Latest News https://www.azmed.org/news/default.asp Tue, 16 Jun 2026 07:06:08 GMT Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:36:00 GMT Copyright © 2026 Arizona Medical Association An Update on Federal Antitrust Litigation Against MultiPlan, Major Insurers https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=729216 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=729216 Lawsuit Over Price-fixing in Healthcare Progresses During Discovery

The Arizona Medical Association is a plaintiff in the In re MultiPlan Health Insurance Provider Litigation, a federal antitrust case alleging that MultiPlan and major health insurers colluded to suppress out-of-network reimbursement rates paid to physicians and other providers. ArMA is seeking an immediate end to this anti-competitive conduct.

At the May 15 case management conference, the parties discussed with Judge Kennelly the ongoing exchange of evidence from the defendants, including disputes over access to the source code for MultiPlan's algorithms and cell phone records of communications between defendants. The court resolved several of those disputes, approved a 60-day extension to the case schedule, and allowed plaintiffs to update their complaints to add new defendants as the case continues to develop.

The case remains in active discovery, with the 36 bellwether plaintiffs continuing to have their cases worked up for trial. However, any member who wants to file a case still can do so.

Members of the Arizona Medical Association interested in joining the lawsuit as litigants are eligible for discounted contingency fees. If you believe you've been impacted by MultiPlan's practices, you are encouraged to reach out to an attorney. 

For more information, read our recent press release.

]]> Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:36:00 GMT ArMA Joins AG Mayes for Announcement of Lawsuit to End Healthcare Price-fixing Scheme in Arizona https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728567 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728567 Separate Federal & State-led Lawsuits Against MultiPlan Seek to End Healthcare Price-fixing

On Monday, Arizona Medical Association President Dr. Jason Jameson and ArMA member Dr. Andrew Carroll joined Attorney General Kris Mayes to support her announcement of a lawsuit aimed at ending healthcare price-fixing in Arizona.

The lawsuit alleges that MultiPlan — a major healthcare technology and network company — and several medical insurers colluded to build a system that routinely underpaid physicians and hospitals for the care they delivered to patients.

ArMA is party to similar federal litigation against MultiPlan and was present during AG Mayes' press conference on the state-led lawsuit to show our support.

arizona medical asssociation President Speaks at Press Conference Announcing Lawsuit Against Healthcare Price-fixing in Arizona

Insurance Companies Named in the Suit

AG Mayes' case alleges that the following major health insurers were a part of the price-fixing scheme, which relied in part on the sharing of confidential claims payment information with and through MultiPlan:

  • Aetna
  • Cigna
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Humana
  • Elevance
  • Molina
  • Centene
  • Health Care Service Corp.

How the Alleged Scheme Worked, According to the State

According to the complaint filed by the state, MultiPlan guided insurers' price setting for out-of-network care. The recommended prices were produced by MultiPlan's algorithm-driven system, which allegedly assigned low payments for each medical code, regardless of where the care was provided or who delivered it. Insurers using MultiPlan then allegedly paid similar amounts, meaning market competition effectively disappeared.

AG Mayes alleges that artificially low payments were then fed back into the algorithm, pushing future reimbursements even lower. All the while, physicians and hospitals were left with no meaningful way to negotiate, and patients were left with larger medical bills. The Attorney General estimates that, in total, the antitrust scheme cost Arizonans — including hospitals, physicians, and other healthcare professionals — billions of dollars.

The Impacts of Healthcare Price-fixing

As ArMA shared during the lawsuit's announcement, collusion between insurance corporations to systematically underpay physicians for the patient care they have already delivered is more than insulting — it is dangerous for healthcare in Arizona.

Arizona is facing a dire healthcare workforce shortage. Reports project that by 2038, we'll meet just 57% of our patient population's need for primary care, making our outlook the worst in the nation. This is a staggering gap, and insurers' price-fixing schemes — which are driving the physicians our communities trust out of practice — are making it worse.

Ultimately, antitrust schemes in commercial medical insurance mean higher health costs, lower access to quality care, and a weakened healthcare system.

What AG Mayes is Asking

The Attorney General alleges that the actions described above violate two key Arizona laws:

  • Arizona Uniform Antitrust Act
    • Violated through the alleged coordination of a shared algorithm and through exchanging competitively sensitive information to suppress payments
  • Arizona Consumer Fraud Act
    • Violated through the alleged misrepresented value of PPO coverage and the hidden fact that a third-party algorithm was determining payments

Based on these alleged violations, AG Mayes is asking the court to place a permanent injunction on the scheme, return money to those harmed, force MultiPlan and insurers to surrender their profits, and impose civil penalties for the violation of Arizona laws.

Federal Litigation Tackles Same Issue

The Arizona Medical Association, the American Medical Association, and hundreds of physician practices and facilities nationwide are a part of similar federal antitrust litigation against MultiPlan and major insurers. ArMA joined the lawsuit earlier this year.

The case alleges that MultiPlan (Claritev) and major insurers — including UnitedHealth, Elevance, Humana, Aetna, and Cigna — conspired to systematically underpay healthcare practitioners for reimbursements for out-of-network services in an anticompetitive scheme since at least 2015.

The lawsuit aims to end these alleged antitrust actions and recoup financial damages for physicians, other practitioners, and practices.

How Arizona Physicians Can Get Involved With Federal Litigation

Physicians who believe they have been harmed by MultiPlan and the insurance companies, whether in current or past years, can obtain a free case evaluation from one of the attorneys appointed by the court to lead the non-class claims.

Clinicians may not always know whether MultiPlan — or one of its services, such as Data iSight, Viant, NCN, ProPricer, or MARS — re-priced their claims. However, clues can often be found in Explanations of Benefits or remittance advice.

Members of the Arizona Medical Association interested in joining the lawsuit as litigants are eligible for discounted contingency fees. If you believe you've been impacted by MultiPlan's practices, you are encouraged to reach out to an attorney . 

ArMA's Commitment to Ending Antitrust Conspiracies in Healthcare

The Arizona Medical Association is in lockstep with the AG Mayes on combatting anti-trust conspiracies in healthcare. Our involvement in federal litigation has a similar goal to the state-led lawsuit: to ensure physicians are justly compensated for the services they deliver so that patients can access the care they deserve.

]]> Wed, 3 Jun 2026 16:36:00 GMT Arizona Launches AI-informed System to Detect Medicaid Fraud Before Payment https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728242 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728242 AHCCCS Prepayment Review Tool Set to Deploy This Summer

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced that the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System will launch an AI-informed Medicaid claims prepayment review system in July 2026 — believed to be the first such system in the country.

