Latest news with #ArizonaDepartmentofHealthServices
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Do wildfires cause bad air quality? How bad is it for you? Here's what Arizonans must know
Wildfires in Arizona can send smoke drifting across the state and cause uncomfortable health issues for residents. JoAnna Strother, Phoenix-based regional senior director of advocacy at the American Lung Association, said smoke can travel in the air hundreds of thousands of miles. "Even if the wildfire might be in Nevada, California, it can still impact us here in Arizona," Strother said. The way smoke travels depends on wind patterns and whether there's rain or cloud cover. Arizona Department of Environmental Quality meteorologist Matthew Pace said smoke in the day and smoke at night move differently. In the Arizona daytime, Pace explained, light-to moderate smoke moves northeast. The biggest concern looms at night, as fire smoke drops to the ground because temperatures are cooler, Pace said. "Smoke is particulate matter that's 2.5 microns and smaller, so essentially 20 times smaller than the human hair," Pace said. "Those, obviously, when you're breathing them, they can go further down into your lungs." The Arizona Department of Health Services states small particles in the wildfire smoke cause: Burning eyes. Runny nose. Scratchy throat. Headaches. Illness such as bronchitis. The Health Department also warns wildfire smoke worsens these preexisting conditions: Heart disease. Lung disease. Asthma. Emphysema. COPD. Children and the elderly are also at risk. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality lists three levels of precaution: Level 1: Stay smoke-aware (no smoke, to haze, to light smoke, to smoke in the vicinity). Level 2: Minimize outdoor activities (smoke in the vicinity, from patchy smoke to widespread moderate smoke). Level 3: Stay inside (heavy to dense smoke). The department's website includes forecasts on wildfire smoke when air quality could be impacted, and it also offers hourly updated air quality reports for different Arizona cities. Phoenix. Tucson. Yuma. Flagstaff. Prescott. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How bad is breathing in wildfire smoke? What to know in Arizona
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Two top Arizona health officials resign amid ‘unprecedented politicization' of process
Katie Hobbs in February 2023. Photo by Gage Skidmore (modified) | Flickr/CC BY-SA 2.0 Two of Arizona's top public health officials have resigned rather than face an acrimonious confirmation process at the legislature, where Republicans have used agency director hearings to play hardball politics with Gov. Katie Hobbs and stymie her government. On Wednesday, Hobbs announced that Jennie Cunico, the director of the Arizona Department of Health Services, and Carmen Heredia, who heads Arizona's Health Care Cost Containment System, the state's Medicaid program, have stepped down from their positions. Heredia was scheduled to go before the state Senate's Committee on Director Nominations for consideration on Thursday. In her announcement, Hobbs blamed the Republican majority for co-opting the confirmation process to attack her nominations on political grounds. 'Unfortunately, the Senate's unprecedented politicization of the director confirmation process has ended the directorship of two healthcare professionals who have made our state government run more efficiently and more effectively,' she said in a written statement. 'The people of Arizona are tired of the relentless politics that has undermined good governance in the name of partisan retribution. It should not matter whether the leaders of our state government are Democrats or Republicans; it should matter that our state is run by public servants who do what's right for everyday people.' SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Under Arizona law, the governor's agency picks are required to be vetted and approved or rejected by the state Senate. The process has historically been uneventful, with candidates facing interviews from lawmakers on committees relevant to the agencies they've been chosen for, but Hobbs' election prompted Republicans to set up an entirely new committee to vet her choices. And that has resulted in aggressive, hourslong interrogations that more closely resemble federal confirmation hearings. After several of her candidates resigned or were shot down for political reasons, Hobbs attempted to circumvent the process by appointing them as executive directors. Cunico was appointed in 2023, following the withdrawn nomination of her predecessor, former Pima County Health Director Dr. Theresa Cullen, who underwent a contentious hearing that focused on her handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Heredia was appointed in late 2022. But a failed court battle over the legality of Hobbs' actions meant the duo would eventually need to win approval from the state Senate to continue serving in their roles. Both Heredia and Cunico cited the contentious confirmation process in their resignation letters as the reason for their decisions to step down, despite their desire to continue working in public health. 'Serving the people of Arizona — especially our most vulnerable — has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life,' Heredia wrote. 