and reported $220,832 in fines across two penalties. Policy & Access: Planned Parenthood says some clinics will offer “just in case” abortion pills in advance, aiming to expand access amid ongoing restrictions. Idaho Courts & Rights: A federal judge is weighing whether to temporarily block Idaho’s transgender bathroom ban, with arguments focused on how enforcement would work. Community Health Workforce: UW School of Medicine received a $25 million gift to expand rural and Indigenous medical training scholarships across the WWAMI region, including Idaho.

Raw Milk Health Alert: Idaho health officials say nearly 60 people have fallen ill after drinking raw milk since May 19, with at least 45 testing positive for campylobacteriosis; the state is investigating two likely-linked outbreaks and working with producers to identify and fix contamination sources. Kratom Ban in Idaho Falls: Idaho Falls City Council unanimously approved an ordinance banning kratom sales effective July 1, with police and schools expected to run an awareness campaign. Trans Bathroom Ban in Court: A federal judge is weighing whether to temporarily block Idaho’s criminal transgender bathroom ban (HB 752) as attorneys argue about safety and enforcement for private businesses. Rural Medical Education Funding: The UW School of Medicine received a $25 million gift to create a rural and Indigenous-focused medical student scholarship program serving the WWAMI region, including Idaho. Local Access & Safety: ITD will fully close Sandpoint’s Long Bridge pedestrian path indefinitely due to structural deterioration, while also noting options to help people who rely on the crossing for work and healthcare. Workplace Injury at INL: Idaho National Laboratory confirmed an employee was injured after a weapon they carried discharged on the job; the incident is under investigation. Policy & Care Access: Planned Parenthood’s affiliate says it will let some Idaho-area patients obtain “just in case” abortion pills in advance via in-person or remote appointments.

Idaho LGBTQ+ rights under pressure: A Boise medical-provider family says relentless anti-LGBTQ+ legislation is pushing them to consider leaving Idaho, as the U.S. Supreme Court weighs trans athlete ban challenges tied to Idaho’s 2020 law. Nursing home quality watch: CMS data show Kootenai County for-profit facilities Ironwood Rehabilitation and Care Center and Coeur D Alene Health of Cascadia both earned a 1-star overall rating in early 2026, far below Idaho’s 3.2 average, with Coeur D Alene also reporting fines and penalties. Public health—kratom crackdown: Idaho Falls unanimously passed a ban on kratom sales effective July 1 after local health officials and the coroner linked the substance to multiple deaths. Diabetes accountability: A Baker City father whose 10-year-old son died from Type 1 diabetes is seeking a special prosecutor and disqualification of the district attorney, alleging failures in how the case was handled. Water stress: Even with Idaho’s wettest April on record, experts warn low snowpack from the driest winter since 1934 may still strain irrigation and suburban water supplies. Rabies alert: Public health officials confirmed a rabid bat in Latah County, urging caution around wild animals and unvaccinated pets.

Raw Milk Outbreak: Idaho health officials say nearly 60 people have fallen ill after drinking raw milk since May 19, with at least 45 testing positive for campylobacteriosis; investigators are tracking two suspected sources across northern and southern Idaho and warn more cases may surface. Rabies Alert: Public Health Idaho North Central District confirmed a rabid bat in Latah County, urging residents not to touch bats, to seek medical care after any bat exposure, and to keep pets up to date on rabies vaccines. Food Access: Chobani is expanding its summer food program in Magic Valley for a second year, doubling to 96,000 meals and distributing weekly food bags through mid-August in Filer, Jerome, Twin Falls and Shoshone. Workplace/Community Health: A Boise forum highlighted how Idaho’s July 1 transgender public-bathroom law could affect employers and businesses, with attorneys warning of uncertainty and potential complaint handling challenges. Public Safety: Idaho Falls roadwork begins at Hitt Road and Lincoln Road, closing the right northbound lane through end of August near the Grand Peaks medical area.