AGP Executive Report

UI Health Care Parking Fight: University of Iowa Health Care is raising employee parking permit prices at multiple locations, with some increases reported at more than 240%, prompting a Change.org petition signed by thousands. UIHC says the changes align permits across its system and reinvest parking revenue into maintenance and construction. Food Safety Watch: Iowa is seeing a significant rise in cyclosporiasis (Cyclospora), with more than 270 confirmed and probable cases reported; health officials note a multi-state outbreak linked to Taylor Farms iceberg lettuce explains only part of the total. Healthy Eating in Action: A hydroponic farm in the basement of WesleyLife’s Meals on Wheels building in Des Moines is growing herbs, leafy greens, and edible flowers for meal programs and for the Iowa State Fair, where leftover greens are sold to fund the organization. Community Health Support: The Iowa Governor’s Charity Steer Show raised $572,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Iowa, pushing total donations past $6.5 million since 1983. Public Health Reminder: Iowa radon awareness efforts continue with free DIY home testing kits, highlighting radon as a leading lung cancer risk for non-smokers.

Measles Watch: Wisconsin’s outbreak is spilling into Iowa, with DHS reporting 15 confirmed and 6 probable measles cases in Iowa and Lafayette counties—health officials are urging people to check vaccination status and monitor symptoms. Food Safety Recall: Kettle Cuisine is recalling 3,240 Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits sold at Walmart in 29 states due to possible Listeria contamination; no illnesses were reported, but the FDA says the product use-by date is Aug. 22, 2026. Disability Services Leadership: One Vision in Clear Lake named Dr. James Williams as its new CEO effective Sept. 27, bringing decades of experience in services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Health Care Justice: Luigi Mangione pleaded guilty in federal court to charges tied to the stalking and killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, admitting he used a 3-D printed gun with a silencer. Child Safety Case: Sioux City authorities charged an Iowa couple after an autistic 13-year-old was allegedly locked in a bedroom and malnourished, escaping through a window to get food.

Public Health & Food Safety: The Cyclospora outbreak linked to lettuce keeps expanding, with federal investigators running multiple inquiries and Iowa now reporting about 300 cases this year—while guidance and named sources remain uneven across clusters. Community Health & Nutrition: Hy-Vee is running a Back-to-School Community Food Drive through Aug. 23, pairing in-store donations with round-up options and matching monetary gifts to local pantries. Mental Health & Recovery Support: Cass County’s Thrive Iowa Alliance meeting on Aug. 24 will focus on “Strong in Recovery: Ready to Work,” connecting families, employers, and service providers. Disability Services Leadership: One Vision in Clear Lake named Dr. James Williams as its new CEO, effective Sept. 27, to lead disability services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Health Access & Prevention: Registration is open for Iowa’s 2026 Healthiest State Annual Walk on Oct. 7, encouraging 30-minute walks tied to physical and mental well-being. Safety & Trauma: Muscatine police are still searching for an armed and dangerous suspect after a shooting of an officer during a chase; the officer is reported stable.

Food Safety Alerts: A Kettle Cuisine recall pulled 3,240 packs of Walmart Marketside Tomato Bisque Soup Kits in 29 states, including Iowa, due to possible listeria contamination; no confirmed illnesses reported so far. Public Health Watch: The CDC says cyclosporiasis linked to recalled lettuce has spread further, with Iowa among states reporting cases as the outbreak totals climb. Measles Risk: Measles cases are rising in Iowa and nearby Lafayette County, with health officials urging residents to check vaccination status as outbreaks expand in the region. Local Access to Care: A rural Iowa town’s post office is temporarily closed for “safety and health concerns,” forcing residents to drive to a nearby city—another reminder how disruptions can hit everyday services. Community Health Promotion: Iowa’s Healthiest State Annual Walk registration is open for Oct. 7, with free sign-up for 30-minute walks focused on physical and mental well-being. Cancer Care Closer to Home: A Vinton-area breast cancer patient highlights how Mercy’s oncology outreach clinic helps rural Iowans keep follow-up care nearby.

Cyclospora Update: Iowa DHHS confirmed 28 more cyclosporiasis cases, bringing Iowa’s total to 300 in 2026, with Dallas County leading and many cases clustered around early July. Food Safety: The FDA and CDC began onsite inspections and sampling at Taylor Farms’ Mexico facility tied to the multistate outbreak; illnesses now total 9,481 across 17 states, including Iowa. Measles Watch: Wisconsin reported its first outbreak of the year, with 15 confirmed and 6 probable cases in Iowa County (plus one in Lafayette County), and officials urged people to check vaccination status as the national resurgence continues. Medicaid & Cancer Care: Iowa City candidate Christina Bohannan says Medicaid cuts hurt rural cancer care and vows to reverse spending reductions, speaking with cancer survivors and advocates. Nursing Home Legal Pressure: An Iowa nursing home chain faces new lawsuits alleging unpaid bills, including claims tied to Accura Healthcare facilities and more than $2.1 million in back rent. Mental Health Oversight: Independence Mental Health Institute (IMHI) is named in a lawsuit alleging gross negligence and a dangerous workplace environment. Senior Living Leadership: Wesley CEO Kevin Anderson announced plans to retire in summer 2027, starting a CEO search process. Health Policy & Fraud Scrutiny: Federal scrutiny continues into alleged billing fraud tied to minors’ gender-affirming care, with HHS cutting Medicaid/CHIP funding for certain “sex-rejecting” procedures.

Measles Alert: Wisconsin health officials say measles in Iowa and Lafayette counties has jumped from 2 confirmed cases to 15 confirmed and 6 probable, with most patients unvaccinated—prompting calls for higher vaccination rates to stop local spread. Foodborne Outbreak: The CDC reports thousands more Cyclospora cases tied to iceberg lettuce, now reaching 9,481 total cases across 17 states, with Iowa included among the affected. Rural Health & Policy: Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand outlines a plan that includes protecting rural healthcare, ending Iowa’s privatized Medicaid program, and raising the minimum wage to $12—framing it as support for farm and rural economies. School Mental Health: Van Buren County schools are launching the county’s first therapeutic “Discovery Classroom” at Harmony Center Elementary to teach life and mental health skills for students with behavioral or learning needs. Caregiving Planning: SDSU Extension is hosting a free webinar on end-of-life and legal planning through its “Organize This” program, aimed at helping communities prepare for future caregiving decisions. Community Health Events: Lee County Health Department is holding an extended children’s immunization clinic Aug. 20, with free lead testing for young kids and free dental screenings. Healthcare Careers: North Tama alum Carlee Feisel, RN, BSN, is highlighted for her nursing path including roles at Iowa hospitals and work in burn care, with plans to pursue nurse practitioner credentials.

Public Health Alert: Wisconsin health officials say a measles outbreak in the southwest has jumped to 15 confirmed cases and 6 probable, with most patients unvaccinated and more spread likely; Iowa County and Lafayette County are tied to the cluster, and officials are urging people to check vaccination status and watch for symptoms. Health Access & Care Delivery: The VA is seeking to extend its Oracle Health EHR modernization contract as deployment runs behind plan, with only 14 of 164 VA medical centers transitioned so far—raising questions for continuity of care. Rural Research: Avera’s mobile research unit is bringing clinical studies to rural communities, including Mitchell, with on-site visits and blood collection for an NIH-funded child health study. Iowa Health Leadership: UI Health Care named David Lee director of its Organ Transplant Center, succeeding Alan Reed, as the program looks to expand access and outcomes across Iowa. Community Health & Environment: An Iowa Environmental Council report finds Siouxland air quality monitors show concerning PM2.5 exposure patterns linked to local emissions, with potential respiratory and heart risks. Food & Nutrition Support: Food insecurity is rising in Rock County, with Feeding America data showing more people—including more children—relying on pantries. Local Safety: A helmetless rider died after an illegal high-powered e-bike crash on a Marion trail; speed and alcohol are suspected factors.

Food Safety Watch: Whole Foods expanded its salmonella-related recall tied to jalapeños from Coast Citrus Distributors, pulling select dips, salsas, guacamole and prepared foods sold in 12 states including Iowa; no illnesses were reported in connection with the recalled items. Public Health & Access: Iowa Medicaid fraud task force met again to discuss boosting fraud tips and coordination, with Attorney General Brenna Bird saying recommendations are coming after more meetings. Medicaid for People With Disabilities: Disability advocates say Medicaid’s work and income limits can block career growth, echoing a broader push to require more proof of work hours. Hospital Accountability: The state approved a $2 million settlement after a 7-year-old died during a “highly experimental” procedure at UI Health Care, according to reporting. Rural EMS Funding: Fayette County EMS providers are bracing for a November essential service levy vote as some ambulance coverage changes are expected. Cardiac Preparedness: St. Luke’s Heart & Vascular Center expansion wrapped up with nearly 50 AED grants to local schools, churches and nonprofits. Workplace Health: A former ISU graduate research assistant sued Iowa State and the Board of Regents alleging disability discrimination and retaliation, including claims of medical debt after insurance was terminated. Injury & Emergency Response: A Missouri woman died after an ATV crash at Bluff Creek OHV Park near Oskaloosa; first responders transported her to Mahaska Health. Community Nutrition: Double Up Food Bucks Iowa marked 10 years, reporting 210,292 families served and nearly $5.85 million redeemed for fruits and vegetables.

