AGP Executive Report

Opioid Treatment Access: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4M NIH grant to expand a primary-care model for opioid use disorder treatment across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia, pairing prescribing support and mentorship with outcome tracking. Clinical Tools for Care Teams: Ohio University Libraries says it will add UpToDate access starting July 1, giving students and clinicians point-of-care decision support. Healthcare Fraud Crackdown: A Westlake physician was sentenced for her role in a $1.8M “click-and-sign” Medicare fraud scheme using electronic signatures to authorize bogus bills. ACA Coverage Fight: A federal judge vacated major CMS Affordable Care Act rule provisions tied to reenrollment penalties and subsidy reconciliation, while other reporting highlights steep 2026 marketplace enrollment drops after enhanced tax credits expired. Local Health Infrastructure: Gov. DeWine signed Ohio’s $3.7B capital budget bill, including funding for behavioral health hospitals, youth specialty care, and mental health system building. Community Wellness Innovation: OneQuest Health launched a new OneQuest Health Wellness division and an EAP test pilot aimed at proactive whole-person support for employers. Public Health & Safety: Severe storms hit the Warren area, damaging homes and power lines, while Winton Lake water activities were shut down due to high E. coli levels.

Food Safety: The FDA upgraded an Alfredo sauce recall to its highest risk level (Class I) after possible Salmonella contamination tied to a dry milk powder ingredient; the recall covers 913 cases distributed in 41 states. Allergy Alert: A separate FDA recall update covers more than 500,000 packages of Aldi Park St. Deli Macaroni & Cheese due to a possible undeclared allergen (soy lecithin). Teen Health Warning: Poison control centers report a spike in Benadryl misuse tied to the “Benadryl Challenge,” with calls about teen-only exposures more than doubling in early 2026. Community Health & Prevention: A tick-prep guide highlights Ohio’s main tick types and how to reduce bites this summer. Local Wellness Angle: Gardening is spotlighted as a bone-health booster, with digging and lifting offering weight-bearing activity that supports stronger bones. Ohio University Health Care: Ohio University researchers won a major NIH grant to expand opioid use disorder treatment support in primary care across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia. Care Access Tools: Ohio University Libraries is adding UpToDate for clinicians starting July 1.

Food Safety: FDA issued a Class I recall for Alfredo sauce sold in 41 states, including Ohio, after a dry milk powder ingredient was linked to possible salmonella contamination; affected lots and best-by dates were listed, and consumers are told not to eat the product. Public Health & Prevention: UVA Health researchers launched the weSIPsmarter digital program to cut sugary drink intake among young children and families, rolling it out through Head Start sites across multiple states including Ohio. Opioid Treatment Access: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4 million NIH grant to expand a primary-care model for prescribing medications for opioid use disorder, scaling to about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia with outcome tracking. Clinical Care & Evidence: Ohio University Libraries will add UpToDate access starting July 1 for point-of-care clinical decision support. Community Health: Grand Lake Health System hosted its fourth annual “Children’s Wellness Day” in Ohio, with screenings and activities focused on healthier eating, hydration, and development. Health Policy: A federal appeals court upheld prison sentences for Michigan and Ohio pharmacists tied to a $13M fraud ring. Environment & Health Equity: Bexley residents in a former landfill area face contamination concerns (lead, arsenic, chromium) with limited city tools to force cleanup or require landlord disclosure.

Public Health & Food Safety: The FDA issued a highest-risk (Class I) recall for Alfredo sauce sold in 41 states after a dry milk powder ingredient was flagged for possible salmonella contamination. Nutrition & Cancer Research: New findings at a major oncology meeting link ultra-processed foods and modern lifestyle factors to early-onset colorectal cancer, with researchers pointing to distinct tumor biology in younger patients. Supplements & Brain Health: A large study reports regular glucosamine use is associated with higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia progression. Community Health & Prevention: Jackson County will run mosquito fogging in Oak Hill on June 22 and July 14 to reduce insect populations around parks. Local Care Access: Ohio University says it will add UpToDate access for its community starting July 1, expanding point-of-care clinical guidance for students and clinicians. Mental Health Support: A Washington County event called “Hey man, you matter” aims to reduce stigma and connect men to mental health resources. Health-Related Safety: Ohio State Highway Patrol reports fatal and serious crashes in Mansfield and Auglaize County, underscoring ongoing road safety risks.

