AGP Executive Report

New Hospital Opening: Orlando Health Watson Clinic Lakeland Highlands Hospital officially began taking patients July 8, adding 306 beds, labor and delivery services, NICU capacity, and heart cath labs for Polk County. Public Health & Food Safety: CDC reports cyclosporiasis cases are rising, with Florida tied to the outbreak as officials track sources and warn about severe, watery diarrhea. Clinical Policy: Advocates are pushing Congress to eliminate Medicare chronic care management copays, arguing the small monthly charge can still add up to big costs and limit patient access. Health Tech Investment: Jacksonville-based CurifyLabs raised $14M to expand automated personalized medication compounding, aiming to speed safer custom dosing. Asthma Research: A new study links higher vitamin A and D levels to better lung function in asthma, with vitamin D tied to slower lung-cell aging in adults. Local Safety & Care Access: A Tampa pain clinic agreed to pay $115K after barring a disabled veteran from bringing a service dog to an appointment. Injury & Tragedy: Casselberry police identified two people killed in a deadly crash tied to a suspected drug trafficker who fled authorities. Sun & Weather Risk: Heat advisories continue across South Florida as residents are urged to stay cool and hydrated.

Food Safety Alerts: Publix is recalling GreenWise Organic frozen blueberries in eight states after E. coli illness reports, with lot code 60401 and best-by Feb. 9, 2028—health officials warn frozen produce is often eaten without cooking, raising risk for severe GI illness. Public Health Watch: CDC tracking a fast-rising cyclosporiasis surge across multiple states; Florida is among the hardest hit, with guidance to wash produce well and cook when possible. Animal Health & Safety: Volusia County issued a 60-day rabies alert for part of Daytona Beach after a rabid, unvaccinated cat was found; residents are urged to avoid wild animals and keep pets vaccinated. Behavioral Health Access: Florida courts are updating problem-solving court standards, including adult drug, mental health, DUI, and veterans courts, aiming for consistent statewide reporting and best practices. Wellness & Research: USF research finds the brain can process words readers skip, supporting stronger letter-sound and spelling instruction. Sleep Innovation: Dumbo Health launched SleepLongevityAge, pitching a membership that turns wearable sleep data into clinical care. Community Health: OneBlood is urgently seeking rare blood donations for a Miami teen with sickle cell disease ahead of a bone marrow transplant. Summer Safety: Florida is in the thick of storm season—local coverage highlights lightning and heat preparedness as key risks for residents and visitors.

Rabies Alert: Volusia County’s health department issued a 60-day rabies alert after a confirmed case in an unvaccinated cat near Daytona Beach, urging residents to avoid wild animals and keep pets leashed and vaccinated. Primary Care Access: A new full-service primary care clinic opened in Miami Gardens with same-day appointments and walk-ins, offering family medicine plus FDA-approved weight loss options. GI Illness Watch: Florida is among states tracking cyclosporiasis as CDC reports a growing multi-state outbreak tied to contaminated food/water, with guidance focused on avoiding risky produce and practicing careful hygiene. Storm Safety: Reports highlight multiple lightning injuries across Florida over the July 4 weekend, including a lifeguard struck while on patrol—another reminder to seek shelter fast during storms. Mental Health Care Online: Psychiatry Telemed launched statewide, offering cash-pay telepsychiatry with video visits and faster access to medication management. Firefighter Health: Florida’s PFAS firefighting-foam rules are tightening as advocates push toward eventual bans, citing cancer risks for firefighters.

Public Health & Safety: Florida and nearby states are responding to an E. coli outbreak tied to Publix frozen organic blueberries, with FDA/CDC reporting 12 illnesses in Florida and one in Georgia and urging people to check recall details. Infectious Disease Watch: Federal health officials also warn about flesh-eating bacteria risk (Vibrio vulnificus) as summer beach and water activity ramps up. Diabetes Care: The FDA approved Afrezza inhaled mealtime insulin for children and teens with diabetes, aiming to reduce needle anxiety and improve school-day dosing. Local Wellness & Access: A county is set to approve funding for a 1.4-mile multi-use path, plus support for a nutrient-mitigation effort using hemp to help curb algae blooms at Lake Glenada. Justice System Health: The Florida Supreme Court ordered updates to best practices for problem-solving courts, including adult drug, mental health, DUI, and veterans courts. Care Coverage Update: Medicaid billing is resuming for Planned Parenthood services other than abortion after being cut off for most of a year. Everglades Invasives: Florida is urging python hunters to focus on levee banks and trees (not waterways) as part of the annual Python Challenge.