Food Safety: Whole Foods recalled jalapeño products after a Mexico pepper supplier was linked to a multistate salmonella outbreak; affected items sold in Iowa and other states include select salsas, guacamole, pico de gallo and prepared foods with “best before/by” dates in mid-August, and no illnesses were reported. Medicaid Oversight: Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird announced the Medicaid Fraud Elimination Task Force held its second meeting, setting up work groups aimed at reducing waste, abuse and fraud in the state’s Medicaid program. Rural Health Access: Montgomery County Memorial Hospital approved acquiring Dental Care, PC to open a downtown rural health clinic with integrated dental, primary and urgent care (behavioral health planned later), targeting early 2027. School Nutrition: Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig opened applications for the permanent Choose Iowa Local Food for Schools Program, offering $200,000 for Iowa-grown food purchases with a 1:1 match requirement. Public Health Events: Veterans Memorial Hospital will offer free heart health trivia plus quick blood pressure, blood sugar and hemoglobin (iron) testing at Waukon Corn Days Aug. 14. Injury & Safety: A Missouri woman, Emily Turner, died after an ATV crash at Bluff Creek OHV Park near Oskaloosa; investigators say she was thrown after losing control. Caregiving & Aging: A rural Leland man with dementia, Ralph Westerberg, was found safe and is being transported for medical evaluation.

Blood Supply Alert: LifeServe Blood Center says blood donations are down and it now has only a 1–2 day supply of several types, urging Iowans to book appointments this week to avoid shortages. Public Health: Measles has been confirmed in Iowa and Lafayette counties, with health officials warning of possible additional cases and urging people to check vaccination status and call ahead if sick. Care Access & Costs: A new report highlights how school resource officers in Iowa disproportionately arrest and refer Black students and students with disabilities, raising concerns about school safety practices. Community Health & Support: Iowa’s Honor Harvest food box program is expanding to connect rural veterans with locally grown food through Choose Iowa partners. Local Health Infrastructure: Sioux City’s neonatal intensive care unit is getting new retinal cameras to improve care for newborns. Health & Wellness at Home: An Iowa nurse practitioner advises families to shift kids’ bedtimes gradually ahead of the start of school and practice routines to reduce stress. Health Care Business: Calvin Community in Des Moines was sold for $4.5 million to a Florida entity, as legal disputes over unpaid bills and a prior investor lawsuit continue.

Measles Alert: Wisconsin health officials confirmed two new measles cases tied to Iowa County and Lafayette County, warning more exposures may be out there since not everyone gets tested. Workplace Safety: Gov. Reynolds proclaimed Aug. 10-14 as Safe + Sound Week, urging Iowa employers to strengthen hazard-finding and worker participation to prevent injuries and illness. Cardiac Care in the Spotlight: Pop star Rod Stewart canceled Iowa-area dates after a coronary stent procedure, with doctors advising four weeks of recovery. Rural Health Check-In: Sanford Sheldon Medical Center earned a “deficiency-free” hospital survey from Iowa’s DIAL, a positive sign for critical access hospital compliance. Healthcare Leadership: Risant Health named former Presbyterian CEO Dale Maxwell as interim CEO, with a start date of Aug. 17. Community Health Systems: Emplify Health by Gundersen Palmer Lutheran Hospital and Clinics was recognized by the American Heart Association for heart disease and stroke care quality programs. Public Health Watch: A CDC-linked Candida auris update highlights rising drug-resistant fungal cases across the U.S., especially in healthcare settings.

Food as medicine for veterans: Iowa launched the Honor Harvest pilot, delivering weekly boxes of fresh, locally grown produce, meat and dairy to 40 eligible rural veterans receiving care at the Iowa City VA, aiming to help manage diet-related conditions like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and obesity while boosting Iowa farmers. Pediatric care access: Jefferson City Medical Group added two pediatricians, Dr. Emily Garrison and Dr. Chase Chapman, to expand preventive and chronic care and offer more same-day appointments for families. Rural health and community dining: Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center in Hiawatha is debuting a farm-to-table “Prairie Table” dinner series using ingredients grown or foraged on its land. Public health food safety: A national recall expanded for ready-to-eat deli meats over possible Listeria, and a separate salmonella-linked jalapeño recall spread to major retailers, including stores in Iowa. Healthcare workforce and coverage stress: A former Iowa State graduate student sued alleging discrimination and harassment after disclosing disabilities, and she also claims her insurance was revoked while on medical leave. Local safety incidents: A Coralville driver died after a collision with a semi, and a rollover on I-380 injured four people including a 5-month-old.

Nursing Home Oversight: A new Iowa audit says certified nursing home inspections are now happening about every 12 months on average, a big improvement from a 2024 finding that Iowa missed federal inspection timing—though Republicans question the audit’s credibility. Health Insurance Costs: U.S. Rep. Ashley Hinson unveiled a “Health Insurance Transparency for Patients Act” that would force insurers to publicly report denials, appeal outcomes, prior-authorization delays, and more—aimed at lowering healthcare costs in Iowa’s Senate race. Food as Medicine for Veterans: Iowa launched “Honor Harvest,” a seven-week pilot delivering weekly boxes of locally grown food to eligible rural veterans with diet-related conditions through the Iowa City VA. Caregiver Support: Cancer Support Community Iowa and NW Illinois at Gilda’s Club announced a free workshop for cancer caregivers, with in-person or virtual options in Davenport. Substance Use in Pregnancy: A DeWitt woman is working to create a sober living center for expecting and new mothers struggling with addiction, partnering with public health experts studying substance use during pregnancy. Public Health & Safety: Iowa’s nursing home inspection staffing and enforcement remain in focus as regulators and advocates push for better care access and accountability.

Medicaid Work Rules Clash: A new federal requirement to re-check Medicaid eligibility based on work, volunteering or school hours is putting many disabled Iowans at risk of losing coverage, with advocates warning the rules force people to choose between benefits and employment. Food Safety: USDA recalled more than 3,200 pounds of ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef in Iowa and other states due to possible Listeria contamination, urging people not to eat or serve affected products. Hospital Pricing: A new report highlights how hospital monopolies can drive up costs, showing the same knee replacement can cost dramatically more in less-competitive markets. Public Health & Water: A USGS study finds excess nutrients can linger in soil for years before polluting rivers, fueling algal blooms and oxygen-depleted “dead zones.” Elder Care Scrutiny: A Le Mars nursing home administrator faces allegations of elder abuse and financial exploitation in civil court filings. Care Access in Iowa: Iowa’s top hospital ranking continues, with UI Health Care named the state’s top hospital for the 37th straight year. Community Health Funding: HOMEBANK grants support a new cancer center in Kirksville and senior housing rebuilding in Knox County.

Hospital Rankings: UI Health Care Medical Center was named Iowa’s top hospital for the 37th straight year by U.S. News & World Report, with nationally ranked adult specialties including ophthalmology and obstetrics/gynecology. Cancer Prevention: A $15 million federal grant will fund a rural Iowa radon “Combat Cancer” initiative over five years, aiming to expand radon testing, mitigation, and training—since radon is linked to lung cancer risk. Food Safety: City Foods, Inc. recalled about 3,215 pounds of ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef shipped to foodservice locations in Illinois, Iowa, and Michigan after routine inspection found possible Listeria contamination; no illnesses were confirmed. Public Health Alerts: Health officials are urging Gulf Coast caution as warm-water bacteria Vibrio vulnificus cases rise, with Louisiana reporting nine cases this year and multiple deaths. Local Health Tech: Sioux City’s NICU received new retinal cameras to support newborn eye screening. Community & Wellness: Rural and community groups are also pushing mental health supports and caregiver well-being through local events and training.

Hospital pricing power: A new look at knee-replacement costs shows how hospital mergers can leave patients paying far more when competition is thin. Blood shortage push: Iowa’s LifeServe says donations are down sharply among people under 30, with summer demand rising; Gov. Kim Reynolds urged Iowans to donate. NICU upgrade: Sioux City’s UnityPoint St. Luke’s added retinal imaging cameras to improve vision screening for premature and medically fragile newborns. Caregiver support: Seasons Center for Behavioral Health in northwest Iowa is offering a free virtual resilience training for foster and adoptive caregivers. Food safety recalls: City Foods, Inc. recalled ready-to-eat pastrami and corned beef over possible listeria contamination; separate recalls also flagged jalapeño products tied to salmonella risk. Waterborne illness watch: Cyclosporiasis updates show cases rising in multiple states, with CDC and FDA continuing to track likely produce sources. Community health access: Compass Memorial Healthcare highlighted Medicare counseling and reported major community benefits in 2025.