AGP Executive Report

Opioid Treatment Access: A new nearly $4 million NIH-funded project will scale a model that helps primary care clinics prescribe medication for opioid use disorder, expanding to about 40 clinics across Ohio and West Virginia with regional health partners. Nursing Workforce: WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital plans a new Center for Nursing Education at Wheeling University, aiming to train about 26 future registered nurses per class starting fall 2027, with no tuition and a three-year bedside work requirement. Maternal Mental Health: West Virginia improved to a B-Minus on the 2026 Maternal Mental Health Report Card, reflecting expanded statewide efforts after a D-Minus three years ago. Cancer Care Coverage: West Virginia approved chemotherapy scalp cooling coverage, a step aimed at helping patients reduce hair loss during treatment. Public Health & Safety: EMS research found intramuscular naloxone led to faster recovery and fewer repeat doses than intranasal, without more precipitated withdrawal. Food & Health Policy: Reports highlight ongoing concerns about synthetic dyes in packaged foods, while West Virginia is among states that have enacted restrictions. Animal Health: West Virginia announced new requirements for transporting animals into the state to prevent New World screwworm spread. Local Healthcare Operations: Hospitals in Kentucky and West Virginia responded to a federal pricing transparency review, saying technical issues—not missing data—were the concern. Agriculture Innovation: WVU researchers developed a soft robotic gripper to inspect fruit ripeness and harvest without bruising, with potential benefits for West Virginia strawberry growers.

Cancer Care Access: West Virginia will require insurers to cover chemotherapy scalp cooling starting with 2027 policies, helping patients reduce hair loss during treatment. Maternal Mental Health: A new report card from the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health gives West Virginia a B-Minus, an improvement from a D-Minus in 2023, tied to expanded perinatal psychiatric support. Opioid Treatment in Primary Care: An Ohio University team won a nearly $4 million NIH grant to scale a model that supports primary care clinics in prescribing medications for opioid use disorder, expanding across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia. Drinking Water Woes: U.S. Rep. Riley Moore highlighted ongoing water quality problems in McDowell County, describing discolored water and health impacts from failing infrastructure. SNAP Pressure: National reporting says SNAP cuts and new work rules are hitting Black Americans hardest, with advocates warning the worst is still ahead. Animal Health & Biosecurity: West Virginia issued new interstate movement requirements to prevent New World screwworm from entering the state, including permits and veterinary inspection for higher-risk zones.

Opioid Treatment Access: Ohio University researchers won a nearly $4M NIH grant to expand a primary-care model for prescribing medication for opioid use disorder across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia, aiming to close the gap between proven treatments and real-world practice. Food Safety & Additives: Consumer Reports and Yuka found “concerning levels of additives” in some popular packaged snacks, with synthetic dyes still showing up in about 1 in 5 foods; West Virginia is among states with dye restrictions. Pregnancy Health: A new study suggests pregnant people who reduce sitting and add light activity may lower risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Maternal Care Ranking: West Virginia was ranked worst for having a baby in a new study tied to high childbirth costs versus household income. Animal Health Watch: West Virginia agriculture issued new interstate movement rules after New World screwworm detections, requiring permits and veterinary inspection steps. Care Workforce: WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital welcomed 20 nursing students for a paid nurse extern program. Health System Growth: Marshall University approved buying land in Huntington for a future medical school home and community health institute.

Opioid Treatment Access: An Ohio researcher’s nearly $4M NIH grant will scale a primary-care model for prescribing medications for opioid use disorder across about 40 clinics in Ohio and West Virginia, partnering with regional health groups to track outcomes. Food Additives Watch: Consumer Reports and Yuka found synthetic dyes in nearly 1 in 5 packaged foods, with some products exceeding stricter child-safety thresholds used by California and other states, including West Virginia. Screwworm Prevention: West Virginia agriculture officials say warm-blooded animals entering the state from infested areas need permits and veterinary inspection certificates to prevent New World screwworm. Healthcare Workforce: Princeton Community Hospital in WV welcomed 20 nursing students for a paid 10-week nurse extern program with rotations across clinical departments. Medical Education Expansion: Marshall University’s board approved buying 3.9 acres in Huntington for its future medical school and Community Health Institute, funded by a $30M state appropriation. Inflation & Health Costs: Consumer price inflation hit 4.2% in May, a three-year high, driven largely by energy costs—raising pressure on household budgets and healthcare affordability.