Mental Health & Men’s Support: A Washington County, Ohio event called “Hey man, you matter” is pushing back against stigma by encouraging men to talk about depression and suicidal thoughts and connect with local resources. Public Safety (Roads): An Auglaize County crash left one motorcyclist dead and two others seriously hurt after an SUV turned into the motorcycle’s path; investigators are still looking into what happened. Public Safety (Violence): Cuyahoga Falls police say an 18-year-old has been charged in a fatal, domestic-related shooting; authorities say there’s no threat to the public. Food Safety Recall: The FDA is warning about a recall of Farm Rich Pizza Cheese Crunchers in 21 states, including Ohio, after concerns that the frozen snack may contain metal pieces. Community Health Research (Ohio University): Ohio University researchers won a major NIH grant to expand opioid use disorder treatment support in primary care across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia, aiming to close the gap between research and real-world prescribing. Clinical Tools: Ohio University Libraries says it will add UpToDate access starting July 1 for students and clinicians using Ohio credentials.

Water Safety Alert: Great Parks shut down all water activities at Winton Lake after a sewage leak and elevated E. coli levels, with handwashing stations posted and fishing/kayaking/paddleboarding paused while crews flush and repair the damaged pipe. Public Health & Community Care: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4M NIH grant to expand opioid use disorder treatment support in primary care across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia, aiming to close the gap between evidence and real-world prescribing. Local Preparedness: Columbiana County emergency officials reported strong FEMA drill results for a radiological emergency plan tied to Beaver Valley Nuclear Power Station, highlighting ongoing readiness in the 10-mile zone. Mental Health Outreach: In Hubbard, a nonprofit expands “Zell Yeah Designs,” using motorcycle patch sewing to open conversations about suicide prevention and post-loss support. Health & Wellness Access: East Liverpool’s Thompson Park Pool sets a June 17 opening, with local hospital auxiliary funding covering free passes for eligible students. Wildlife Disease Watch: Hamilton County confirmed rabies in a bat, the second case in the city in about three weeks. Workforce Snapshot: Ohio unemployment claims rose in the latest reporting period, with state jobless claims and national filings both ticking up.

Opioid Treatment Access: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4M NIH grant to expand a primary-care model that helps clinicians prescribe medication for opioid use disorder, scaling from a pilot to about 40 clinics across Ohio and West Virginia. Clinical Resources: Ohio University Libraries is adding UpToDate access starting July 1, giving students and clinicians point-of-care guidance across medical fields. Medicaid Fallout: A DeWine Medicaid fraud crackdown is leaving some families with high-needs children without direct support services, raising concerns about how “metrics” enforcement affects care continuity. Food Safety: Fry Pie Factory issued a voluntary recall of Pepperoni Rolls in Ohio and parts of West Virginia due to misbranding (undeclared milk) and refrigeration process issues; also, local food inspections flagged missing handwashing signage and hygiene problems. Blood Supply: The American Red Cross is urging Ohio-area donors to give blood or platelets as summer travel drives a sharp supply drop. PFAS Fight: EPA is taking comments on proposed PFAS drinking-water rule rollbacks, while a court fight over PFAS discharges into the Ohio River continues. Public Health & Safety: Ohio’s “Operation Spring Cleaning” led to 122 arrests in a statewide human trafficking crackdown, including referrals to health and social services for survivors.

Opioid Treatment Expansion: Ohio University researcher Berkeley Franz won a nearly $4M NIH grant to help primary care clinics prescribe medication for opioid use disorder, scaling a pilot model across about 40 Ohio and West Virginia clinics. Mental Wellness Through Literacy: Ohio’s Department of Behavioral Health launched “Reading for Resiliency,” partnering with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library to use shared reading as a prevention tool for family connectedness and lifelong mental wellness. LGBTQ+ Health Data Push: Greater Columbus INSIGHT is collecting local health and well-being data on LGBTQ+ adults to close gaps left by missing surveillance. Care Access Under Threat: A House rider would block FY 2027 funding for CMS’s AI-driven WISeR prior authorization program, but WISeR is still operating for now in six states. Public Health Q&A: A “To Your Good Health” column tackles MMR decisions for adults on biologic meds, emphasizing that proven measles history can change vaccine needs. Food Safety: FDA updated a frozen pizza recall in 21 states tied to possible metal contamination, with families facing a delayed formal risk classification. Community Safety & Wellness: Ohio ODNR is investigating a June 10 drowning at Alum Creek State Park; meanwhile, local groups are organizing blood drives as “trauma season” ramps up.