The tool uses artificial intelligence to rank claims by fraud, waste, and abuse (FWA) risk before payment is made, directing human reviewers to the highest-risk claims while minimizing delays for compliant providers. Notably, the announcement addresses a recent request from CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, who asked governors to revalidate high-risk Medicaid providers.

Background: Addressing Fraud Scheme in Arizona

The Governor's announcement is the latest development in Arizona's response to a Medicaid fraud scheme that has defrauded the state of at least $2.5 billion and disproportionately affected Native American communities struggling with addiction. To date, AHCCCS has suspended more than 350 providers over fraud allegations and secured more than 100 indictments.

How the Review System Will Work

According to the Governor's Office, the new system pairs AI-driven risk scoring with clinical oversight. Automated tools will identify fraudulent patterns and flag risk levels, with human reviewers making final determinations — a design intended to ensure billing errors are not incorrectly targeted for fraud.

A Part of Arizona's "Medicaid Integrity Program" Framework

The newly-announced AI-informed review program is a part of AHCCCS's ongoing effort to ensure Medicaid billing integrity, which has included several changes:

  • Provider Enrollment: Strengthened provider enrollment portal, expanded third-party screenings, background checks for high-risk providers, and more
  • Prepayment Review: Expanded prepayment review, including 100% review for providers with unusual billing patterns, prior FWA referrals, or high per-member costs
  • Data Analytics: AHCCCS is deploying the Alivia FWA Finder, part of the Alivia 360 product suite, applying machine learning to identify billing anomalies at scale

Looking Ahead

The initiative comes as Arizona continues to establish guardrails around the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare decision-making. In 2025, lawmakers approved ArMA-championed House Bill 2175, which prohibits health insurers from relying solely on artificial intelligence when denying claims or prior authorization requests that involve medical judgment. Beginning July 1, 2026, Arizona insurers must ensure that a medical director independently reviews such denials and exercises clinical judgment before an adverse determination is issued.

While AI tools are expected to play an increasing role in program integrity, claims analysis, and administrative workflows, Arizona policymakers have made clear that clinical decisions affecting patient access to care must remain subject to meaningful physician oversight.

As the new system is rolled out, the Arizona Medical Association will continue to monitor developments and keep the physician community informed.

Information in this article was sourced from the Governor's Office and the Hertel Report.]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 17:37:00 GMT Dignity Health to Build Major Outpatient Campus at New Cardinals Headquarters Site https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728237 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728237 Dignity Health Seeks to Expand Access to High-Quality Health Care in North Phoenix

Dignity Health is bringing a 300,000-square-foot medical campus to the site of the Arizona Cardinals' new headquarters and performance center in north Phoenix. Phase 1 construction is set to begin in 2027, with an opening targeted for 2028 — the same year the Cardinals expect to move into their new facility.

A First-of-Its-Kind Campus for Dignity Health

Dignity Health will be the first business to join the Cardinals at their new site near Scottsdale Road and the Loop 101 Pima Freeway. The multiphase project will span eight acres of the 217-acre property and feature two buildings. When complete, the campus will be Dignity Health's largest outpatient facility.

What Physicians and Patients Can Expect

The campus will house a sports medicine institute, services from Barrow Neurological Institute as well as specialized care in orthopedics, cardiology, primary care, executive health, imaging, and outpatient surgery. The project is expected to generate roughly 700 medical and support positions.

Community Access at the Core

Dignity Health Arizona President Anthony Houston emphasized that the campus is designed to serve the broader community — not only professional athletes. The project builds on Dignity Health's existing partnership with the Cardinals, which currently includes naming rights to the team's Tempe facility.

What This Means for Arizona's Healthcare Landscape

The north Phoenix campus adds a significant outpatient footprint to a high-growth corridor of the Valley. With 700 medical and support positions expected and a suite of specialty services planned, the project is one to keep an eye on.

Information in this article was sourced from Dignity Health and KTAR News.]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 17:18:00 GMT CMS Seeking Comments on Prior Authorization for Drugs & Interoperability Standards https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728234 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=728234 Summary of Proposed Provisions in the 2026 CMS Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs Proposed Rule (CMS-0062-P)

On April 10, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released a Proposed Rule on Interoperability Standards and Prior Authorization for Drugs. This proposed rule includes five standalone Requests for Information that are distinct from the policy proposals. CMS is accepting comments on or before June 15, 2026, at 11:59PM EDT.

Summary of PA & Step Edit Proposals

Proposals would apply to the following payer types:

  • Medicare Advantage (MA) organizations
  • State Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) fee-for-service (FFS) programs
  • Medicaid and CHIP managed care plans
  • Qualified Health Plan (QHP) issuers on the Federally-facilitated Exchanges (FFEs)
  • Small-group QHP issuers on the Federally-facilitated SHOP (FF-SHOP) (newly included)

According to CME, the proposals would enhance transparency of prior authorization requirements, allowing for faster and more informed care decisions.

Key Provisions

Electronic Prior Authorization for Drugs

Current policy: Requires impacted payers to support electronic prior authorization for non-drug items and services via the Prior Authorization API (the 2024 final rule).

Proposed change: Would require impacted payers to incorporate coverage and documentation requirements for drugs covered under a medical benefit into the Prior Authorization API. Would require impacted payers to support electronic prior authorization for drugs covered under a pharmacy benefit using certain National Council for Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) standards.

Prior Authorization Timeframes

Current policy: Requires MA organizations, state Medicaid and CHIP FFS programs, Medicaid managed care programs, and CHIP managed care entities to make prior authorization decisions on non-drug items and services within 7 calendar days for standard requests and 72 hours for expedited requests (the 2024 final rule). QHP issuers on the FFEs are not subject to the timeframes established in the 2024 final rule; rather they must provide patients with notice on prior authorization decisions regarding non-drug items and services within certain established timeframes in 45 CFR 147.136(b)(3)(i).

Proposed change: Would require that QHP issuers on the FFEs provide notice to the requesting physician or other clinician of prior authorization decisions on non-drug items and services as expeditiously as the enrollee's health condition requires, but no later than 7 calendar days after receiving a standard request and no later than 72 hours after receiving an expedited request. Would require that impacted payers make prior authorization decisions on all drugs within certain timeframes.

Require a Specific Reason for Denying a Prior Authorization Request for Drugs

Current policy: Requires impacted payers to include a specific reason for denying a prior authorization request for non-drug items and services (the 2024 final rule).

Proposed change: Would require impacted payers to include a specific reason to physicians and other clinicians for denying a prior authorization request for all drugs.

Publicly Report Prior Authorization Metrics

Current policy: Requires impacted payers to publicly report certain prior authorization metrics on non-drug items and services (the 2024 final rule).