Family Support Centers Funding: West Virginia’s county Family Support Centers are facing a July 1 deadline and possible staff/program cuts as federal anti-poverty dollars flow through the state, with lawmakers warning of a $40 million structural deficit. Rural Health Tech: The WV Department of Health is seeking ideas for remote patient monitoring to help people manage chronic conditions at home and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations. Care Access for Veterans: The Hershel “Woody” Williams VA Medical Center is recruiting caregivers in eastern Kentucky for the Medical Foster Home program, offering around-the-clock support in a home setting. Opioid Settlement Services: Brooke County commissioners heard a funding request from Empower and Link Inc. to expand recovery supports using opioid settlement dollars. Water Infrastructure: Follansbee is set to receive $500,000 for Hooverson Heights Water Treatment Plant upgrades, aiming to close a funding gap without adding costs to residents. Public Health & Safety: WV forestry officials remind residents that burn rules loosen June 1, but dry conditions can return fast—stay cautious. Child Well-Being: A national KIDS COUNT report says child well-being declined across much of the U.S. from 2019 to 2024, with Kentucky still struggling on health and economic security. Food Access: Preston County is restarting a summer feeding program with free meals for kids 18 and under.

Medicaid Enforcement: New York AG Letitia James and DOJ secured $36.5 million from CVS over Medicaid insulin overbilling, a reminder that fraud can directly drain health programs. Access to Care in Rural WV: Southern West Virginia lawmakers and advocates are raising alarms about hospital access, including concerns around Welch Community Hospital’s financial strain and possible ownership changes. Child & Family Support: Tucker County Family Support Center is asking residents to share stories with Gov. Morrisey’s office as funding uncertainty threatens family services. Summer Nutrition: Preston County is restarting a free summer meals program for kids 18 and under, with pickups starting June 29. Behavioral Health Training: Seed Sower will host a free Mental Health First Aid course in Beckley on June 12, with limited seating and required registration. Public Health Infrastructure: Gov. Morrisey announced about $3.3 million for four water projects to improve public health and spur local development. Local Health Workforce & Wellness: New River Health Association named three scholarship winners to support future healthcare careers in southern WV, while a WVU study highlights how rural women entrepreneurs can boost local economies.

Cancer Care Coverage: West Virginia’s new “Jessica Huffman’s Law” (HB 4089) takes effect, requiring health insurers to cover scalp cooling systems to help cancer patients reduce hair loss. Public Health & Housing: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced $3.3 million for four water infrastructure projects statewide, including a $1 million Webster County award to extend potable water and fire service—aimed at improving public health and supporting future housing and business growth. Food Security: Wood County Schools will start free summer meals June 15, offering no-registration breakfast and lunch at 12 sites for kids under 18. Child Well-Being: West Virginia held steady at 41st nationally in the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Kids Count report, with 22% of children living in poverty. SNAP Rules: New federal SNAP restrictions are rolling out across many states, including West Virginia, limiting purchases of items like soda and candy—raising concerns about nutrition and access. Care Access: Indiana’s move to join the Counseling Compact lets licensed counselors practice across state lines, a model that could help address provider shortages. Community Health: WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center recognized staff for patient safety and employee excellence. Safety Reminder: Randolph County is seeking help locating missing 82-year-old James Hedrick, who has dementia.

SNAP & food access: The Trump administration is pushing new SNAP rules that restrict what shoppers can buy, with West Virginia listed among states already approved for limits on items like soda and candy—raising fresh concerns about nutrition and food insecurity. Child wellbeing in WV: West Virginia held steady at 41st nationally in the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Kids Count report, with 22% of children living in poverty, and advocates pointing to economic supports as a key lever for better health outcomes. Summer meals: Wood County Schools will start free summer breakfast and lunch June 15 at 12 sites, serving kids under 18 with no registration or income checks. Public health infrastructure: Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced about $3.3 million for four water infrastructure projects meant to improve public health and support housing and business growth. Animal health watch: WV agriculture officials are monitoring the New World screwworm detection in Texas and say emergency plans are in place if it spreads. Local safety: A fatal Morgan County crash is under investigation, and a Lincoln County man died after a zero-turn lawn mower accident. Healthcare leadership: WVU Medicine Garrett Regional Medical Center recognized employee and patient safety award winners.