'However, it has become increasingly difficult to carry out this mission in good faith under the current political climate. I am deeply concerned about the escalating politicization of state agency leadership roles under the Republican-led Legislature. The intrusion of partisan agendas that drag professionals through career damaging hearings is not an effective way to attract and retain qualified people in these critical roles and has made it increasingly challenging to serve Arizona agencies effectively.' 'It is clear to me that there is no path forward to confirmation,' echoed Cunico. Cunico, whose confirmation hearing hadn't yet been scheduled, had already faced criticism for a Child Fatality Report that recommended increasing gun safety regulations and advised parents to remove firearms to prevent gun-related deaths. Republican lawmakers accused the department of public health of advocating for 'stripping Arizonans of their Second Amendment rights.' While Cunico was not a part of the team that developed that report, it's likely that, as the figurehead of the state's public health department, the topic would have been brought up during her confirmation. Republicans celebrated the resignations. Sen. Jake Hoffman, a Republican from Queen Creek who chairs the Director Nominations Committee and who also heads the legislature's far-right Arizona Freedom Caucus, said they are a 'testament' to the work done by lawmakers to ensure candidates are the best choice for Arizonans. Hoffman denounced Heredia for what he said was 'mismanagement' of the state's Medicaid program and blamed her for the sober home living fraud that targeted Arizona's indigenous community and cost taxpayers $2.5 billion. 'Arizona is in the middle of a monumental Medicaid fraud crisis with a loss of more than $2 billion in taxpayer dollars,' he wrote. 'Under Katie Hobbs' leadership, Heredia's response has been incredibly disturbing, to say the least.' That widespread fraudulent scheme, under which behavioral health and addiction treatment facilities lured and neglected patients to obtain Medicaid reimbursements, began in 2019 and went unchecked by Republican Gov. Doug Ducey's administration. In a bid to clean up the mess and crackdown on fraudulent sober living homes, some legitimate businesses have had their payments suspended by AHCCCS. But officials have said that a process exists to release those payments and the department has sought to correct mistakes when they occur. Hoffman vowed to continue pushing for stringent reviews of Hobbs' candidates. 'Since its inception, the Committee on Director Nominations has been committed to honestly, thoroughly, and accurately vetting Katie Hobbs' nominees,' he wrote. 'We have served as Arizonans' last line of defense against incompetent, unqualified, and highly partisan picks to lead state agencies.' SUPPORT: YOU MAKE OUR WORK POSSIBLE
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Arizona cases of the same virus that killed Gene Hackman's wife were fatal in 2025
The two positive cases of Hantavirus in Arizona for 2025 have been fatal, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services. These fatalities follow four Hantavirus-related deaths in Arizona in 2024 and come just days after the death of Betsy Arakawa in New Mexico, the pianist and wife of actor Gene Hackman, who passed away from the virus shortly before her husband. "Although contracting the virus is rare, 38% of cases are fatal," ADHS spokesperson Magda Rodriguez said. In addition to the 2025 infection data, the health department provided The Arizona Republic updated figures on positive 2024 Hantavirus cases. Hantavirus causes a potentially fatal illness known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, which can lead to fever, muscle aches, and difficulty breathing. The ADHS reports that Arizona had 11 confirmed cases of Hantavirus in 2024, five of which were fatal. Most of the cases were in northern Arizona, with five in Apache County, three in Coconino County, two in Navajo County, and one in Pima County. Seven of the cases were residents of the Navajo Nation, where the most common strain of the virus first emerged and led to a historic outbreak in 1993. Hantavirus is typically spread by wild rodents like the deer mouse, though the virus is not exclusively transmitted by these animals, according to ADHS. Despite recent headlines, the health department reassures that "Hantavirus is a rare disease." Since 1990, the reported cases per 100,000 Arizonans have remained between 0% and 0.2%. However, the virus is not confined to one area and can be found throughout the Southwest. Hantavirus is usually spread from rodents through viral droplets agitated from stirring up material contaminated with rodent urine, saliva or feces, according ADHS. "Most Hantavirus exposure is due to residential rodent infestation. Additionally, people can be exposed when entering unused buildings, and coming in contact with rodent burrows outdoors," said the spokesperson. The virus is not spread from person to person. ADHS stated that there is no vaccine for Hantavirus, and treatment only involves supportive care for symptoms, which can appear 1-8 weeks after exposure. A positive infection leading to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome may cause symptoms