Proposed change: Would require impacted payers to publicly report additional prior authorization metrics on non-drug items and services. Would require impacted payers to publicly report certain prior authorization metrics on all drugs (excluding covered Part D drugs for Medicare Advantage-Prescription Drugs [MA-PDs]).

Requests for Information (RFIs)

CMS will collect public responses to RFIs regarding this proposed rule to analyze and determine steps the agency can take to improve related issues in the healthcare industry.

CMS also seeks comments on ways to streamline the step therapy process through technology and data sharing (such as the Payer-to-Payer API) to allow payers access to historical patient information. CMS seeks comments on how technology may facilitate step therapy determinations and improve current step therapy processes. This includes the role of technology in evaluating and applying step therapy use criteria and how payers evaluate and honor step therapy use criteria from other payers.

What's Next?

Comments on the proposals must be submitted by June 15, 2026, at 11:59PM EDT. To submit comments or questions electronically, go to regulations.gov, enter the docket number "2026-07205" in the search field, and follow the instructions for submitting a comment.

]]> Fri, 29 May 2026 16:16:00 GMT Supreme Court Keeps Mifepristone Mail Access in Place, Preserving Telehealth Options for Physicians https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=727330 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=727330 On Thursday, the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily blocked a lower court ruling that would have restricted mail distribution of mifepristone, allowing current FDA rules for telehealth prescribing and pharmacy dispensing to remain in effect while litigation continues.

The case centers on a challenge to FDA policies that expanded remote access to the medication abortion drug during and after the pandemic. Had the lower court ruling taken effect, physicians nationwide could have faced renewed in-person dispensing requirements.

For Arizona physicians, the decision maintains continuity for telemedicine-based reproductive healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to in-person services may be limited. The ruling also carries broader implications for FDA authority over nationally approved medications and future pharmaceutical regulation.

The Supreme Court’s order is temporary, and the underlying case is expected to continue through the federal courts in the coming months.]]> Fri, 15 May 2026 03:57:00 GMT Phoenix City Council Approves Controversial Medical Restrictions in Parks https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=727224 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=727224 Following months of debate, the Phoenix City Council last week approved a controversial ordinance that will restrict certain medical services at public parks.

Ordinance Restricts Medical Services

The ordinance, which goes into effect on June 5, will now require that volunteer medical organizations — including Circle the City and Street Medicine Phoenix — operate under a tent or in a mobile medical vehicle and obtain a permit for conducting medical treatments in the park. The ordinance also limits the number of permits available to two per park every month.

In addition to imposing permit caps, the ordinance also prohibits the distribution of harm reduction kits, including the injection of naloxone. It does not prohibit the distribution or administration of Narcan nasal spray, and it does carve out exemptions for certain circumstances, including for medical emergencies.

Anyone found in violation of the ordinance will face a class one misdemeanor, which threatens a $2,000 fine or up to six months in jail. They could also be temporarily banned from applying for future permits to conduct medical services in parks.
 
Healthcare Community Highlights Serious Negative Impacts of the Ordinance

The Arizona Medical Association, local physicians, and other healthcare advocates expressed fierce opposition to the ordinance during its public comment period. Together, we highlighted how the ordinance's permit cap functionally prohibits evidence-based street medicine, which patients experiencing homelessness often rely on for routine and preventative care.

By limiting licensed medical professionals' ability to treat vulnerable populations where they are, the ordinance will lead to the escalation of preventable conditions, forcing patients into the city's already overwhelmed emergency rooms. This concern is especially relevant as Phoenix faces another season of extreme and deadly heat.

The physician community supports efforts to make city parks cleaner and safer for families, especially regarding sharps disposal, which is in line with the goals of street medicine. However, the ordinance will decrease the presence of licensed medical professionals, who are trained to thoroughly and safely discard used sharps, in public parks.

Physicians Urge Officials to Reconsider Langauge

ArMA and the physician community are disappointed in the City Council's decision to approve the ordinance as written without further discussion among stakeholder groups. We urge city officials to revisit the language before its implementation.

By working with physicians,  community medical groups, and other stakeholders, the city can craft an ordinance that will keep public spaces safe and protect the patients who depend on care delivered within them.

To learn more or apply for a permit, visit the City of Phoenix's website here.

Information in this article was sourced from Arizona Family.]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 18:18:00 GMT These Arizona Hospitals Are at Risk of Closing, According to New Report https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=726428 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=726428 According to a report from a consumer advocacy organization, eight Arizona hospitals are at risk of closing or reducing services due to recent federal policy changes.

The national report, published by Public Citizen, used hospitals' two-year net profit history and payer mix percentage to determine which are most at-risk of adverse impacts from H.R.1, the federal spending package passed by Congress last year.

A total of eight local hospitals were included on the list, including six Phoenix metro locations:

  • Carondelet St. Mary's Hospital in Tucson
  • Banner Goldfield Medical Center in Apache Junction
  • Mountain Vista Medical Center (HonorHealth Four Peaks Medical Center) in Mesa
  • Arizona General Hospital in Mesa
  • Tempe St. Luke's Hospital (HonorHealth Tempe Medical Center) in Tempe
  • Valleywise Health Medical Center in Phoenix
  • Abrazo Central Campus in Phoenix
  • Exceptional Community Hospital in Bullhead City

When asked about the report by KJZZ, Valleywise Health Medical Center and Tempe St. Luke's Hospital issued separate statements with similar messages: that they are closely monitoring the financial impacts of the federal policy changes and planning accordingly.

Read more from KJZZ.

]]> Fri, 1 May 2026 05:08:00 GMT ASU Health Breaks Ground on New Medical School Campus in Phoenix https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725575 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725575 Arizona's Newest Medical School Takes Shape in Downtown Phoenix

Medical education is quickly evolving to improve Arizona's healthcare system, better meet patients' needs, and prepare students for today's challenges.

ASU Health's recent ground-breaking is proof of this expansion. Earlier this month, Arizona State University's hub for health and medical education broke ground on its new headquarters in the Phoenix BioScience Core. The 175,000-square-foot facility is scheduled to open in time for the fall 2028 semester, when it will welcome approximately 36 medical students.

The Arizona Medical Association was present for the ceremony, joining university leaders, elected officials, and innovators who are invested in furthering local medical education.

A Medical School Built Around Engineering and Technology

At the center of the new campus is the John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical Engineering, a program designed to graduate physicians with both a medical degree and a master's in medical engineering — in four years. The curriculum integrates engineering, technology, the humanities, and tools such as artificial intelligence and data science. HonorHealth will serve as the school's primary clinical affiliate. The facility itself will include virtual reality classrooms, health care simulation and skills labs, and a medical-technology innovation suite.

