AGP Executive Report

Infant Health Alert (Puerto Rico): The Puerto Rico Department of Health confirmed an infant botulism case and says treatment with BabyBIG was requested May 28 and administered May 29, after symptoms were first reported May 27—CDC testing detected botulinum toxin type A in a stool sample. Severe Dengue Training (PAHO/CDC + PR): PAHO, CDC, and the PR Department of Health held a June 5–6 workshop to boost ICU readiness for severe dengue and prevent deaths, sharing tools and reviewing fatal-case care gaps. Fertility & Child Development (NIH/ECHO): A large NIH study using data from 15,382 mother-child pairs across 44 sites (including Puerto Rico) found small learning/behavior differences tied to underlying fertility challenges, with higher odds of autism diagnosis, while finding no link between IVF itself and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Lung Disease Monitoring (Research): UTHealth Houston researchers report that an oral swab can detect hidden systemic inflammation in primary ciliary dyskinesia, pointing to better ways to track disease progression and response to anti-inflammatory care. Public Health at Mass Gatherings (World Cup): Experts warn that as World Cup crowds move through airports, hotels, and stadiums, the most likely health threats include measles, dengue, respiratory viruses, and sexually transmitted infections already circulating. Quality & Care Workforce (Puerto Rico connection): The AKC Canine Health Foundation announced its first Cornell sports medicine and rehabilitation resident, Dr. Gabriela Medrano—originally from San Juan—aimed at improving mobility and quality of life for athletic and working dogs.

Infant Health Alert: Puerto Rico’s Health Department confirmed an infant botulism case and says life-saving BabyBIG immunoglobulin was requested and given within about 48 hours, after CDC testing found botulinum toxin type A in a stool sample. Maternal & Child Development Research: NIH-funded ECHO research (including Puerto Rico sites) reports small learning and behavior differences in children linked to parental fertility challenges, while finding no direct harm signal from IVF itself—pointing to underlying subfertility instead. Chronic Lung Care: UTHealth Houston researchers say a simple oral swab can detect hidden systemic inflammation in primary ciliary dyskinesia, a rare lung disease, potentially improving monitoring and treatment planning. Public Health & Food Safety: A report highlights SNAP benefits being paid to deceased people—raising fraud and oversight concerns that can affect nutrition support systems. Local Health System Watch: A U.S. bankruptcy judge authorized the sale of Hospital del Maestro as part of its restructuring, a major step for Puerto Rico’s hospital landscape.

Hospital Restructuring: A U.S. bankruptcy judge in Puerto Rico authorized the sale of Hospital del Maestro, clearing a key step in its 2025 restructuring; the proposed deal is valued at $15.6 million and shifts administrative and governance control to González Group LLC. Public Health & Access: Puerto Rico hit its lowest child poverty rate in more than 30 years, falling from 58% (2022) to 52% (2024), with 248,000 children still living below the poverty line—an issue that can directly shape health outcomes. Behavioral Health Funding: The U.S. added Mississippi to a Medicaid demonstration for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, expanding mental health and substance use treatment and recovery supports—relevant as Puerto Rico and other jurisdictions watch how Medicaid models scale care. Infection Risk Watch: Dengue risk is rising in San Antonio and South Texas as mosquito activity and World Cup travel increase the chance of imported cases sparking local spread; Puerto Rico’s Caribbean context makes this a timely reminder for mosquito control and prevention. Community Health & Pride: The Puerto Rican Cultural Center was named Chicago Pride Parade’s “Out Front” honoree, highlighting long-running LGBTQ+ health and social services work.

Healthcare Operations: A new piece on making healthcare lighting retrofits work says the real challenge isn’t the fixtures—it’s scheduling, logistics, and tight coordination with clinical staff to avoid disruptions while still capturing energy and rebate benefits. Cancer Community: St. Croix’s Relay for Life marked its 25th anniversary with survivors and volunteers, reporting more than $200,000 raised toward a $300,000 goal and spotlighting ovarian cancer survivor Wendy Graham’s message of hope. Public Health Policy: Hawaiʻi Attorney General Anne Lopez is co-leading a 19-state push urging Formula 1 and the FIA to end tobacco and nicotine sponsorships, warning nicotine pouches could normalize addiction for young fans. Clinical Research: Institut Pasteur launched ACT-CHIK, a €15.3M, four-year project to accelerate chikungunya vaccine clinical trials in Africa and prepare for local manufacturing. Local Health Workforce: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduated 19 new doctors, underscoring Puerto Rico’s ongoing physician retention needs. Maternal Health: A U.S. Senate bill would expand grants for maternal mental health and substance use support, including workforce growth and stigma reduction.