such as fatigue, fever, muscle aches, dizziness, chills, diarrhea, vomiting, cough, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing, according to ADHS. ADHS provided the public the following tips to prevent the spread of Hantavirus and a possible case of Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. Reduce rodent habitats around the home, work, and recreational environments. Remove brush, rock piles, firewood, and possible food sources. Eliminate or minimize contact with rodents in the home by sealing holes and gaps in homes or garages, placing traps in and around homes, and cleaning up any easy-to-get food. If you suspect rodent activity in/around your home: Avoid actions that raise dust, such as sweeping or vacuuming and take precaution when cleaning areas where rodents may be present Before cleaning an area suspected of contamination, open all doors and windows. Ventilate the space by airing it out for 30 minutes and leave the area during this time. Use a 10% bleach solution and spray down areas where rodent/mouse droppings or nests are found and allow the solution to soak for at least 15 minutes to kill the virus. After disinfecting, wear rubber gloves and a mask to clean up the droppings with disposable materials such as paper towels or rags. Contact public health officials and seek medical care if you are experiencing signs of Hantavirus after possible exposure to areas with rodents or rodent droppings. Reach reporter Rey Covarrubias Jr. at rcovarrubias@ Follow him on X, Threads and Bluesky @ReyCJrAZ. This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Hantavirus cases in Arizona in 2025 have, to date, all been deadly
Yahoo
18-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Arizona lawmaker pushes bill to require hospitals to verify patient citizenship
The Brief Some Arizona lawmakers are trying to pass a law that would make hospitals receiving state funds ask patients about their citizenship status. The bill's sponsor, Sen. Wendy Rogers, says the bill aims to keep track of spending, but critics say it can deter people from seeking medical care. PHOENIX - Some Arizona lawmakers are working to pass a bill that would require any hospital that receives state funds to ask patients for their citizenship status. What we know The bill's sponsor, Republican Senator Wendy Rogers, is adamant that the information would not be turned over to immigration authorities. Rogers says the goal is to track how much the state is spending on healthcare for undocumented individuals. But, critics fear the data could be used against those who are in the U.S. illegally. "It really threatens the safety and wellbeing of patients and healthcare providers, and I vote no," Rep. Patricia Contreras said during a bill hearing. Rogers, however, voted for her bill to move forward. "We need to account for the dollars that are flowing out the door, and with that, I vote, aye," she said. The backstory Senate Bill 1268 would require hospitals receiving state funding to ask every patient for their citizenship status. The numbers would then be reported to the Arizona Department of Health Services quarterly. Rogers says this comes down to knowing where state funds are being spent. "America must come first. Yes, we are a wealthy nation. But, we won't remain wealthy if we keep giving everything away with no accountability," Rogers said. The bill says this would not impact patient care, nor pass along patients' names, addresses, or ages. It would keep a record of whether they're in the country legally or not. The other side Those against the bill fear the government could use the information against patients, deterring them from seeking care. "If someone is undocumented, or they have an undocumented family member or friend, and they know that the hospital is going to ask them questions about their citizenship, they are going to have the same question running through their head, which is, you know, 'Why are they asking this question? Where is this data going to go? Am I going to have an ICE agent knocking at my door just because I went to seek emergency medical care?'" Noah Schramm, policy strategist for ACLU of Arizona, said. Rogers says it's not her concern if someone doesn't seek care because of this. "It's not my job to determine if someone is dissuaded from care, especially if someone is not a citizen. The intent is to track the status and the cost," she said. Schramm fears it would allow the government to cut funding to hospitals with a high number of undocumented patients. "This is sort of being put in the category of pro-immigration enforcement," Schramm said. "This really isn't about immigration policy. It's about health care, and it's about people's fundamental right to access, you know, basic medical services, emergency services, regardless of their legal status in the country." Rogers' response? "They should stay home in their home country if they want to have care," she said. What's next The bill passed the Arizona Senate in February and got a 6-2 vote from the House health and human services committee on March 10. Florida is the only other state where this has been voted into law. If this becomes law in Arizona, patients can choose not to answer the question and those totals would also be recorded. SB 1268 is scheduled for a house caucus hearing on March 18.