Addressing Arizona's Workforce Gap Head-On

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs noted at the groundbreaking that the state will need 76,000 new health care workers by 2030. ASU Health hopes to help close that gap, with a stated goal of tripling the number of nurses educated by ASU and attracting more physicians to Arizona through upskilling opportunities. ASU President Michael Crow framed the program's success in outcome-driven terms: not by degrees conferred, but by whether the state's overall health improves and whether health care access costs decline.

GME Must Keep Pace With Medical Education

As medical education in Arizona expands, the Arizona Medical Association's advocacy for graduate medical education funding grows with it. Medical schools across are state are educating the next era of compassionate, forward-looking physicians. But, without the graduate medical education funding our state needs to meet workforce demands, these talented trainees have very limited opportunities to live and work in Arizona.

That's why ArMA advocates for increased GME funding at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. Just last year, we successfully secured $4 million in federally-matched funding to expand local residency programs and train the next generation of Arizona physicians.

While this investment is meaningful, it is far from enough. We are committed to ensuring that every Arizona medical student has the opportunity to become an Arizona physician.

A Strong ArMA Presence & United Community

ArMA was proud to participate in the ceremony, represented by President Dr. Jason Jameson, CEO Doug Laher, and Vice-President of Government Relations Amanda Sheinson. ArMA's own Dr. Priya Radhakrishnan, a HonorHealth executive team member and one of the physicians helping bring ASU Health's vision to life, also played a large role in the event.

ArMA applauds the program's forward-looking approach — equipping future physicians to blend engineering, technology, and the humanities in service of comprehensive, compassionate patient care. As the landscape of healthcare continues to evolve at break-neck speeds, this kind of out-of-the-box innovation will be critical for preserving quality patient care.

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:19:00 GMT MultiPlan Anti-Trust Lawsuit Enters Active Discovery https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725555 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725555 The Arizona Medical Association is a plaintiff in the In re MultiPlan Health Insurance Provider Litigation, a federal antitrust case alleging that MultiPlan and major health insurers colluded to suppress out-of-network reimbursement rates paid to physicians and other providers.

The case is now in active discovery. At the February 27 case management conference, the Court cleared the way for depositions of MultiPlan representatives and required the company to produce key internal records. The next status conference was on April 9, and an update from that meeting is forthcoming.

On a related note, co-lead counsel Matt Lavin has joined Gilbert LLC and will continue leading the case in his new role. This change does not affect the case, our organization's participation in any way, or your case if you have joined the litigation.

Members of the Arizona Medical Association interested in joining the lawsuit as litigants are eligible for discounted contingency fees. If you believe you've been impacted by MultiPlan's practices, you are encouraged to reach out to an attorney. 

For more information, read our recent press release.

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:27:00 GMT Sixth Measles Case Identified in Maricopa County, Arizona https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725553 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725553
🚨 URGENT HEALTH ALERT: Sixth Measles Case of 2026 Confirmed in Maricopa County
MARICOPA COUNTY HEALTH ALERT NOTICE

Public Health Measles Surveillance Alert for Clinicians

📅 Updated: April 16, 2026

⚠️ Measles in Arizona — Suspect, Isolate, and Report

The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has confirmed a measles case in a Maricopa County resident, making this the sixth measles case of 2026 in Maricopa County.

This new case is not linked to any previous measles cases in the county and has no known source of exposure. This highlights the ongoing risk of local transmission and the importance of vaccination and early symptom recognition.

MCDPH will provide public notification via the media and update its online list of public exposure sites when additional public exposures are identified. Public notifications are issued when exposed individuals cannot be identified, so people who may have been in a public setting at the same time as an infectious person can learn of their potential exposure and take protective steps.

Clinicians will find clinical considerations below.

📍 Public Exposure Sites

People who were at the following locations at the listed dates and times may have been exposed and should watch for symptoms. The measles virus can survive in the air for up to two hours; the listed exposure times include that extended period.

Location Date Time Watch for Symptoms Through
New
Arizona Youth Sports Basketball Game — Gymnasium
6915 E. Guadalupe Rd., Mesa, AZ 85212 		Saturday, April 11, 2026 2 p.m.–5 p.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026
Costco
20260 S. Ellsworth Rd., Queen Creek, AZ 85142 		Friday, April 3, 2026 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturday, April 25, 2026
Walmart
21055 E. Rittenhouse Rd., Queen Creek, AZ 85142 		Saturday, April 4, 2026 8:15 a.m.–10:45 a.m. Sunday, April 26, 2026
Generation Church Queen Creek
22801 Via Del Jardin, Queen Creek, AZ 85142
Jr. High Sunday School & Easter Egg Hunt 		Sunday, April 5, 2026 8:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Monday, April 27, 2026

People who were at these locations during the listed dates and times should:

  1. Check your vaccination status. Review your immunization records to confirm you are protected against measles. People who have not had measles or received the MMR vaccine may not be protected and should talk with a clinician about vaccination.
  2. Watch for symptoms, which typically appear seven to 12 days after exposure but may take up to 21 days. Symptoms include: high fever (>101 °F), red and watery eyes, cough, runny nose, and a red, raised, blotchy rash that begins after other symptoms — usually on the face at the hairline — and moves down the body.
  3. If symptoms develop, stay at home and call a clinician or medical facility before arriving so staff can arrange evaluation without exposing others.

💉 Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP)

In some situations, certain people exposed to measles may be eligible for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to reduce their risk of becoming ill. This includes some children under 12 months, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Individuals should contact their clinician for guidance.

🩺 Recommendations for Physicians

  1. Consider measles in the differential of unvaccinated individuals who present with fever and a rash. Adults who received only 1 MMR vaccine as a child are considered fully vaccinated but may have waning immunity, and measles should not be excluded.
  2. Minimize exposures of patients and staff by utilizing the infection control guidance below.
  3. Make sure that all patients and clinical staff are adequately vaccinated.
  4. Immediately report suspect cases of measles to the Maricopa County Department of Public Health by calling (602) 506-3747

🌍 Ongoing Measles Spread

MCDPH has declared a local measles outbreak in Maricopa County. While the overall risk to the community remains low, residents should remain vigilant given the ongoing spread of measles across Arizona, including in Coconino, Maricopa, and Pinal counties, and beyond.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we see, but it is also highly preventable. The MMR vaccine is a proven way to protect yourself, your family, and our community.

🔬 Measles Laboratory Testing

For suspect measles cases, call (602) 506-3747 to coordinate with MCDPH for confirmatory testing through Arizona State Public Health Laboratory (ASPHL).