Chikungunya Vaccine Push: Institut Pasteur launched ACT-CHIK, a €15.3M, four-year EU-funded project to speed chikungunya vaccine clinical trials in Africa and prepare local manufacturing, targeting a measles-virus-based candidate (MV-CHIK) through a large Phase Ib/III study. Cancer Care Update (PR-linked trial): New peer-reviewed results in The Lancet Oncology report that aglatimagene besadenovec plus valacyclovir added to radiotherapy improved disease-free survival in localized prostate cancer, with trial sites including Puerto Rico. Maternal Health Legislation: Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand introduced the “Moms Matter Act” to expand grants for maternal mental health and substance-use support, including workforce growth and stigma reduction. Water Access in Puerto Rico: Puerto Rico expanded emergency potable water distribution in northern communities, adding National Guard tanker trucks and high-capacity deliveries to keep service moving while PRASA recovery continues. UPR Financial Oversight: Puerto Rico’s oversight board certified its own revised fiscal plan for the University of Puerto Rico after rejecting the government’s proposal under PROMESA, citing major deficit and debt risks without reforms. Public Health & Safety: A Medicare fraud prevention reminder urged beneficiaries to watch for suspicious charges and unsolicited calls, while a serious multi-vehicle crash and a fatal private jet accident in the Dominican Republic highlighted ongoing emergency response needs. Local Tragedy: Puerto Rican influencer Michael Flores shared grief after his 5-year-old niece died following an incident at a pool in Salinas, with authorities investigating circumstances.

Medicare Fraud Prevention Week: The Senior Medicare Patrol is urging people with Medicare in Puerto Rico and beyond to watch for fake calls, check Medicare Summary Notices/Explanation of Benefits for odd charges, and report suspected scams to local SMP (1-877-808-2468). Cardiometabolic Research: Amgen shared new ADA 86th Scientific Sessions data showing Repatha reduced major cardiovascular events in high-risk diabetes patients, adding to the push for better diabetes and cholesterol care. Obesity & Menopause: Eli Lilly reported post-hoc trial analyses that Foundayo (orforglipron) was linked to meaningful weight loss across menopause stages, including women with type 2 diabetes. Home Infusion Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network to expand intravenous therapy administration at home in Puerto Rico, aiming to reduce ER visits and improve care transitions. Local Health Access & Workforce: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduated 19 new doctors as Puerto Rico faces physician retention challenges, while Fort Buchanan’s clinic enhanced readiness with a new Thrive therapy program. Food Safety: Federal recalls flagged Salmonella risks and other serious issues, with special attention for island supply chains. Public Funding for Nutrition: Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner said the U.S. House approved FY2027 funding that includes PAN nutrition support and community projects. Health Incident: Authorities reported a niece of influencer Michael Flores died after an incident at a pool in Salinas, with interviews underway.

GLP-1 & Women’s Health: Eli Lilly reported new analyses on Foundayo (orforglipron) showing significant weight loss for women at every menopause stage, including those with type 2 diabetes—an update that could matter for Puerto Rico’s obesity and cardiometabolic care. Medicare Advantage Watch: KFF outlined what to expect in 2026 for Medicare Advantage, including premiums, out-of-pocket limits, supplemental benefits, and prior authorization—useful for patients navigating coverage choices. Food Safety Alerts: Federal recalls flagged Salmonella risks and other serious grocery issues, with guidance to check labels and act fast to reduce foodborne illness exposure. Water Safety in Puerto Rico: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company launched SwimSafe P.R. 2.0, expanding real-time beach and waterway safety tools to support prevention and safer recreation. Local Access to Care: Alivia Health expanded home infusion services via a specialized nursing network, aiming to reduce unnecessary ER visits by bringing IV therapies to patients when appropriate. Community Health & Compliance: DACO said inspections found no proof behind social media claims about supermarkets hiding expiration dates, while continuing active surveillance.

Home Infusion Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network under Alivia Infusion Services to deliver IV therapies and specialized medications at home in Puerto Rico, aiming to reduce avoidable ER visits and improve care transitions. Water Safety Push: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new tech and real-time beach and waterway safety info to support prevention and safer recreation. Hospital Upgrade: Mayagüez Medical Center–San Antonio Hospital began a $6.2M renovation to modernize patient rooms, the Pediatric ICU, delivery room, and operating rooms. Food Safety Alerts: Federal regulators and major retailers issued urgent Salmonella-related recalls tied to grocery items, urging shoppers to check packaging and batch details. Community Nutrition Funding: Puerto Rico’s Resident Commissioner said the U.S. House approved FY2027 funding that protects PAN and includes community and agricultural project money for the island. Local Health Access: OMNI Healthcare added trauma surgeon Dr. Edgar Figueroa, highlighting continued investment in expanding access to care.

