Healthcare

MDHHS Launches Phase 2 Juvenile Justice Bed Management Tool

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced the launch of phase 2 enhancements to its statewide Juvenile Justice Bed Management Tool. These updates aim to streamline youth placement coordination, improve real-time reporting, and enhance residential treatment matching.

MDHHS Seeks Proposals for Firefighter Health Screenings

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is seeking proposals for a grant opportunity to provide preventive health screenings for firefighters. A total of $3.5 million is available over three years to fund qualified entities for early detection of occupational illnesses.

MDHHS Director Visits Behavioral Health Facilities

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Elizabeth Hertel visited Hegira Health and Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network facilities to discuss expanding access to behavioral health care. The visit highlighted investments in psychiatric residential treatment facilities and crisis care campuses, including a $60 million appropriation for DWIHN's Integrated Crisis Care Campus.

LDH Launches Project M.O.M. Catalyst Sites for Mothers

The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has launched Project M.O.M. (Maternal Overdose Mortality), establishing 11 "catalyst site" hospitals. This initiative aims to improve health outcomes for mothers affected by substance use disorder and their babies by enhancing care coordination and access to treatment.

Louisiana SNAP Waiver Restricts Sugary Drinks and Candy

The Louisiana Department of Health has implemented a SNAP waiver, effective February 18, 2026, that removes sugary drinks and candy from the list of eligible purchases. This waiver, approved by the USDA, aims to promote healthier food choices among SNAP beneficiaries and reduce diet-related health issues.

OPH Engineering Services Launches Public Records Portal

The Louisiana Department of Health's Office of Public Health's Bureau of Engineering Services has launched a new online portal, RIMS, for public access to engineering records. This portal aims to improve transparency and customer service by allowing direct access to inspection reports, sample results, and permitting documents.

Medicaid Member Plan Changes

Louisiana Medicaid has updated its policy regarding member plan changes. Effective March 1, 2026, members can switch health or dental plans at any time, with a limit of two changes per calendar year. This change aims to provide greater flexibility for Medicaid beneficiaries in selecting their healthcare coverage.

Legislative Oversight Committee Reports Submitted

The Louisiana Department of Health has submitted the March 2026 Legislative Oversight Committee reports. These reports were filed in accordance with state statute R.S. 49:968(D)(1)(b)(c).

Water Advisories Lifted for Charles and Prince George's Counties

Maryland health officials announced that recreational water advisories have been lifted for Charles and Prince George's counties due to improved water quality following a sewage spill. Advisories remain in effect for Montgomery County. Public drinking water is unaffected.

Maryland Proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month March 2026

The Governor of Maryland has proclaimed March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This proclamation highlights the state's commitment to inclusive environments and equal opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.