Specimen Collection

Collect the following two specimens for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing through ASPHL:

  • Urine collection
  • Nasopharyngeal swab

⏰ Optimal Testing Window

Detection of measles RNA is most successful when specimens are collected on the first day of rash through the 3 days following onset of rash. Detection of measles RNA by rRT–PCR may be successful as late as 10–14 days after rash onset.

🩹 Clinical Presentation of Measles

Measles typically presents in adults and children as an acute viral illness characterized by a prodrome with high fever (>101 °F), cough, coryza, and conjunctivitis followed several days later by a generalized maculopapular rash.

Rash Characteristics

  • Usually starts on the face (starting at the hairline)
  • Proceeds down the body and may include the palms and soles
  • Appears discrete but may become confluent
  • Lasts several days
  • Fades in the same order that it appears
  • Koplik spots are occasionally seen

Symptom Timeline

Signs and symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms may be mild, absent, or atypical in persons who had some degree of immunity to measles virus before infection (e.g., in previously vaccinated persons who had waning immunity or children aged > 1 year who passively acquired maternal antibodies).

⚠️ Special Populations

Those who received vaccination between 1963–1967 and immunocompromised individuals may present with an atypical rash (atypical rash typically begins on the extremities).

Potential Complications

  • Diarrhea
  • Otitis media
  • Pneumonia
  • Hepatitis
  • Encephalitis
  • Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) — a serious brain infection that may not appear until years after the initial measles infection
  • Death

🦠 Transmission

Measles is highly contagious. Approximately 90% of persons lacking immunity who are exposed to measles virus will develop the disease.

How Measles Spreads

  • Transmitted by airborne particles or direct contact with respiratory secretions of an infected person
  • Can live for up to 2 hours in an airspace where an infected person has coughed or sneezed
  • Individuals with measles are infectious from 4 days before rash onset through 4 days after rash onset (9 days total)
  • A person with measles can spread the virus to others before symptoms begin

🏥 Infection Control at Health Care Facilities

The following steps are recommended to prevent measles transmission in health care facilities:

Facility Preparation

  • Post signage outside your facility and have surgical masks available.
  • Do not allow suspect measles patients to remain in the waiting area or other common areas

Patient Isolation

  • Immediately isolate them in an airborne isolation, negative pressure room — if available — otherwise, utilize a private room with a closed door
  • If a potential measles patient is evaluated in a room that is not a negative pressure room, do not use that room for the next 2 hours
  • Immediately place a surgical mask on the patient

Arrival Procedures

  • When possible, ask the suspect measles patient or their guardian to call the facility when they arrive outside, so staff can meet them before they enter the facility
  • When possible, have the suspect measles patient use an alternative entrance into the facility, like a back door, that will minimize exposure to other patients

💉 Vaccination & Immunity

✅ Vaccination is the Most Effective Protection

Two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine are 97% effective and recommended for all children. Unimmunized adults are recommended to receive at least one dose of MMR vaccine. Individuals born before 1957 or who had measles as a child are generally considered immune.

👶 Updated Guidance: Infants 6–11 Months

In alignment with CDC guidance and in the setting of a local measles outbreak in Maricopa County, MCDPH recommends infants aged 6–11 months receive early MMR vaccination in addition to the two scheduled doses at ages 1 year and 4–6 years.

Evidence of Immunity for Healthcare Professionals

Ensure your healthcare staff is fully immunized. Review immunity to measles for all healthcare workers, including ancillary staff such as office staff, dietary staff, housekeeping, maintenance, etc. — anyone that shares airspace in your facility with a patient.

Documentation Requirements

  • Health care workers should have documented evidence of immunity to measles
  • Healthcare workers should receive two doses of MMR, at least 28 days apart, regardless of year of birth, unless they have documentation of previous immunity

🔍 What to Watch For

Symptoms of Measles

Anyone who develops symptoms consistent with measles should self-isolate, avoid contact with others, and seek medical care. Symptoms typically appear about 7–14 days after exposure and can include:

  • High fever (104 °F to 105.8 °F)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Diarrhea
  • Red, watery eyes
  • Full-body rash that usually starts a few days after the fever

⚠️ High-Risk Populations

Measles can cause serious illness and death, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with depressed immune systems. If you develop symptoms, call your physician or medical facility before arriving so staff can provide instructions to reduce the risk of exposing others.

Important Facts About Measles

  • Unvaccinated people have a 90% chance of becoming infected if exposed
  • Vitamin A does not prevent measles
  • In rare cases where a vaccinated person gets infected, their illness will be less severe than if unvaccinated
  • There is no treatment for measles — only supportive care
  • There is no treatment to relieve symptoms or shorten the duration of infection
  • Infected individuals can spread measles to others before symptoms develop, while they still feel normal
  • Long-term complications can include subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), a brain infection that may not appear until years after initial infection

For Questions or to Report Suspect Cases:

Maricopa County Department of Public Health

(602) 506-3747

MCDPH CARES Team (vaccination resources) — Mon.–Fri., 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

(602) 506-6767
]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 17:05:00 GMT Mental Health Parity Index Reveals Gaps in Arizona & Nationwide https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725519 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=725519 New AMA Data Reveals Mental Health Parity Gaps in Arizona Insurance Coverage | ArMA

New national data from the Mental Health Parity Index, a project spearheaded by the American Medical Association and several other organizations, shows that mental health care continues to lag behind physical health services in insurance coverage despite longstanding federal parity laws.

State Arizona
Number of licensed PH clinicians 44,358
Number of licensed MH/SUD clinicians 16,164
Percent PH clinicians in-network 59.5
Percent MH/SUD clinicians in-network 51.8
Percent difference 13.7
Arizona in-network rates for physical health (PH) and mental health/substance use disorder (MH/SUD) clinicians. Source: AMA Mental Health Parity Index.
Arizona county-level mental health parity ratings
Arizona county-level mental health parity ratings. Source: AMA Mental Health Parity Index.
Arizona — Physical Health vs. MH/SUD In-Network Rates by Insurer
806040200
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aetna
BlueCross BlueShield
Cigna
UnitedHealthcare
Physical Health % In-Network MH/SUD % In-Network
In-network rates for physical health vs. mental health/substance use disorder clinicians by major Arizona insurer. Source: AMA Mental Health Parity Index.

Persistent Gaps in Mental Health Network Access and Reimbursement

The findings reveal persistent gaps in access to in-network care, with many patients struggling to find covered mental health clinicians. Reimbursement disparities are also significant. Mental health clinicians are paid 16% to 59% less on average than their counterparts in physical health, a disparity that can directly influence whether physicians participate in insurance networks.

What Arizona Physicians Are Seeing

For Arizona physicians, these trends mirror everyday realities. Limited networks and lower payment rates contribute to longer wait times, increased out-of-network care, and added strain on primary care physicians managing behavioral health needs. 

Federal Parity Law Enforcement Falls Short

The report points to ongoing shortcomings in enforcement of the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act, which requires insurers to cover mental health services similarly to medical and surgical care. With gaps identified in network adequacy, payment inequities, and barriers to access, the report underscores the need for stronger oversight and insurer accountability.

A Call to Action for Arizona's Medical Community

For Arizona's medical community, the message is direct: closing that gap will require not only policy enforcement, but sustained physician engagement at every level of the health care system.

Data source: AMA Mental Health Parity Index, American Medical Association.

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 02:00:00 GMT Arizona Joins Multistate Lawsuit Challenging Federal Rollback of Mercury and Air Toxics Standards https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=724816 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=724816 Multi-state Lawsuit Seeks Reinstatement of Stricter Air Pollution Limits

Arizona is among more than 20 states and local governments asking a federal court to reinstate stricter limits on toxic air pollution from power plants.

The multi-state lawsuit focuses on changes to the federal Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS), which regulate emissions of pollutants such as mercury, arsenic, and lead. A coalition of more than 20 states and local governments argues that the rollback reverses updated protections adopted in 2024 and could allow higher levels of harmful emissions.

State officials involved in the Arizona lawsuit contend the federal action does not adequately justify the change or account for advances in pollution-control technology. They are asking a federal court to reinstate the stricter Mercury and Air Toxics Standards.

Federal officials, however, have said the rollback is intended to reduce regulatory costs and support reliable, affordable energy production.

The legal challenge reflects a broader national debate over how to balance environmental protections, public health concerns, and energy costs, with the outcome now likely to be decided in the courts.

]]> Fri, 3 Apr 2026 18:23:00 GMT New CMS Rule: Payers Must Report Prior Authorization Data Publicly https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=724810 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=724810 Initial Round of Required Data Holds Little Insight, According to KFF News

A new federal mandate requires government-managed plans to post prior authorization metrics publicly for the first time. The first reports were due on March 31, and an initial review reveals just how much work remains for insurance reform and accountability.

While the federally-mandated reporting excludes commercial insurance plans, Arizona is ahead of the curve. The physician community is championing legislation that would require commercial payers to report medical claim and prior authorization denials data to the state. Read more about this important local advocacy initiative. 

CMS's New Rule Addresses Prior Auth Transparency

For years, physicians and patients have navigated insurers' prior authorization processes with little transparency into the hows and the whys. This reality has bred frustration, life-threatening delays, and a weakened healthcare system.

However, under a new rule finalized by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in 2024, payers are now required to publicly post key prior authorization metrics — including denial rates, processing times, and appeal overturn rates.

The first reports, covering calendar year 2025, were due March 31. Unfortunately, an early analysis from KFF Health News suggests that the data has significant gaps and limited usability for physicians, patients, and hospitals.

What the Rule Requires

According to its website, the CMS Interoperability and Prior Authorization Rule "focuses on efforts to improve prior authorization processes through policies and technology, to help ensure that patients remain at the center of their own care."

The rule applies to Medicare Advantage plans, state Medicaid and CHIP fee-for-service programs, Medicaid managed care plans, CHIP managed care entities, and carriers on the federally facilitated ACA exchanges. Commercial medical insurance plans are not included.

Payers must annually post aggregated metrics on their public websites, covering approval rates, denial rates, decision turnaround times, and appeals outcomes for medical items and services. Medicare Advantage plans report at the contract level; Medicaid and CHIP programs at the state level; managed care and exchange plans at the plan or carrier level. Notably, prescription drugs are excluded from the reporting.

The rule also introduces new decision timelines. Beginning in 2026, Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and CHIP plans must process standard prior auth requests within seven calendar days and urgent requests within 72 hours — down from a previous standard of up to 14 days. When denying a request, payers must provide a specific reason and communicate it to the clinician. ACA exchange plans are not subject to these requirements.

Additional API requirements will take effect in 2027, when payers must implement a prior authorization API capable of receiving and responding to requests electronically, expand patient access APIs to include prior authorization data, and launch provider access and payer-to-payer APIs to improve data exchange across the system.

The Problem With the Data

Despite the mandate, a KFF analysis found that early reports offer limited insight into what actually gets approved or denied. The data is difficult to locate and varies widely in format and presentation across payer websites. Some insurers aggregate reporting within a line of business; others require users to navigate multiple pages.

More significantly, the data is aggregated across all items and services, with no breakdown by service type. There is no way to assess which procedures or specialties face the highest denial rates — or why. Payers are not required to disclose reasons for denials, making it impossible to evaluate whether their decisions align with their own coverage policies.

Prior Auth: A Burden on Physicians & Patients

Administrative strain on physician practices is well-documented. According to a survey conducted by the American Medical Association, prior authorization paperwork consumed an estimated 13 hours per week in the average practice in 2024.

KFF data found that Medicare Advantage insurers rejected or partially denied more than 4 million prior authorization requests in 2024. Of those that were appealed, over 80% were reversed — a reversal rate that calls into question the denials into serious question.

On the commercial side, dozens of insurers made voluntary pledges in 2025 to improve the prior authorization process for fully insured health plans. Despite this public pledge, Arizona physicians have not yet seen meaningful changes take effect. Patients are still experiencing delays, and the administrative burden on our clinics remains unsustainable.

Arizona Physicians Are Taking Action

CMS's latest rules address government payers, but Arizona physicians face the same cumbersome prior authorization burdens from commercial insurers — without the same accountability requirements. The Arizona Medical Association is working to change that.

Senate Bill 1628, championed by ArMA and other healthcare stakeholders, would require commercial insurers to report data on medical claims and prior authorization denials to the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions. DIFI would then publish an annual, publicly available report and share it with key legislative leadership — giving advocates the concrete data needed to drive future insurer reforms. The bill is advancing through the State Legislature with strong support.

ArMA and the Arizona Hospital & Healthcare Association have joined forces behind the measure, presenting a united front in the push to level the playing field between physicians and insurers, and most importantly, to improve health care for Arizona patients.

Information in this article was sourced from Becker's Hospital Review, KFF News, CMS, and the American Medical Association.]]> Fri, 3 Apr 2026 16:59:00 GMT KFF Survey: ACA Enrollees Struggle With Rising Premiums After Federal Subsidy Expiration https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722789 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722789 Survey: ACA Enrollees Face Growing Financial Pressure as Enhanced Subsidies Expire

A recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll of Affordable Care Act enrollees found that rising premiums — driven by the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies — are forcing difficult financial tradeoffs, delaying care, and pushing some enrollees to reduce or drop coverage in 2026.

Survey's Key Findings

  • About 80% of returning enrollees report higher premiums or out-of-pocket expenses; roughly half say costs have increased significantly
  • 55% plan to cut spending on other household expenses to cover health care costs
  • 17% say they may be unable to continue paying their premiums through the end of the year

While most enrollees have maintained coverage, some have switched plans, sought alternative insurance, or dropped coverage altogether due to affordability concerns

Broader Implications

The survey highlights widespread anxiety about paying for medical care and suggests that rising health care costs could shape both financial decisions and political attitudes as the year progresses.

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:35:00 GMT Arizona Pain Specialist Says CMS's WISeR Model is Disrupting Patient Care https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722775 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722775 Arizona Physician Describes Challenges Following WISeR Model's Implementation 

In an exclusive article published by The Washington Post this week, physicians and patients weighed in on the immediate shortcomings of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services newly-launched Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction (WISeR) Model, which adds prior authorization requirements for select Medicare services.

The model utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning alongside human clinical review to “reduce clinically unsupported care.”

Prior Authorization Creates Disruptions

Healthcare is suffering because of prior authorization’s shortcomings. It routinely interferes with the physician-patient relationship and delays the delivery of care, even in life-threatening situations. It creates unrealistic administrative workloads for our clinics. And, it's adding to the dire healthcare workforce shortages our state and country face.

The WISeR Model is only making matters worse. Despite the physician community's concerns about the AI-driven model, its rushed implementation, and its lack of stakeholder input, CMS launched the program on January 1.

ArMA Physician Shares WISeR-driven Challenges

ArMA member Matthew Crooks, MD — director of Pinnacle Pain at OrthoArizona and president of the Arizona Society of Interventional Pain Physicians — spoke with The Washington Post about how the model is already disrupting patient care for pain specialists.

Richard Hynds, one of Dr. Crooks' patients, suffers from severe lower back pain, for which he receives steroid epidural injections. These injections allow him to exercise, developing core strength to mitigate the pain long-term, he told The Washington Post. However, once the WISeR Model began, Hynds was repeatedly denied prior authorization for the injection. He had to wait more than a month before he was approved, suffering through severe pain throughout.

Dr. Crooks described the WISeR Model as significantly different from other prior authorization processes: “we’re seeing far, far more denials with Medicare WISeR than we’ve seen in the past with commercial insurances and Medicare Advantage.”

He also described long wait times, with medical staff sitting on hold for up to 90 minutes at a time just to schedule a peer-to-peer review. "Once scheduled, those conversations often occur about a week or more later, leaving patients waiting," The Washington Post reported.

Medical Organizations in Arizona, Other Pilot States Oppose the Program's Implementation

The Arizona Medical Association and other medical organizations nationwide have taken a prominent role in opposing the program's implementation.

In a letter to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, ArMA President Dr. Jason Jameson, along with medical association leaders from the other affected states, requested a halt to the program and asked the agency to collaborate with "stakeholders to design payment processes that protect the Medicare Trust Fund while achieving value, without jeopardizing patient access."

The associations argued the initiative shifts critical clinical decisions away from physicians and patients without adequate transparency, stakeholder input, or evidence demonstrating improved patient outcomes.

Arizona's Prohibition of AI-driven Medical Claims 

Last year, the Arizona Medical Association successfully advocated for state legislation to prohibit AI-driven medical claim denials. The legislation prohibits health insurance companies from relying solely on AI to deny medical claims, requiring medical directors to individually review denials and exercise independent medical judgment. The law was signed on May 12, and takes effect June 30, 2026.

The law sets a national precedent for regulating AI's use in commercial medical insurance, putting Arizona ahead in the race to ensure regulation keeps up with development and implementation. While the new legislation will put a stopper in an issue physicians have identified as pervasive, it does not apply to Medicare or Medicaid coverage.

Sources: The Washington Post]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:54:00 GMT Abrazo Health Launches 'The Nest' Maternal Care Program at Two Arizona Campuses https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722768 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=722768 Tenet-owned Abrazo West and Abrazo Arrowhead Unite Women's Services

Abrazo Health recently introduced "The Nest," a re-branded space and concept for women's and maternal health services spanning its Abrazo West and Abrazo Arrowhead campuses. The initiative brings together obstetric, neonatal, and postpartum care into one cohesive program designed to support women, infants, and families from pregnancy through recovery.

A Family-Centered Environment

The Nest is designed to function as a comforting, home-like setting during what leaders describe as one of life's most powerful and vulnerable experiences. Both campuses offer spacious private labor and delivery suites, advanced wireless fetal monitoring, dedicated 24/7 OB hospitalist and neonatal coverage, lactation education and consultation, and sleep accommodations for family members. 

Neonatal Care at the Core

For families navigating premature births or medically complex deliveries, neonatal services remain a central pillar of The Nest. Advanced NICU capabilities are paired with care environments designed to ease family stress and encourage bonding.

Recent Capital Investments

The Nest's unveiling follows significant upgrades at both campuses:

  • A $14 million NICU expansion at Abrazo Arrowhead, completed in 2023
  • A $415,000 labor and delivery renovation at Abrazo West, completed in 2024

Arizona Group CEO Brian Elisco said the program reflects a belief that clinical excellence must be accompanied by compassion and emotional support.

Sources: Abrazo Health, The Hertel Report

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:41:00 GMT Arizona Families Rally Over AHCCCS Changes Disrupting Therapy Access for Children With Autism https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721732 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721732 Contract terminations between AHCCCS plans and two major autism therapy services have left many families struggling to find care.

Families of children with autism and advocates rallied at the Arizona State Capitol this week, saying changes within the state’s Medicaid system have left many children without access to a critical therapy, applied behavioral analysis.

The Origin of the Dispute

The dispute centers on contract terminations between AHCCCS plans and two large autism therapy services, which forced many families to find new providers often with long waitlists or limited availability. Some parents say the changes could leave hundreds of children without consistent therapy.

Several families have filed lawsuits arguing that the state failed to ensure adequate access to care after insurers ended contracts with certain therapy providers. They claim the AHCCCS system did not provide enough alternatives for children who depend on ABA therapy.

What Advocates Are Asking For

Parents who gathered at the Capitol urged state officials to intervene and restore therapy options, warning that interruptions in care could cause children to lose progress they have made through early intervention programs.