Home-Based Care Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network to strengthen Alivia Infusion Services, bringing IV therapies and specialized medications to patients’ homes in Puerto Rico to reduce ER visits and improve care continuity. Hospital Upgrades in the West: Mayagüez started a $6.2M renovation at San Antonio Hospital, targeting patient rooms, the Pediatric ICU, delivery room, and operating rooms to modernize services for thousands. Water Safety for Families: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new tech and real-time info to help residents and visitors make safer choices at beaches and waterways. Public Health Readiness: A World Cup public health prep report highlights drills and coordination for outbreaks and extreme conditions—relevant for Puerto Rico’s own emergency planning mindset. Workforce & Access Context: Puerto Rico’s labor market update points to a record-low unemployment rate, while officials push reintegration into the workforce. Community Health Watch: DACO says supermarket expiration-date complaints are under active surveillance, with inspectors reporting no irregularities so far.

Home Infusion Expansion: Alivia Health launched a specialized nursing network to expand Alivia Infusion Services for intravenous therapies and specialized medications delivered at home in Puerto Rico, aiming to improve safety, coordination, and reduce avoidable ER visits. Hospital Upgrade: Mayagüez started a $6.2M renovation at San Antonio Hospital, including upgrades to patient rooms, the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, delivery room, and operating rooms. Water Safety: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new technology and real-time info to strengthen beach and waterway safety across the island. Medicare/Medicaid Fraud: Four Puerto Rico pharmacies agreed to pay $4.6M in federal settlements over allegations of dispensing diverted drugs billed to Medicare and Medicaid, raising patient-safety concerns. Consumer Protection: DACO said it’s monitoring supermarkets and other retailers after expired-product complaints, and also launched hurricane-season inspections across 400+ businesses. Wild Hog Control: Puerto Rico enacted Law 102-2026 to let farmers get special non-sport hunting permits when wild hogs damage crops, supporting food security and public health.

Consumer Protection: DACO says recent social media claims about supermarkets hiding or removing expiration dates and selling damaged goods don’t match what inspectors found in follow-up visits, but it will keep monitoring. Hurricane Readiness: DACO also launched a 2026 hurricane-season enforcement push, inspecting 400+ businesses (including pharmacies and emergency-supply retailers) for labeling, availability, and price trends. Healthcare Compliance: Four Puerto Rico pharmacies agreed to pay $4.6M in federal Medicare/Medicaid fraud settlements tied to diverted drugs with unverified origins—authorities warn this can threaten patient safety. Local Health Infrastructure: Mayagüez started a $6.2M renovation at San Antonio Hospital, upgrading patient rooms, the Pediatric ICU, delivery, and operating rooms. Water Safety: The Puerto Rico Tourism Company rolled out SwimSafe P.R. 2.0 with new tools for real-time water-safety info across beaches and waterways. Public Health & Access: Puerto Rico’s broader healthcare ecosystem also gets attention as Fort Buchanan’s Rodriguez Army Health Clinic expands rehab access through the Sword Thrive program. Mental Health Funding (Elsewhere, Policy Signal): Hawaiʻi was selected for a Medicaid behavioral health demonstration expanding community behavioral health clinic services.

Reconstruction Funding Pressure: Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera grilled DHS over long-delayed Puerto Rico recovery money, saying billions remain stuck in FEMA bureaucracy and projects won’t finish until 2051 at the current pace. LGBTQ+ Health Access: Chicago Pride’s “Out Front” lead is the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, highlighting its Vida/SIDA wraparound services, including HIV testing and linkage to medical care. Nutrition Assistance Clarity: Puerto Rico’s Family Department says PAN recertification is resuming as a federal requirement, stressing benefits won’t be canceled arbitrarily for eligible participants. Workforce & Training: UPR Medical Sciences Campus graduated 134 specialists/subspecialists and swore in 96 new physicians, with most planning to stay in Puerto Rico. Military Rehab Innovation: Fort Buchanan’s Rodriguez Army Health Clinic is expanding Sword Thrive, a home-based rehab program designed to speed return to duty. Health Equity Spotlight: New reporting highlights how Black and Latina women face higher misdiagnosis rates and medical debt burdens, tying disparities to worse outcomes and care access gaps. Conservation Health Link: Detroit Zoo volunteers shipped 6,855 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Manatí to support the species’ recovery.

Conservation & Public Health: The Detroit Zoo is sending 6,855 critically endangered Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Río Encantado in Manatí as part of a long-running reintroduction effort, highlighting how healthy local ecosystems support community well-being. Local Health Services: The University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus graduated 134 specialists and swore in 96 new physicians and six scientists, with most new doctors expected to stay in Puerto Rico for training. Food Security: Puerto Rico’s Family Department says PAN benefits will continue for eligible participants; the agency clarifies the current recertification is a federally required annual process, not an abrupt cancellation. Care Access & Workforce: Fort Buchanan’s Rodriguez Army Health Clinic is expanding the Sword Thrive remote rehab program, using guided home exercises and clinician oversight to help service members recover on their own schedules. Health Equity (U.S. lens): A report highlights why Black and Latina women can face higher misdiagnosis rates and medical bills, pointing to disparities in emergency care and outcomes.

PAN Recertification Reassurance: Puerto Rico’s Department of the Family says Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN) benefits will continue for eligible participants, clarifying that the ongoing review is the federally required annual recertification process—not a new policy or mass removals. Federal Funding Push: Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera highlights a FY2027 House appropriations bill that could bring major dollars to Puerto Rico, including about $3.06B for PAN, alongside support for agriculture, emergency preparedness, and community development. Local Food Security Calendar: SNAP payment schedules for June 2026 are rolling out across the U.S., with dates set by each state—relevant for families relying on nutrition assistance. Health Workforce Pipeline: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduates 19 new doctors as Puerto Rico continues tackling physician retention challenges. Community Health & Care: Puerto Rico’s missing-person reporting is being pursued in court after journalists say authorities provided incomplete information, raising concerns about how cases are tracked. Wellness Beyond Clinics: Detroit Zoo is sending 6,855 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Manatí to support recovery of the critically endangered species.

Household Financial Stress: A new report highlights how rising living costs are hitting worker focus and productivity, with many employees spending work time dealing with personal money worries. PAN Recertification Reassurance: Puerto Rico’s Department of the Family says Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN) benefits will continue while the federally required annual recertification resumes gradually after emergency waivers. Nutrition & Agriculture Funding Push: Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández Rivera says a fiscal year 2027 U.S. appropriations package could bring major support for Puerto Rico’s nutrition assistance, agriculture, and emergency preparedness. Long-Term Care Watch: CMS data points to Puerto Rico’s broader nursing-home staffing and quality pressures, while the island continues to face physician retention challenges. Species Conservation: Detroit Zoo is sending nearly 7,000 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Manatí to support recovery of the critically endangered amphibian. Healthcare Workforce Pipeline: A separate U.S. medical education move notes Puerto Rico-based Ponce Health Sciences University was among bidders for Delaware’s first medical school—underscoring regional competition for training capacity. Public Access & Accountability: Puerto Rico journalists say they often must sue to obtain public records, including data tied to missing persons and deaths.

Physician Workforce & Training: Hospital Auxilio Mutuo graduated 19 new doctors from its 2025-2026 rotating internship program, highlighting Puerto Rico’s ongoing physician retention push through specialty residencies and local career pathways. Cancer Research (Puerto Rico in the trial mix): A multicenter phase 3 study reported in The Lancet Oncology found that adding adenoviral immunotherapy CAN-2409 (aglatimagene besadenovec) to standard radiation improved disease-free survival for intermediate- to high-risk localized prostate cancer; the trial enrolled patients across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Healthcare Safety for Minors: District III (Arecibo) Sen. Brenda Pérez Soto introduced SB 1301 to strengthen protections during individual therapeutic interventions, including allowing parents/guardians to request audio/video recording when the patient is alone with the professional. Public Health & Access (Policy): Lawmakers are moving to require Medicaid parity talks and examine consent-of-the-governed issues for U.S. territories, with Puerto Rico repeatedly referenced in the broader healthcare access debate. Community Health & Wellness: AARP Puerto Rico warns inflation is still squeezing retirees’ ability to afford essentials like food and medicine, even with a 2.6% 2026 Social Security COLA. Conservation with Health Links: The Detroit Zoo shipped 6,855 Puerto Rican crested toad tadpoles to Manatí’s Rio Encantado as part of a long-running reintroduction effort for a critically endangered species.