Public Health & Food Safety: Florida is among states reporting cyclosporiasis/“explosive” diarrhea linked to a microscopic parasite, with Florida Department of Health guidance urging hygiene and careful food/water handling. Healthcare Access & Costs: New federal data shows steep drops in Affordable Care Act enrollment after enhanced subsidies expired, with Ohio and Oklahoma losing nearly one-third of enrollees—an affordability warning for states like Florida. Cancer Care Accountability: A Florida woman who was told her mammogram was clear is now getting a $7M settlement after later being diagnosed with terminal stage 4 breast cancer. Medicaid Oversight: CVS will pay $36.5M to settle allegations of over-dispensing insulin pens—another reminder that prescription billing practices can trigger major enforcement. Community Health & Prevention: Florida heat is driving skin-cancer prevention reminders, including sunscreen basics and why tanning isn’t “healthy skin.” Local Wellness & Growth: HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital awarded scholarships through a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentorship partnership, backing future healthcare careers. Injury & Safety: A Seminole County alligator attack death report details a “death roll,” while Florida also saw a fatal lightning strike on Fort Myers Beach and a toddler death after being left in a hot car. Food Recall: Publix recalled frozen GreenWise organic IQF blueberries across multiple states after E. coli O145:H28 illness reports.

Heat & Public Safety: A weeklong heat wave has killed at least 25 people across the U.S., with heat index values expected to hit 100–105°F in parts of the East Coast including Jacksonville, while storms threaten flooding and damaging winds. Infectious Disease Watch: CDC-linked reporting highlights rising concern about flesh-eating bacteria (Vibrio vulnificus) in coastal waters, with Florida already seeing infections this year and officials urging extra caution around open wounds. Foodborne Illness Alerts: Frozen blueberries have been recalled across multiple states after E. coli illnesses, and Cyclospora cases are climbing in many states—Florida is among those tracking the spread. PFAS Cleanup Breakthrough: Two Washington companies say they can destroy PFAS rather than just contain it, including a system claiming to break down over 99.99% of PFAS in wastewater. Mental Health for First Responders: Florida is flagged as the national hotspot for firefighter suicides, with experts warning underreporting may hide the true scale. Local Health Events: Charlotte County’s Back to School Bash (July 11) will offer free child screenings, haircuts, bike helmet help, and connections to health and support services.

Public Health & Safety: Florida’s Clean Beaches Week runs through July 7, with rangers urging “leave no trace” habits to protect sea turtles and shorebirds—flatten sand castles, avoid dunes, and follow posted nesting signs. Weather-Related Risk: A lightning strike killed one man at Fort Myers Beach and injured three others, marking Florida’s second lightning fatality of the year and a reminder that beach activities are a major lightning danger. Healthcare Policy: New July 1 reforms tighten Florida rules on pharmacy benefit managers, aiming to reduce middleman control over drug coverage and pricing. Community Health Support: Lee Health’s Cancer Support Community is now a free, in-person-and-virtual lifeline for patients, survivors, and caregivers, offering support, education, and healthy lifestyle programs. Food Safety: Publix issued a frozen blueberry recall tied to E. coli-linked stomach illnesses. Sports & Wellness: Former NFL broadcaster Marcellus Wiley was arrested in Central Florida on an alleged domestic battery charge. Violence & Public Safety: A July 4 “teen takeover” in downtown Pensacola left one 19-year-old dead and six others injured; police say it was likely targeted.

Public Health & Safety: Florida’s holiday heat and storms are proving deadly, with a Fort Myers Beach lightning strike hitting a family of four—one person died and three were hospitalized—underscoring the need to get indoors fast when thunder roars. Wildlife Risk: A 71-year-old North Fort Myers man survived an alligator attack while fishing by fighting back with a fishing pole and using his bulldog to help him get back to shore. Water Quality & Ecosystems: UF/IFAS researchers say Florida’s algae blooms in natural springs may not be driven by nitrates alone; declining snail grazers (Elimia) and oxygen levels could be key factors. Home & Wellness: A Florida psychotherapist warns that sleep trackers can fuel anxiety and worsen sleep by shifting focus from how you feel to what the device says. Food Safety: Publix recalled GreenWise frozen organic whole blueberries in multiple states after reports of E. coli O145:H28 illnesses, including 12 confirmed cases linked to the product. Disaster Preparedness: Lake Placid is considering rules for temporary emergency housing in campers/RVs after declared disasters, aiming to protect health and safety while homes are repaired.