Associated Press
17-03-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Nirvana Recovery Receives Arizona State License for Residential Treatment Center
Nirvana Recovery receives state license for its Phoenix residential treatment center, offering 24/7 evidence-based addiction care with aftercare plans. 'Securing our state license lets us provide 24/7 evidence-based care at our Phoenix residential treatment center, ensuring individuals feel supported and empowered on their path to lasting recovery.' — Michael Trychon [President of Nirvana Recovery] PHOENIX, AZ, UNITED STATES, March 17, 2025 / / -- Nirvana Recovery has received a residential treatment center license from the Arizona Department of Health Services. This license allows the facility to provide structured residential care for adults seeking treatment for substance use disorders while meeting state regulations for safety and quality. The licensing process ensures that facilities maintain the required standards to provide a secure and supportive treatment environment. As a recognized residential treatment center in Arizona dedicated to offering 24/7 support in a safe and stable environment. Adults in treatment receive individual counseling, group therapy, and medical supervision. The program uses effective methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These methods help residents build healthier habits, manage their emotions, and lower the risk of relapse. Beyond therapy, the center incorporates wellness activities such as meditation, exercise, and nutrition planning to support overall health. This approach addresses both physical and emotional well-being, creating a more comprehensive recovery experience. Family involvement is encouraged, as addiction affects loved ones as well. Family counseling sessions help repair relationships and improve communication, while educational programs teach family members how to provide effective support. Aftercare planning is a key part of Nirvana Recovery's approach. Each resident receives a personalized plan to help them transition back into daily life. This may include continued counseling, peer support groups, relapse prevention strategies, and referrals to community resources. These services help individuals stay on track and maintain long-term sobriety after leaving residential care. Nirvana Recovery's staff includes licensed addiction specialists, medical professionals, therapists, and support personnel. Their combined expertise ensures residents receive comprehensive, evidence-based care in line with state health and safety regulations. Along with its state license, Nirvana Recovery is a member of the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP), which promotes ethical and effective treatment practices. The facility is also working toward national accreditation from The Joint Commission, a leading organization in healthcare quality standards. These recognitions reflect the center's commitment to maintaining high-quality care. Licensed residential treatment centers play a vital role in addressing substance use disorders across Arizona. Facilities like Nirvana Recovery serve communities in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Scottsdale, and Glendale, providing structured, state-regulated care to adults seeking help. By offering professional treatment services, these centers contribute to Arizona's efforts to combat addiction and support public health. Expanding access to licensed treatment centers also reduces the burden on emergency services and law enforcement agencies that often respond to substance use-related incidents. By offering structured care, facilities like Nirvana Recovery improve treatment accessibility and provide long-term benefits for individuals, families, and the wider community. About Nirvana Recovery Nirvana Recovery is a state-licensed residential treatment center in Phoenix, Arizona, dedicated to providing comprehensive care for adults struggling with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The facility uses trauma-informed and evidence-based treatment. This ensures that each resident gets personalized care for their recovery needs. Nirvana Recovery is actively pursuing national accreditation from The Joint Commission to further reinforce its commitment to maintaining high standards in addiction treatment and patient safety. TikTok Legal Disclaimer:
