AGP Executive Report

Public Health Alert: RIDOH and DEM say Jamestown Canyon Virus has been detected in Tiverton, with additional West Nile Virus detections in several communities; officials note there’s no vaccine or specific treatment for people, so residents should take mosquito precautions. Water Safety: RIDOH/DEM also issued a high-risk advisory to avoid Blackamore Pond in Cranston due to harmful algae blooms, warning against swimming, drinking untreated water, or eating fish from the area. Healthcare Access: Rhode Island Blood Center will open its first Massachusetts donor center in Swansea on Aug. 11, aiming to ease regional blood supply shortages after a recent local inventory emergency. Mental Health & Tech: A national spotlight on “AI therapists” raises concerns about life-threatening risks when chatbots give unmonitored medical advice. Infectious Disease Watch: A tick-and-Lyme explainer highlights that not every tick carries Lyme, while ticks can spread multiple illnesses. Community & Wellness: Ocean State Job Lot kicks off back-to-school with free kids’ clothing and shoes via a gift-card promotion, and a Healthy Community Fund grant program opens for nonprofits.

Mosquito-borne alerts: RIDOH and DEM confirmed Jamestown Canyon Virus in Tiverton and also reported additional West Nile Virus detections in Cranston, East Providence, North Providence, Providence and Woonsocket, with EEE not found in the latest mosquito samples. Public health guidance: RIDOH/DEM also issued a high-risk advisory to avoid Blackamore Pond in Cranston due to harmful algae blooms, warning against swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, drinking untreated water, or eating fish from the area. Health data breach: Brown Health confirmed an identity-protection offering after a major patient data breach tied to Lifespan Physician Group of Massachusetts in Dartmouth, affecting more than 311,000 people. Mental health research: The VA launched a trial testing psilocybin for treatment-resistant depression in veterans, including those with PTSD. Community safety: A federal earmark will fund a new continuous sidewalk along Massasoit Avenue in Barrington to improve pedestrian and bike safety for students. Workplace/health policy: Rhode Island’s Cannabis Control Commission reopened retailer applications after court action and state law changes reshaped the licensing process. Foodborne outbreak watch: The CDC says Cyclospora has spread to 47 states with nearly 23,000 cases nationwide. Heat risk: A heat advisory warned Rhode Island and nearby areas to hydrate, limit sun exposure, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Public Health & Safety: Rhode Island regulators say Oakland and Conimicut beaches in Warwick can reopen after bacteria levels returned to safe ranges, with monitoring continuing through Labor Day. Workplace Health: Wakefield CVS pharmacy staff walked out after a union strike-sanction vote, citing staffing shortages and patient-safety concerns. Mental Health Tech: Rhode Island is among states tightening rules on AI “therapists,” aiming to limit claims that chatbots are licensed clinicians and to scrutinize use with minors. Injury Prevention: Barrington police warn e-scooter and e-bike crashes are driving a surge in emergency visits, urging families to restrict use and improve helmet safety. Community & Aging: Seniors at Elmhurst Rehab and Healthcare and Heritage Hills got a wheelchair roller-skating night as part of bucket-list programming. Environment & Health: A Rhode Island-focused debate continues over heat and housing cooling needs, as extreme heat exposure rises and protections lag. Health Care Integrity: A national push highlights voter concern about fraud in government health programs as a cost-saving priority.

Workplace Health: Experts say menopause and perimenopause symptoms can hit during peak career years, but many workplaces still lack training and a culture where employees feel safe asking for support. Food Safety: A CDC-tracked salmonella surge linked to eggs, jalapeños, and backyard animals is sickening people across multiple states, with officials urging extra caution this summer. Public Safety (Mobility): Barrington police warn e-bike and e-scooter crashes are sending more kids to the ER, citing higher injury severity and head trauma concerns. Toxic Chemicals: AG Rob Bonta joined an amicus brief urging courts to uphold a rule phasing out trichloroethylene, a chemical tied to serious health risks. Infectious Disease Watch: Health officials report a fourth “rabbit fever” case in New York’s Suffolk County, reminding residents that tularemia is spread via ticks and deer flies, not person-to-person. Healthcare Labor: Unionized CVS pharmacy workers move closer to a strike over staffing shortages and burnout, including in Rhode Island. Local Health Policy: Rhode Island AG Peter Neronha filed lawsuits targeting federal changes to Affordable Care Act rules, arguing they could raise costs and reduce coverage. Community Health & Equity: Rhode Island’s Latino population is rising faster than voter rolls, leaving gaps in bilingual election access and participation. Health Tech/Industry: Vertikal6 earned a spot on Providence Business News’ fastest-growing list, highlighting growth in cybersecurity and AI services.

Child Mental Health & Parenting: A new commentary warns that too many kids—especially girls—are forced to grow up too fast, describing “parentification” and the long-term harm when children take on adult caregiving roles. Gun Violence & Suicide: CDC-linked analysis finds U.S. shooting deaths fell for a fourth straight year in 2025, driven by fewer gun homicides, while gun suicides hit a record high. Public Health Leadership: Brown-trained physician Dr. Erica G. Schwartz is confirmed to lead the CDC, bringing military and federal public health experience. Food Safety: Parents of berry-aged children are urged to watch for cyclosporiasis after a growing outbreak tied to fresh produce. Rhode Island Health & Fraud: A Rhode Island Department of Human Services supervisor pleaded guilty in SNAP fraud, admitting misuse of EBT access and PIN changes affecting vulnerable recipients. Housing for Seniors: A policy piece argues Rhode Island and other communities need stronger local plans so older adults can stay housed and healthy. Local Health Care Real Estate: A Cranston medical office building leased to Brown Health sold for $4.2M after a 2025 expansion. Infectious Disease Watch: Candida auris remains a concern as drug-resistant fungus cases rise in parts of the U.S., including Nevada and California. Community Wellness: Tiverton Public Library’s August schedule highlights wellness-focused programs and events.

SNAP Fraud in Rhode Island: A former R.I. Department of Human Services supervisor, Nadine Jean Baptiste, pleaded guilty to misusing her role to access SNAP EBT card info, run unauthorized balance checks, and alter PINs—impacting juveniles, people who were homeless, and incarcerated recipients, with more than $300,000 accessed. Public Health & Safety: Rhode Island U.S. Attorney’s Office also flagged the broader case as an ongoing investigation, while Providence police identified a 59-year-old woman found dead in a vehicle on Rhode Island College campus; the medical examiner is determining the cause. Infectious Disease Watch: Candida auris, a drug-resistant fungus, continues to spread in the West; Nevada reported the most cases in the region, with California running higher than Nevada so far in 2026. Health Policy in Washington: Senate Democrats moved to restore the Endangered Species Act definition of “harm,” a fight that could affect habitat protections for threatened species. Care Access for Kids: University Orthopedics held a free fall sports physical clinic for 120+ student-athletes, aiming to ease the strain of hard-to-book primary care visits. Affordable Care Act Legal Battles: Wisconsin and other states sued to block federal changes that could raise costs and expand catastrophic plans, threatening coverage for millions. Community Health & Wellness: Rhode Island Coffee reopened after a refurbishment, touting dietary-friendly options like dairy alternatives and gluten-free products.

Drug Pricing & Competition: Michigan AG Dana Nessel joined a 43-state coalition announcing a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing and reduced competition, with trial expected in 2027 and injunctive reforms tied to approval. Care Access & Pain Control: A new randomized trial in knee replacement patients found IV lidocaine and an adductor canal nerve block led to similar opioid use at 24 hours, though the nerve block eased pain more right after surgery. Sports Medicine Access: University Orthopedics held a free fall sports physical clinic for 120+ student-athletes, aiming to reduce the usual scramble for primary care appointments before school sports. Public Health Privacy: Rhode Island AG Peter Neronha joined a lawsuit seeking to block a federal policy that would share sensitive TANF-related family data with Homeland Security. Community Health & Safety: Rhode Island State Police arrested three men after an I-95 crash and disturbance in Pawtucket, with more arrests expected as the investigation continues. Local Wellness & Prevention: Rhode Island DEM scheduled EPA-approved hydrilla treatments for Worden Pond starting Aug. 7, aimed at protecting the lake ecosystem without harming fish or disrupting recreation.

Health Care Affordability: A new WalletHub study says New York is among the worst states for health care affordability, ranking No. 39 overall and dead last on cost—highlighting how spending can rise without better outcomes. Local Hospital Spotlight: Newport Hospital’s Vanderbilt Rehabilitation Center earned the No. 1 spot in Rhode Island and the Providence metro area in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 rankings, while The Miriam Hospital stayed the top Rhode Island hospital for the 15th straight year. Community Health Leadership: Providence Community Health Centers CEO Merrill Thomas announced he’ll retire at the end of 2026. Public Health & Data Privacy: Lifespan Physicians Group is facing a reported data breach affecting 290,000+ patient records, with unauthorized access tied to a server incident in late 2025. Rhode Island Environment & Wellness: DEM says Worden Pond in South Kingstown will be treated for invasive hydrilla starting Aug. 7, with repeated treatments through November. AI in Care: States are adding “human guardrails” as lawmakers push insurers to use AI with oversight rather than letting algorithms make coverage decisions alone.

Privacy & Health Data: Lifespan Physicians Group is facing a data-breach investigation tied to unauthorized access to at least 290,000 patient records, with notifications reportedly delayed until mid-July. Public Health: Rhode Island’s West Nile risk climbed to “high” after new mosquito samples tested positive in Providence County, though no human cases have been reported this year. Access to Care: Wood River Health marked 50 years of community care and National Health Center Week, highlighting medical, dental, and behavioral health services regardless of insurance. Community Support: Sen. Dawn Euer and the RI Public Defender’s office will host a free expungement clinic and resource fair Aug. 5 in Newport to help people clear records and connect to services. Health Policy in Court: Multiple attorneys general, including Rhode Island, sued the Trump administration over tariff and ACA-related moves that could raise health costs and disrupt coverage. Workplace & Safety: A national analysis ranked states by fatal work zone crash rates, with the Northeast showing lower rates than the rest of the country.

West Nile Watch: Rhode Island health officials raised the statewide West Nile risk to “high” after five mosquito pools tested positive in Providence County, including East Providence, North Providence and Providence; no human cases have been reported, but residents are urged to prevent bites. Drug Pricing Accountability: A coalition of 43 attorneys general reached a $400 million settlement in principle with generic drugmaker Sandoz over alleged price-fixing and reduced competition, with total payments to state enforcers estimated at about $469 million if approved. Medicaid Work Rules Fight: A federal judge denied a bid to pause new Medicaid work requirements, setting a Jan. 1 deadline for states to implement the rules. Drinking Water Safety Research: URI and RIDOH will study manganese levels in Rhode Island drinking water through 2030, focusing on technical help for public systems and private well owners. Community Health Access: Sen. Dawn Euer is hosting a free expungement clinic and resource fair Aug. 5 in Newport, connecting people with criminal records to legal and mental health supports. Health Care Workforce & Aging: Age-Friendly Rhode Island received $330,000 from Point32Health Foundation to expand local partnerships and planning for an aging population.

West Nile Update: Rhode Island raised the West Nile virus risk level to high after detecting the virus in mosquito samples collected July 20 in Providence, North Providence, and East Providence; officials say it doesn’t mean a statewide outbreak, but residents should take steps to avoid mosquito bites. Aging Support: Age-Friendly Rhode Island received a $330,000 Point32Health Foundation grant to expand local planning, partnerships, and community action over three years. Local Health Leadership: Wood River Health promoted Dr. Lisa Menard-Manlove to chief medical officer, overseeing clinical quality for about 12,000 annual patients. Menopause & Midlife: A new docu-series follows six women through menopause-focused fitness, nutrition, and wellness journeys. Health Policy Fight: Rhode Island attorneys general joined a coalition suing to block a federal rule aimed at undermining Affordable Care Act protections, which could raise costs and reduce coverage. Road Safety (Health Impact): A fatal Route 146 crash in Uxbridge, MA killed a 26-year-old Rhode Island man after he was ejected; others had non-life-threatening injuries.

Public Health Alert (RI): RIDOH and DEM are warning residents to avoid contact with Lake Mishnock in West Greenwich because harmful algae blooms can produce toxins. Swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking are considered high risk until further notice, and people should not drink untreated water or eat fish from the affected area; pets should also be kept away. Health Policy (ACA): Rhode Island Attorney General Nick Brown joined a coalition of states suing the Trump administration over a 2027 rule that would weaken Affordable Care Act protections, expand certain catastrophic plans, and raise out-of-pocket costs. Aging & Brain Research (URI): URI neuroscientist William Van Nostrand received a $1.5 million grant to study cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a dangerous vascular complication linked to aging and Alzheimer’s disease. Local Care Access (RIPTA): Rhode Island’s new state budget closes RIPTA’s projected $14M operating gap, preventing another round of service cuts this fiscal year, though earlier reductions remain. Safety (Crash, MA/RI border): A 26-year-old Rhode Island man died after being ejected in a Route 146 crash in Uxbridge; the other driver and passenger were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.

Local Health Alert: RIDOH and DEM are warning Rhode Islanders to avoid contact with Lake Mishnock in West Greenwich due to harmful algae blooms, advising against swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, drinking untreated water, or eating fish; pets should also be kept out of the water. Public Transit & Access: RIPTA’s new state budget closes its projected $14M operating gap, preventing another round of service cuts (though earlier route reductions remain). Healthcare Policy: Rhode Island attorneys general joined a coalition suing the Trump administration over a 2027 rule that could make Affordable Care Act coverage more expensive and harder to get, with claims of millions at risk of losing insurance. Medicaid Work Rules: A federal judge denied a bid to pause new Medicaid work requirements, setting a Jan. 1 deadline for states to implement. Rhode Island Safety: A Route 37 crash in Cranston sent five people to the hospital; DUI is suspected and police are seeking a warrant for blood test results. Tick-Borne Disease Watch: CDC data show babesiosis cases spiking nationally, with Rhode Island among the highest rates.

Public Health Alert: RIDOH and DEM are warning Rhode Islanders to avoid contact with Lake Mishnock in West Greenwich due to harmful algae blooms, advising against swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, drinking untreated water, and eating fish until the advisory is lifted. Medicare/ACA Fight: Rhode Island and other attorneys general are suing to block a federal rule that would make Affordable Care Act coverage more expensive and harder to get, including changes to catastrophic and bronze plans. Babesiosis Watch: New CDC data show 3,586 babesiosis cases reported in 2023, with Rhode Island among the highest by rate—another reason to stay tick-aware as summer peaks. Local Transit: Rhode Island’s budget closes RIPTA’s projected $14M gap, preventing another round of service cuts this fiscal year, though earlier reductions remain. Research Funding: URI neuroscientist William Van Nostrand received a $1.5M grant to study cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a brain-vessel disease linked to Alzheimer’s. Cancer Prevention: Rhode Island signed a new colon-cancer awareness license plate honoring late Sen. Maryellen Goodwin, with proceeds supporting screening and awareness efforts.

Lake Mishnock Health Alert: RIDOH and DEM say to avoid contact with Lake Mishnock in West Greenwich after harmful algae blooms were detected; swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking are high risk until further notice, and people should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected areas. Tick-Borne Disease Watch: CDC data show 3,586 babesiosis cases reported in 2023, with Rhode Island among the highest by rate—an important reminder that symptoms can be mistaken for other illnesses during peak tick season. Behavioral Health Access: Newport Mental Health won state licensure to provide 24/7 Mobile Response and Stabilization Services for children and families across Rhode Island, aiming to prevent unnecessary ER visits and hospitalizations. Cancer Screening Support: Rhode Island signed a new specialty license plate to raise funds for colon cancer awareness in honor of late Sen. Maryellen Goodwin. ACA Coverage Fight: Rhode Island’s attorney general joined a multi-state lawsuit challenging a federal rule that could make Affordable Care Act coverage more expensive and harder to get. Local Health & Safety: RIPTA is moving forward with plans for a Providence Transit Center, but the construction timeline remains unclear.

Local Health Alert: RIDOH and DEM say Lake Mishnock in West Greenwich has harmful algae blooms, urging residents to avoid all contact—no swimming, fishing, boating or kayaking—plus not to drink untreated water or eat fish; pets should also be kept out of the water until the advisory is lifted. ACA Insurance Fight: Rhode Island’s AG Nick Brown joined a coalition suing to block a federal HHS/CMS rule that would expand catastrophic plans that don’t qualify for premium tax credits and could raise costs and reduce coverage for millions. Medicaid Work Rules: A federal judge refused to pause new Medicaid work requirements, setting a Jan. 1 deadline for states to implement them, even as challengers argue the “medically frail” exemption is too narrow. Tick-Borne Disease Watch: CDC data show 3,586 babesiosis cases reported in 2023, with Rhode Island among the highest by rate, as tick season peaks. Research & Aging: URI neuroscientist William Van Nostrand won a $1.5M grant to study cerebral amyloid angiopathy, a brain-bleed and cognitive decline risk tied to Alzheimer’s. Public Health on Block Island: A tick-borne disease forum highlighted growing concern that the island’s tick problem is now a public health issue, with experts pointing to deer populations and Lone Star ticks. Cancer Screening Support: Rhode Island signed a new specialty license plate to raise funds for colon cancer awareness in honor of late Senate Majority Whip Maryellen Goodwin. Mosquito Season: West Nile Virus was detected in mosquito samples from Providence, East Providence, and North Providence, with statewide risk raised to “high.”