Medicaid Coverage Risk: A new push to enforce Medicaid work requirements is already threatening coverage for millions, with critics warning paperwork and verification rules can cut off people who are working or eligible. Health System Expansion: WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals is set to expand intensive care capacity, including major upgrades tied to WVU Health System investments. Local Care Access & Oversight: Gov. Morrisey named William “Bill” D’Aiuto as COO of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, aiming to streamline operations across Medicaid, child welfare, and behavioral health. Supreme Court Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court is nearing major rulings on gun rights, transgender athlete bans, and immigration policy—decisions that could reshape health and safety rules nationwide. Severe Weather Injuries: Strong winds during the WVU vs. Cal Poly NCAA baseball super regional sent five fans to the hospital after a tent was blown over. Public Health Threats: A salmonella outbreak linked to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including West Virginia, raising concerns for families and young children. Community Health & Safety: A Teamsters Local 175 community event highlighted an ongoing dispute at The Beverage Market, with workers emphasizing local support while negotiations continue.

Storm Injuries at WVU Baseball: Heavy winds during the WVU–Cal Poly Super Regional sent an event tent flying into the crowd, injuring at least five fans who were transported to local hospitals; WVU said it’s coordinating with area health providers as the game resumed after a weather delay. Health System Deal in Motion: WVU Health System signed a definitive agreement to acquire Independence Health System, a five-hospital network in Southwestern Pennsylvania, with about $800 million planned for upgrades and expanded capabilities. State Human Services Leadership: Gov. Jim Justice appointed William “Bill” D’Aiuto as Chief Operating Officer of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, aiming to improve operational oversight across Medicaid, child welfare, SNAP, and behavioral health. Public Health Watch: A CDC-linked salmonella outbreak tied to backyard chicken flocks has reached West Virginia among many states, with young children hit hardest. Supreme Court Health Policy Crossroads: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on major cases that include gun rights and whether transgender athletes can compete in women’s sports—an issue directly affecting West Virginia and Idaho.

Severe Weather & Safety: Strong winds and thunderstorms hit the WVU baseball super regional at Kendrick Family Ballpark in Morgantown, blowing over an event tent and sending five fans to the hospital; WVU said EMS and first responders secured the area and that the team advanced to the College World Series while officials urged support for those injured. Supreme Court Watch: The U.S. Supreme Court is set to rule on major “culture war” cases, including challenges to Idaho and West Virginia bans on transgender athletes and disputes tied to gun laws. State Human Services: Gov. Jim Justice appointed William “Bill” D’Aiuto as Chief Operating Officer of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, aiming to improve oversight and service delivery across child welfare, Medicaid, SNAP, and behavioral health. Public Health: A drug-resistant salmonella outbreak linked to backyard chicken flocks has spread across many states, including West Virginia, with young children among those most affected. Health Policy & Care: A federal appeals ruling keeps alive a class action over West Virginia’s foster care system, reversing a dismissal and sending the case forward.

Storm Injuries at WVU Super Regional: A severe thunderstorm turned the WVU baseball Super Regional at Kendrick Family Ballpark into a medical emergency after a large canopy tent collapsed on “Randy’s Ridge,” injuring seven people and sending all to care. Homelessness Response in Wheeling: Wheeling announced a new homelessness task force led by the faith community, aiming to coordinate housing, public safety, health, and mental health services with broad community input. Medicaid Spending Watch: In Philippi, Medicaid claims for radiology procedures rose 11.6% in 2024, reaching $58,616—an example of how public health dollars shift locally. Opioid Use Disorder Research: Morgantown-based GATC Health reported early success on a potential new opioid use disorder treatment, GATC-1021, with human clinical trials expected next. Foster Care Lawsuit Still Alive: A federal appeals court revived a class action challenging West Virginia’s foster care system, saying courts must remedy systemic constitutional rights violations. Nursing Home Quality Updates: CMS data highlighted staffing and care ratings for West Virginia facilities, including Worthington Healthcare Center receiving an overall rating of 2 in early 2026. Health Policy & Care Access: A West Virginia surgeon accused CAMC of age discrimination and retaliation after a promised job tied to Charleston Surgical Hospital. Public Health & Safety: West Virginia officials also faced ongoing scrutiny over chemical-disaster oversight and watchdog efforts, while local incidents—from CVS shooting investigations to DUI arrests—continued to raise community safety concerns.

Foster Care Lawsuit: A federal appeals court revived a class action over West Virginia’s foster care system, saying courts must remedy alleged systemic constitutional rights violations—an important win for children challenging placements tied to hotels, shelters, institutions, and out-of-state care. Opioid Treatment Breakthrough: In Morgantown, GATC Health’s lab-developed drug GATC-1021 for opioid use disorder is moving toward human trials after early successful testing, with the company using AI-based drug discovery. Pregnancy Health: A new WVU-led study links prolonged sitting in early pregnancy to higher odds of complications like gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth. Nursing Home Watch: Worthington Healthcare Center in Wood County received a CMS overall rating of 2 in early 2026, with reported fines and penalties during the quarter. Community Health Access: Ohio County Master Gardeners host a landscape architect talk that also highlights bioswales and local projects—small steps that can support healthier outdoor environments. Emergency Preparedness: Local doctors urge residents to refresh CPR and AED skills during CPR and AED Awareness Week, noting most cardiac arrests happen at home. Health Care System & Work: A surgeon filed a complaint accusing CAMC of age discrimination and retaliation after a promised job tied to Charleston Surgical Hospital.

Pregnancy Health: A new JAMA study led by WVU found women who sat more than 10 hours a day had about twice the risk of complications like gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and preterm birth—supporting advice to break up prolonged sitting during pregnancy. Rural Hospital Funding: Vice President J.D. Vance highlighted Medicaid fraud crackdowns, arguing that targeting waste and abuse could help rural hospitals without simply raising costs. Cancer Data Spotlight: The West Virginia Cancer Registry earned a CDC “Registry of Excellence” designation, boosting confidence in cancer data used for research and national statistics. Chemical Safety Fight: A federal appeals court tossed an injunction against Chemours over pollution limits in the Ohio River, while separate reporting says Trump wants to cut the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board—raising concerns for West Virginia’s industrial safety. Emergency Preparedness: During CPR and AED Awareness Week, a WV doctor urged residents to refresh lifesaving skills, noting most out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home and AED use is still too rare. Energy Costs & Policy: Maps show residential electricity prices vary widely by state, and WV’s broader cost-of-living pressures are tied to energy reliability and rates.

Coal & Health Impacts: President Trump announced nearly $700M in Defense Production Act funding to keep coal plants running, including support tied to West Virginia and a new coal export terminal in Oakland—moves critics warn could worsen air pollution and health risks. Nursing Home Watch: CMS data shows St. Mary’s Hospital (Cabell County) earned a 5-star rating for Q1 2026, while Pierpont Center (Marion) and Willows Center (Wood) landed at 2-star and 1-star respectively, highlighting uneven long-term care quality. Maternal Health: A new study links less sitting and more light activity/steps with lower risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes, offering a practical approach beyond traditional exercise advice. Cancer Screening Access: Bonnie’s Bus will bring mobile 3D mammograms and education to multiple WV counties in late June and early July, with help for eligible uninsured/underinsured patients. Community Mental Health: Partners are hosting a gathering to support emotional recovery as the one-year anniversary of the June 14, 2025 flood approaches in Ohio County. Legal System (Foster Care): The 4th Circuit revived a class-action challenge to West Virginia’s child welfare system, saying federal courts can address systemic constitutional rights issues.

Mobile Mammography Access: WVU Medicine-WVU Hospitals and the WVU Cancer Institute are sending “Bonnie’s Bus” to Morgan, Fayette, Harrison and Mercer counties with 3D screening and breast care education, including stops June 30–July 2; screenings can be billed to insurance, and eligible uninsured/underinsured women may qualify for free help through the West Virginia Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program. Foster Care Lawsuit Moves Forward: Foster children suing West Virginia over the troubled foster care system won a Fourth Circuit appeal, sending the case back so it can proceed toward real change. Food Security in Summer: WVDE is again listing USDA-funded summer feeding sites for kids statewide, warning hunger doesn’t pause when school ends and pointing families to the USDA Summer Meals Site Finder. Heart Health Decision-Making: A new look at aortic stenosis care highlights how patients and insurers weigh TAVR versus surgical valve replacement, stressing the need for clear, patient-specific discussions. Coal, Health, and Policy Crosscurrents: President Trump says he’ll use Cold War-era emergency powers to direct nearly $700M to coal plant upgrades and exports, including support tied to West Virginia—sparking renewed health concerns from advocates. WVU Health Expansion: WVU Health System signed a definitive agreement to acquire Independence Health System in Pennsylvania, with a planned close in September or October. Tick & Lyme Watch: ER visits for tick bites are rising, with the Northeast and Midwest seeing the biggest increases—another reminder to protect yourself during peak tick season. NextEra Transmission Line Pushback: Thousands of West Virginians have opposed NextEra’s $1.16B MidAtlantic Resiliency Link transmission project, with public comment hearings scheduled across multiple counties.