Extreme Heat Safety: South Florida is bracing for July Fourth heat and humidity with feels-like temps near 112°F in parts of Miami-Dade, plus pop-up storms; officials urge hydration, air-conditioning breaks, and checking on elderly neighbors. Lightning Tragedies: Fort Myers Beach reported a fatal lightning strike that killed one swimmer and injured three others; crews used an AED and CPR, but the victim died. Food Safety Recall: Publix is recalling frozen GreenWise Organic IQF Blueberries (10 oz, lot 60401, best by Feb. 9, 2028) due to possible E. coli O145 contamination; customers are told to return or discard affected purchases made 7/3/2026 or earlier. Public Health Watch: Health officials are investigating a growing cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to severe “explosive” watery diarrhea, with symptoms often starting about a week after exposure. Local Health & Wellness: Sedano’s Supermarkets is pushing hurricane-season preparedness supplies, encouraging families to stock early rather than wait for watches or warnings. Wildlife Safety: A Fort Myers man survived an alligator attack using a fishing pole and his bulldog’s help, highlighting the need for caution around Florida waterways.

Public Health Alert: The CDC says cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora) is showing up in Florida, with 1–10 cases reported so far, as the national outbreak grows and officials work to identify sources. Holiday Safety: A lightning strike at Fort Myers Beach killed one swimmer and injured three others; witnesses described the blast-like sound and emergency crews used CPR/AED before paramedics arrived. Food Safety: Multiple major retailers issued “do not eat” recalls on common items, including Morrisons Coronation Chicken Pasta (possible undeclared milk for people with intolerance/allergy) and other recalled snacks/produce-linked products. Community & Wellness: Florida Wildlife Hospital marked “Freedom Friday” by releasing four red-shouldered hawks after rehabilitation, highlighting the role of local partnerships in protecting native wildlife. Climate & Health: Coral bleaching coverage underscores how hotter ocean temperatures weaken reefs, increasing disease risk and threatening storm protection and local economies.

Public Health & Safety: Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, YMCA of South Florida and the Florida Panthers are warning families about Florida’s drowning surge ahead of the Fourth of July, citing 62 drownings statewide so far this year and urging constant supervision and layered prevention. Mental Health: Braveminds Academy highlights how depression in teen boys often shows up as anger, withdrawal and school refusal—not just sadness—pushing parents to seek evaluation when behavior shifts. Infectious Disease Watch: CDC issued a summer West Nile virus warning, flagging the highest number of infections in 22 years, as heat and mosquito season ramp up. Food & Health Policy: Civilians filed a federal lawsuit against CDC and NIH seeking equal diagnostic guidance and care for Havana Syndrome/AHI victims, arguing the agencies have delayed public protocols. Community Relief: Palm Beach County Catholic parishes are collecting donations for Venezuela earthquake relief, including nonperishable food, OTC meds and basic medical supplies. Local Crime & Health Impact: A North Lauderdale Walmart parking-lot dispute ended with a man shot dead; the shooter claims self-defense, with no charges filed yet.

Extreme Heat & Public Safety: A U.S. heat wave is expected to push World Cup conditions to dangerous levels, with peak heat indexes between 100–115°F and little overnight relief—raising concerns for athletes and fans. Hospital Preparedness: HCA Florida Highlands Hospital ran an active shooter drill with Sebring police, focusing on the first critical minutes and staff-law enforcement coordination. Infectious Disease Watch: CDC and partners are tracking a parasite behind “explosive” diarrhea (Cyclospora/cyclosporiasis) that has sickened people across 17 states, with Michigan cases surging. Community Health & Access: Star Dental opened a Lakewood clinic offering 7-day urgent dental care and accepting Medicaid. Immigration & Caregiving Anxiety: Southwest Florida Haitian residents are in limbo after a Supreme Court ruling affecting Temporary Protected Status, with families worried about what comes next for stability and support. Health Care Fraud Sentencing: Two women tied to a behavioral health clinic in Wyoming were sentenced for a Medicaid fraud scheme, including claims for services that didn’t occur. Local Health Incident: Authorities are investigating a death of a Lee County Jail inmate nearly a year after a “suspicious incident.”

