Healthcare Compliance

Georgia Composite Medical Board February 2025 Public Board Actions

The Georgia Composite Medical Board issued two public orders in February 2025. The first is a Public Consent Order against Linda Sue Arnold, MD, a physician holding license number 40299. The second is a Consent Agreement for Reinstatement involving Rena Laterice Keeby, PA-C, a physician assistant. Both orders are available for public viewing through the Board's document portal.

Pennsylvania Board of Medicine Professional Licensing Services Guide

The Pennsylvania Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs provides this overview of its professional licensing services through the PALS online portal, including application filing, license renewal, application status checks, and license verification. The document details the application process for professional licensure, which requires disclosure of any criminal history and may result in full licensure, probationary licensure, or provisional denial. Applicants with criminal convictions may be invited to an informal conference with the board's application committee and, if provisionally denied, have the right to a hearing before a hearing examiner where they may present evidence of rehabilitation.

Rhode Island Drug Overdose Data Update

The Rhode Island Department of Health has reported 55 non-fatal drug overdoses occurred in the state between March 10 and March 16. This data update provides situational awareness regarding the ongoing opioid crisis.

Iowa Safe Haven Law Reaches 80 Infants Since Inception

A baby girl born March 6 was surrendered under Iowa's Safe Haven Act and is now in the custody of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services. She will be placed with a foster family pending permanent adoption. This case brings the total number of infants surrendered under the law to 80 since it took effect more than two decades ago. Iowa HHS encourages interested individuals to visit the state foster and adoption portal to learn about becoming an approved family.

DEA Application for Bulk Manufacturer of Controlled Substances: Siegfried Grafton, Inc.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from Siegfried Grafton, Inc. to be registered as a bulk manufacturer of various controlled substances, including Schedule I and II drugs. The application is open for public comment and objections until May 18, 2026.

DEA: Application to Import Controlled Substances by Patheon API Services

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from Patheon API Services, Inc. to be registered as an importer of controlled substances, including Dimethyltryptamine, Psilocybin, Psilocyn, Amphetamine, and Methadone. The application is for research and development purposes.

DEA Notice: Pisgah Laboratories Inc Importer Application

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has issued a notice regarding an application from Pisgah Laboratories Inc. to be registered as an importer of controlled substances, specifically Phenylacetone, Ecgonine, Thebaine, and Tapentadol. The public comment period for this application closes on April 20, 2026.

DEA Notice: Importer Controlled Substances Application - Siegfried Grafton, Inc.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from Siegfried Grafton, Inc. to be registered as an importer of Schedule I controlled substances, including Gamma Hydroxybutyric Acid and Marihuana Extract. The public comment period for this application closes on April 20, 2026.

DEA Notice: United States Pharmacopeial Convention Application to Import Controlled Substances

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from the United States Pharmacopeial Convention to be registered as an importer of various controlled substances, including Schedule I and II drugs. The public has until April 20, 2026, to submit comments or request a hearing.

DEA Notice: SpecGx LLC Controlled Substances Importer Application

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from SpecGx LLC to be registered as an importer of controlled substances, including Phenylacetone, Coca Leaves, Thebaine, Opium, Poppy Straw Concentrate, and Tapentadol. Interested parties can submit comments or objections by April 20, 2026.

DEA Notice: Sterling Wisconsin LLC Controlled Substances Application

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has published a notice regarding an application from Sterling Wisconsin, LLC to be registered as a bulk manufacturer of various controlled substances, including Schedule I and II drugs. The public has until May 18, 2026, to submit comments or objections.

Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Center for Scientific Review has announced upcoming closed meetings. These meetings are scheduled for April 16, 2026, and involve discussions related to grant applications and review processes.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases; Closed Meeting Notice

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has published a notice regarding a closed meeting for the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. The meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2026. This notice serves as an informational announcement.

FDA Proposed Collection of Information on Premarket Notifications

The FDA has proposed a new collection of information regarding premarket notifications. This is a request for comments on the proposed collection, with a deadline of May 18, 2026.

FDA Draft Guidance on New Approach Methodologies in Drug Development

The FDA has issued draft guidance for industry on the use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in drug development. This guidance provides recommendations for sponsors on how to incorporate NAMs into their regulatory submissions. The comment period for this draft guidance closes on May 18, 2026.

Pennsylvania Delivers $6.6 Million to EMS Professionals

The Shapiro Administration has distributed $6.6 million from the EMS Operating Fund (EMSOF) to 13 Regional EMS Councils across Pennsylvania to recruit, train, and equip EMS professionals. Funding was included in the 2025-26 budget signed by Governor Josh Shapiro. The largest allocation of $1,061,632.88 went to EMS West, followed by $649,270.59 to the Emergency Health Services Federation. Remaining funds will support recruitment and retention initiatives, replacement of the EMS registry system, and pilot programs to improve emergency call responses.

WTC Health Program Denies Petition for Anti-GBM Glomerulonephritis

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a notice denying Petition 026 for the addition of Anti-Glomerular Basement Membrane (Anti-GBM) Glomerulonephritis to the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program. The agency found insufficient evidence to support its inclusion.

FDA Guidance on Physicochemical Characterization of Topical Drug Products

The FDA has issued final guidance for industry on the physicochemical and structural characterization of topical drug products submitted in Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs). This guidance, which finalizes a draft from October 2022, provides recommendations to support bioequivalence demonstrations for generic topical products.

FDA Economic Analysis of CDRH Submission Requirements

The FDA has published an economic analysis concerning the submission requirements for the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). This analysis provides insights into the economic impact of these requirements on medical device manufacturers.

FDA Document on Biochemical Changes in Red Blood Cells

The FDA has posted a document concerning biochemical changes in red blood cells. The document is available for review on Regs.gov, though specific details are restricted due to copyright.

FDA Radiology Devices Classification Regulatory Analysis

The FDA has published a regulatory analysis concerning the classification of radiology devices. This notice provides an overview of the agency's approach to classifying these medical devices, offering clarity to manufacturers and stakeholders.

FDA Medical Device User Fee Rates for FY 2024

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has posted the Medical Device User Fee rates for Fiscal Year 2024. This notice provides the updated fee schedule for medical device manufacturers.

FDA PRIA Reference SBA Size Standards Update

The FDA has posted an update regarding the Presolicitation Information and Analysis (PRIA) Reference, specifically concerning Small Business Administration (SBA) size standards. This notice updates the reference document used by the agency for certain regulatory processes.

FDA Guidance on EpCAM-Positive Cell Reduction by Filters

The FDA has issued guidance concerning the reduction of EpCAM-positive cells by filters. This document provides information relevant to drug manufacturers and medical device makers.

FDA PRIA Reference Data

The FDA has published reference data related to the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PRIA) for May 2024. This notice includes national employment data relevant to PRIA submissions. It serves as an informational update for regulated entities.

Rabid Bat Confirmed in Aiken County, One Pet Exposed

SC DPH confirmed that a bat found near Hiwassee Run and Three Runs Plantation Drive in Aiken, S.C. tested positive for rabies on March 17, 2026. No people are known to have been exposed. One dog was exposed and will be quarantined as required under the South Carolina Rabies Control Act. This is the second rabid animal confirmed in Aiken County in 2026 and the 18th statewide this year.

Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee Meeting March 20, 2026

The South Carolina Department of Public Health announces that the Trauma Advisory Council Data and PI Subcommittee will meet virtually on Friday, March 20, 2026, at 1 p.m. The meeting is open to the public and interested parties can access the agenda and Microsoft Teams link via the dedicated meeting event page. This is a standing subcommittee focused on trauma care data and performance improvement within South Carolina's emergency and trauma services system.

10 Hometown Health Heroes Honored for Michigan Public Health Week

The Michigan Public Health Week Partnership honored 10 individuals and organizations with the 2026 Hometown Health Hero Award at a ceremony in the State House Office Building on March 18, 2026. Awardees were recognized for contributions including expanded food access in Shiawassee County, maternal mental health coalition building, maternal-fetal health improvements at Henry Ford Health achieving a 37% reduction in persistent severe hypertension, nutrition initiatives in Detroit food swamps distributing over 8,000 meals, street outreach medical care in Detroit, domestic violence survivor services, and firefighter wellness programs. MDHHS director Elizabeth Hertel presented the awards as part of the state's Public Health Week observance.

MDHHS Public Hearing on 2026 DOE Weatherization Assistance Program State Plan

MDHHS announces a virtual public hearing on April 6, 2026 (2:00–2:30 PM ET) regarding its 2026 U.S. Department of Energy Weatherization Assistance Program State Plan, which covers July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027. The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments from interested Michigan residents about the plan. Written comments will be accepted through Friday, April 10, 2026. The 2026 state plan includes confirmation of subgrantees as determined by the 2025 statewide procurement, updated technical documents submitted to DOE, updated training and technical assistance plan, and updates throughout the State Plan and Health and Safety Plan.

Stream Advisory Issued for Tuttle Creek Cove Diesel Fuel Spill

KDHE has issued a stream advisory for the Tuttle Creek Cove on the Tuttle Creek Lake near Manhattan, Kansas following the release of diesel fuel from a tank on a commercial barge. USACE, EPA Region 7, and KDHE are assessing the extent of the spill to maintain minimal impact on the affected area. The public is advised to avoid the cove until recovery and remediation efforts have concluded and KDHE rescinds the advisory once water contact is deemed safe.

Boil Water Advisory Rescinded for White Cloud, Kansas

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of White Cloud public water supply system located in Doniphan County. The advisory was originally issued on March 13, 2026, due to a waterline break resulting in loss of pressure in the distribution system. Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of White Cloud indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and all conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed resolved by KDHE officials.

Hawaii DOH Reports Measles Virus Detected in Kaua'i County Wastewater

The Hawaii Department of Health reported that a wastewater sample collected on February 25, 2026, from East Kaua'i County tested positive for measles virus genotype D8 via advanced sequencing conducted by the State Laboratories Division. The result was received on March 16, 2026. A confirmed measles case involving a visitor was also reported on March 7, 2026, though the timing and location of that case do not align with the Kaua'i wastewater detection. Healthcare providers have been notified to remain alert for measles symptoms. As of March 12, 2026, 31 states are reporting measles cases. The DOH continues statewide surveillance including through the National Wastewater Surveillance System and WastewaterSCAN.

Governor Hochul Announces $20M State Grants for Abortion Health Care Services

Governor Hochul announced $20 million in state grants available to eligible providers through the New York State Supplemental Abortion Provider Support Fund, which funds medication abortion health care services. The State Department of Health has issued letters to 22 potential awardees notifying them of their eligibility. Funding may be used for recruitment, hiring, training, and retention of clinical and medical staff; expanding hours and access; care management and navigation services; uncompensated health care services; and outreach, marketing, and administrative costs.

Texas Medical Board Suspends Houston Physician An Q. Van, M.D. for Child Pornography

On March 11, 2026, a disciplinary panel of the Texas Medical Board temporarily suspended without notice the medical license of An Q. Van, M.D. (Lic. No. Q4869), after finding that his continuation in the practice of medicine poses a continuing threat to public welfare. The suspension was triggered by Dr. Van's February 12, 2026 arrest in Houston for possession of child pornography. A temporary suspension hearing with 10 days' notice will be scheduled unless waived by Dr. Van, and the suspension remains in effect until the Board takes further action.

Alabama DPH Warns of Cannabinoid Product Poisoning Risks During Poison Prevention Week

The Alabama Department of Public Health issued a public health advisory during National Poison Prevention Week 2026 warning about risks from unregulated cannabinoid-containing products. In 2025, the Alabama Poison Information Center managed 469 cases involving exposure to cannabinoids, with 59 exposures reported and managed so far in 2026, including cases involving children less than 2 years old. The advisory specifically cautions about delta-8 THC and delta-10 THC products commonly sold at gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores that are not evaluated or approved by the FDA and may contain contaminants or higher-than-expected THC levels.

TDH Reinforces Importance of Naloxone With Rise in Cychlorphine Fatalities

The Tennessee Department of Health is issuing statewide public health information following more than 30 fatal overdoses since October 2025 associated with cychlorphine, a newly identified synthetic opioid reported to be 10 times more potent than fentanyl. TDH data indicates cychlorphine was associated with over 1,633 fatal overdoses in Tennessee in 2024. The notice advises on naloxone (Narcan) administration, notes that repeat dosing may be required, and directs the public to Regional Prevention Specialists and local health departments for naloxone access.

Sweet Potato Import Risk Management Document from Korea

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a risk management document detailing requirements for importing sweet potatoes from Korea. This document outlines the necessary measures to mitigate potential pest and disease risks associated with these imports.

Market expansion of sweet potato roots from Korea

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a notice regarding the expansion of market access for sweet potato roots originating from Korea. This action allows for the importation of sweet potatoes from Korea into the United States.

Pest Risk Assessment: Sweet Potato Roots from Korea

The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has published a pest risk assessment concerning the importation of sweet potato roots from Korea into the United States. This assessment evaluates potential risks associated with the commodity.