Opioid Treatment Access: Ohio University researcher Berkeley Franz won a nearly $4M NIH grant to expand a primary-care model for prescribing medication for opioid use disorder across about 40 Ohio and West Virginia clinics, aiming to close the gap between proven treatment and real-world practice. Clinical Support for Providers: Ohio University Libraries will add UpToDate access starting July 1, giving clinicians and students point-of-care decision support via web or mobile login. Oral Health Awareness: P&G and the American Academy of Family Physicians released survey findings showing 76% of Americans care about oral health, but only 3% link it to whole-body health—highlighting missed education around connections like heart disease and diabetes. Medicaid Nursing Home Fix: Ohio lawmakers approved an $875M Medicaid payment to correct a yearslong formula error that shortchanged nursing homes after an Ohio Supreme Court ruling. Public Health & Safety: A Cincinnati firefighter died after a duty-related medical illness, and a child was hospitalized after being hit by a car in Colerain Township.

Opioid Care Expansion: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4M NIH grant to scale a primary-care model for opioid use disorder treatment across about 40 Ohio and West Virginia clinics, aiming to close the gap between proven meds and real-world prescribing. Maternal & Baby Health: A Dr. Roach Q&A highlights whooping cough protection in pregnancy, stressing that the key step is getting the Tdap vaccine in the second trimester (breastfeeding alone offers limited protection). Medicaid Oversight & Nursing Home Payments: Ohio lawmakers approved an $875M payment package after the Ohio Supreme Court said the state shortchanged nursing homes, while other coverage shows lawmakers tightening Medicaid personal care oversight amid fraud concerns. Election Rules: Ohio Republicans advanced a constitutional photo ID amendment for in-person voting on the November ballot and passed rules requiring a copy of ID for absentee voting. Public Health Research: Bowling Green State University’s George Bullerjahn helped shape a global research priority plan to prevent toxic algal blooms, a threat tied to toxins and past Toledo water crisis impacts. Local Health Access: Ohio University Libraries will add UpToDate access starting July 1 for students and clinicians. Community Safety: Police and courts in the region continue dog-attack and animal cruelty cases, including appeals over “vicious” dog designations and a plea deal in a starvation case.

Public Health & Safety: Toledo police issued an arrest warrant for 20-year-old Ka Nye Taylor and released photos of a suspected second shooter after a weekend festival shooting that wounded 12 people; investigators say the violence grew from a dispute between rival groups, with rewards offered through Crime Stoppers and the U.S. Marshals. State Policy: Ohio lawmakers are set to vote on the state’s first data center rules, including limits on sales tax breaks, new water-use standards, and requirements tied to connection costs—an issue that has split industry groups and neighbors. Healthcare Access & Innovation: A new aquatic therapy facility in Hubbard expands rehab options for chronic pain, mobility issues, and fall-risk patients, adding a dedicated therapy pool and more pediatric care. Local Health Infrastructure: Geauga Public Health’s state-mandated operation and maintenance rollout is moving into Phase 4 for Chardon Township septic systems, with more residents expected to receive notices. Wellness & Prevention: A Cleveland-area dietitian shares heart-healthy grocery tips, emphasizing fiber, healthy fats, and watching added sugar and sodium. Global Health Investment: Maharashtra signed an MoU with Cleveland Clinic and partners to build a 250-acre Navi Mumbai International MediCity, aiming to create jobs and an integrated healthcare research ecosystem.

Public Health & Safety: Toledo police say the Old West End Festival shooting that left 12 people injured stemmed from a dispute between rival groups, with gunfire exchanged after a chase and fight; investigators are still searching for suspects. Violence as a Health Issue: Dayton leaders are working to secure state funding and expand violence-fighting strategies, framing violence interruption as a community-wide public health crisis. Food & Supplement Safety: The FDA expanded a Salmonella outbreak recall tied to moringa leaf powder supplements, now linked to 119 illnesses across 36 states, with 32 hospitalizations. Cancer Screening Access: Ohio State researchers report unmet health-related social needs—especially housing instability and transportation barriers—are linked to lower colorectal cancer screening rates, with the biggest impact for ages 50–64. Local Wellness & Care: AAA7’s long-term care ombudsman program highlights volunteer roles that help seniors access rights and reduce isolation. Ohio Health Tech: VA is rolling out new electronic health record systems in Ohio and Kentucky. Community Health Tips: Nationwide Children’s Hospital finds moderate screen time after concussion may speed recovery compared with too little or too much. Health & Daily Living: A “Dear Dr. Roach” Q&A explains why constipation can linger after colonoscopy and when to consider medication causes or probiotics. Wellness in the Community: A Lisbon cyclist will pilot a blind athlete on an 863-mile Race Across the West, spotlighting inclusive endurance sports.