Sovereign Immunity Fight: Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a bill that would have raised Florida’s caps on damages in government-negligence cases, warning it could fuel meritless lawsuits and strain local budgets. Public Health & Water Safety: Florida swimmers are being warned about deadly Vibrio vulnificus along Atlantic waters ahead of the Fourth of July, with officials noting infections can turn serious fast—especially for people with underlying conditions. Local Care Expansion: Orlando Health and Watson Clinic’s Lakeland Highlands Hospital is set to open July 8, adding major inpatient, ER, operating room, and cardiac interventional capacity in Polk County. Trauma Access: Lakeland Regional Health earned Florida’s Level I Trauma Center designation, aiming to keep severely injured adults and children closer to home. Legal/Privacy in DUI Case: A judge ruled prosecutors can review Tiger Woods’ hospital records tied to his March crash, under a protective order limiting who can access the information. Summer Safety Reminder: A Tampa-area physician warns heat, fireworks, and food mishandling drive many ER visits over the holiday weekend. Alligator Incident: Body-cam and 911 details continue to emerge after a fatal alligator attack in Seminole County’s Econlockhatchee River area, underscoring low-visibility risks in summer water.

Dialysis Innovation: Xeltis says it hit 50% enrollment in its US pivotal trial for aXess™, a vascular access device that turns into a living vessel for hemodialysis—an FDA Breakthrough Device–designated milestone. Public Health Watch: A parasite called Cyclospora is spreading across the US, with at least 145 sick and 20 hospitalized, including cases reported in Florida. Weight-Loss Real-World Data: A Mayo Clinic Health System study finds tirzepatide users lose more total body weight on average if they’re women; age wasn’t a clear independent predictor. Care Access & Tech: A robotic pharmacy startup, Queue, says it can fill and verify prescriptions without a pharmacist on-site, aiming to address staffing and pharmacy pressures. Sports Safety: Florida’s new drowning-prevention law expands state-funded swim lesson vouchers for kids ages 1–7. Local Health & Safety: Florida Highway Patrol reports a 78-year-old Port St. Lucie woman died after being knocked down by a rolling SUV in a driveway. Policy & Health Costs: A House subcommittee hearing highlighted sharp divides over how to lower healthcare costs, including direct contracting vs Medicaid/ACA coverage concerns.

Alligator Attack Aftermath: Florida officials identified 31-year-old Brittany Clark of Orlando as the woman killed after an alligator mauled her in the Econlockhatchee River near Little Big Econ State Forest; 911 calls captured her boyfriend’s frantic pleas as she lost blood and crews responded with multiple agencies, including FWC. Youth Mental Health & Social Media: TikTok reached a settlement with a Florida teen who sued over alleged addictive design that he says worsened depression, anxiety, and sleep loss, as other platform trials remain on the calendar. Concussion Care Access: HitCheck is partnering with Headquarters Health to connect mobile concussion screening to telehealth scheduling with concussion specialists, aiming to speed up next steps after a suspected concussion. New Florida Health-Adjacent Law Changes: July 1 updates include Isaiah’s Law for repeat unlicensed driving penalties and broader July 1 changes affecting schools and health-related rules like allowing FDA-approved epinephrine devices for at-risk students. Cancer Research for Firefighters: University of Miami’s Sylvester Firefighter Cancer Initiative trained as wildland firefighters in Florida to better study smoke, heat, and gear-related cancer risks through a new WISER study.

Alligator Attack Updates: Brittany Clark, 31, has been named as the victim of a fatal Econlockhatchee River attack near Orlando, with new reports describing a “death roll” as her boyfriend tried to pull her free. Public Health & Prevention: A letter from a Florida nurse urges lawmakers to keep vaccine mandates, citing rising measles and other communicable-disease concerns. Local Governance: DeSantis signed a bill sending a proposed merger of the Fort Myers Beach and Iona McGregor fire departments to the November ballot, despite a study finding few compelling reasons to combine. Healthcare Tech: Humata Health expands prior authorization tools beyond large health systems, aiming to cut denials and reduce clinician paperwork. Research & Innovation: DEEP successfully installed a subsea human habitat in the Florida Keys to support multi-day underwater missions for coral restoration and marine science. Community Health Events: Lee Health’s bloodmobile is set for July 25 at the Pine Island Moose Lodge, with donors encouraged to help local hospitals.