Local Health Access: The Christ Hospital’s Liberty Township Birthing Center opened Cincinnati’s first breast milk dispensary, partnering with the OhioHealth Mothers’ Milk Bank so families with a prescription can get pasteurized, screened donor milk closer to home. Health Care Workforce & Training: Gov. DeWine, Lt. Gov. Tressel and JobsOhio announced a $300M JobsOhio Experiential Learning Initiative to help Ohio employers upskill and hire for in-demand technical roles, including healthcare. Patient Safety & Care Quality: A West Chester nursing home lost a lawsuit after a jury found it caused an 83-year-old resident’s death in 2024, according to court reporting. Public Health & Prevention: Dermatologists warn shoppers to be careful buying Korean sunscreen online, citing safety concerns and urging people to check what they’re getting. Community Wellness Support: Game Changers and the Trumbull Memorial Health Foundation launched a health and wellness scholarship aimed at expanding careers beyond traditional medical paths. Health Tech in Ohio: 4U Solutions and Headsafe US partnered to expand access in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia to Nurochek, an FDA-cleared portable EEG tool that can aid concussion diagnosis. Fraud Watch: Ohio Auditor of State’s investigators pursued a former Jackson County Combined General Health District employee for theft tied to double-paid hours across public jobs. Safety Update: Toledo officials say nine of 12 people injured in a festival shooting have been released from hospitals, with no arrests yet and a dispute between rival groups cited as a possible spark.

Medicaid Caregiver Fight: Ohio lawmakers removed a proposal that would have banned Medicaid payments to paid family caregivers after disabled residents and advocates pushed back hard at the Statehouse. Public Health Policy: Ohio lawmakers also reversed course on home healthcare limits after backlash, keeping more people able to receive care at home. Maternal Mental Health: A new look at postpartum depression highlights how rates have risen and why it’s more than “baby blues,” with untreated cases linked to serious risks. Emergency Preparedness: After the Toledo Old West End Festival shooting, local doctors stressed the value of free “Stop the Bleed” training for life-saving bleeding control. Air Quality: Toledo officials explained how ground-level ozone forms in summer and who should take extra precautions. Community Health Services: Southwoods Health marked 30 years of expanding access to care in the Mahoning Valley, including surgery, imaging, rehab, home health, and sleep medicine. Sports & Health Tech: Research on AI in healthcare found transparency can boost trust, but higher diagnostic accuracy may not always increase patient trust. EMS Week: Gov. DeWine signed a bill creating “EMS Week in Ohio” to spotlight emergency medical services.

Public Health & Access: A new study presented at SLEEP 2026 finds rural Ohio patients at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea are less likely to be referred for evaluation than urban patients, even after accounting for individual and neighborhood factors—highlighting a referral gap that could delay diagnosis and treatment. Infectious Disease Watch: Ohio tick risk is rising as tick populations expand, with experts pointing to growing Lyme disease numbers and urging long sleeves, repellent, and regular tick checks. Community Safety: Toledo police continue a manhunt after a shooting near the Old West End Festival left 12 people wounded; officials say it appears at least two people fired and may have been “shooting at each other,” with victims reported stable and improving. Health Policy & Fraud: Ohio and federal partners announced a crackdown on SNAP benefit fraud, issuing violations to 19 retailers across Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus. Local Health Systems: Cleveland EMS is shifting toward prevention and community-connected care, expanding follow-ups after 911 calls and support for frequent users and chronic conditions. Healthcare Coverage: A KFF update reviews how Title X and Medicaid funding pressures have affected Planned Parenthood clinic access since 2025.

Medicaid & Caregiving: Gov. DeWine signed emergency rules to tighten Medicaid provider revalidation, aiming to curb fraud—while disabled Ohioans and family caregivers warn proposed limits on paying family caregivers for help with daily tasks could leave people stuck in bed. Public Health Policy: The DOJ reached a resolution with Cleveland Clinic over pediatric “gender-affirming care,” including commitments not to provide sex-rejecting procedures for minors. Juvenile Justice: DeWine and DYS broke ground on four smaller, downsized juvenile corrections facilities in Northeast Ohio to replace a large Cuyahoga Hills site, citing safer, more personalized treatment. Safety & Health Access: USPS launched a “Dog Bite Awareness” campaign after thousands of dog attacks on mail carriers, urging customers to secure pets during delivery hours. Local Health & Wellness Community: Riverfest celebrated the Mahoning River’s environmental rebound, and a Salem soap box derby highlighted inclusive recreation for kids with special needs. Ohio Crime With Health Impact: Police continued searching after a Toledo street festival shooting left 12 injured, including two in critical condition, with investigators saying gunmen may have been firing at each other.