What AHCCCS is Saying

Officials with AHCCCS have said that ABA therapy remains a covered benefit and that other healthcare professionals are available within insurer networks. But families say long waitlists, travel distances, and limited openings have made it difficult to secure new therapy placements for their children.

Where the Discussion is Headed

The dispute continues to unfold in court as families seek an order that would maintain access to therapy while the legal challenges move forward.

]]> Fri, 6 Mar 2026 17:59:00 GMT Arizona Joins Multistate Lawsuit Challenging Federal Childhood Vaccine Recommendation Changes https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721729 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721729 Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes co-leads a legal effort to block CDC vaccine guideline rollbacks that shapes U.S. immunization policy.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes announced last week that she is co-leading a lawsuit that aims to restore the federal childhood vaccine recommendations after they were overhauled by the federal government earlier this year.

Alongside more than a dozen other state attorney generals, Mayes is requesting the judge block the new childhood vaccine recommendations and reverse recent federal panel changes.

What Changed — and Why It's Being Challenged

In January, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reduced the total number of vaccines recommended for all children by nearly half. Vaccines no longer included in the CDC's recommendations include those for preventing the flu, rotavirus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, certain forms of meningitis, and RSV.

The lawsuit, filed jointly with California Attorney General General Rob Bonta, accuses the defendants of violating federal law and disregarding scientific evidence and expert consensus in its decision to significantly change the immunization schedule.

The suit also challenges Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s decision to fire 17 members of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

The Public Health Stakes

In her statement, Mayes highlighted that routine childhood vaccines prevented approximately 508 million illnesses, 32 million hospitalizations, and more than 1.1 million deaths among children born between 1994 and 2023.

"We want to ensure that families continue to be fully aware that vaccines continue to be safe and effective for their children, and we encourage them to vaccinate their children against diseases that are entirely preventable," Mayes said.

 The Federal Government's Position

HHS publicly stated that the schedule changes were the result of a request from President Donald Trump, who asked the agency to review how peer nations approach vaccine recommendations. Officials framed the changes as a way to increase the public's trust.

Mayes disputed that framing on the basis that comparisons to other countries fail to account for key differences, including universal health care coverage.

The Physician Community's Response

The American Academy for Family Physicians, alongside several other national-level medical associations, have publicly adopted their own childhood immunization schedules. According to AAFP's website, it does not endorse the CDC's schedule. Instead, it has posted its own scheduling tables, which are available for download.

The Arizona Medical Association and other local medical groups publicly reaffirmed the importance of vaccination to the health of patients and our communities last year.

"Vaccines are one of the greatest and most reliable forms of modern medicine,” said Dr. Sarah Coles, an ArMA Board of Directors member, AzAFP member, and family medicine physician in Flagstaff. “Without them, millions of patients would unnecessarily suffer from preventable diseases and related complications each year.”

The Arizona Medical Association, the Arizona Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Arizona Academy of Family Physicians urge all parents to consult with their child’s physician about vaccinations. Protecting one child’s health helps protect our entire community.

Information in this article was sourced from Arizona's Family.

]]> Fri, 6 Mar 2026 17:33:00 GMT New ADHS Tool Gives Arizona Physicians Instant Access to Local Public Health Data https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721725 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721725 Community Profiles centralizes more than 280 health indicators — from care access to environmental conditions — in one interactive platform.

Arizona physicians now have a powerful new resource for understanding the communities they serve. The Arizona Department of Health Services has launched Community Profiles, an interactive data tool that consolidates local public health information into a single, searchable platform.

What Community Profiles Offers

The tool aggregates more than 281 indicators per community, covering demographics, health outcomes, healthcare access, workforce availability, facilities, and environmental conditions. Select datasets are updated in near real time. For physicians, that means faster access to the kind of community-level context that informs clinical decisions, grant applications, and advocacy efforts — without combing through multiple agencies or reports.

Key features include built-in guided tours, printable views, metadata, and data download options, making it accessible whether you're a first-time user or a seasoned analyst.

Practical Uses for Physicians

Community Profiles can help clinicians and practice administrators quickly identify nearby primary care, dental, and mental health providers, locate hospitals and long-term care facilities in a given area, and find community resources such as cooling centers during Arizona's extreme heat months.

The tool also enables side-by-side comparisons between communities, counties, and statewide data — useful for identifying care gaps and targeting areas where intervention may have the greatest impact.

How to Access It

Community Profiles is available now through the ADHS Public Health Data Portal. A recorded walkthrough from the ADHS GIS team is also available for those who want a guided introduction before diving in.

]]> Fri, 6 Mar 2026 17:25:00 GMT Physicians Defeat No Surprises Act Arbitration Bill https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721523 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=721523 Bill to Introduce New NSA Arbitration Caps Stopped by Physician, Healthcare Advocates

Late last month, the Arizona House Appropriations Committee heard House Bill 2211, which would have given health insurers an advantage in No Surprises Act arbitration by introducing two new caps on what a physician or other healthcare practitioner may offer:

  • 300% of the approved Medicare reimbursement rate, or
  • 300% of the qualifying payment amount

A violation of the statute would have been considered unprofessional conduct and could have threatened a physician's license. 

Thanks to a swift and coordinated response from the healthcare community, the bill was stopped in its tracks and is not expected to re-appear during this year's legislative session.

Background on NSA Arbitration & Latest Trends

The proponent of the bill claimed that the Independent Dispute Resolution (IDR) process has turned into a "jackpot" for clinicians, however, this is not the reality. For example, the American Hospital Association cites federal data showing that Anthem does not participate in 30% of disputes, and the increase in clinicians prevailing in IDR from 2023-2024 (80-85%) was largely attributable to default decisions, especially in Q4 of 2024.

Tying "provider offers" to the Qualifying Payment Amount (which is determined by insurers) or the Medicare rate would give physicians and other clinicians a deeply unfair disadvantage in negotiations.

To make matters more frustrating, physicians are not being paid in a timely fashion when they prevail in disputes. A recent survey from the Emergency Department Practice Management Association (EDPMA) found that nearly 60% of IDR decisions in favor of emergency physicians had not been paid under the statutory requirements. A broader survey of clinicians across 45 states found that 22% of IDR awards owed in 2023 and 11% of awards owed in 2024 had not been paid at all.

ArMA, Others Coordinate Swift Response

The health care community, including the Arizona Medical Association and the Arizona Hospital Association, was united in opposition. The bill did not receive a vote in committee, meaning it was successfully stopped from moving forward in the legislative process this year.

ArMA's Advocacy Team continues to monitor this and other issues most pressing to Arizona physicians and their patients. To learn more about our efforts, visit our webpage. 

]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 23:01:00 GMT 340B Drug Pricing Program's Latest: What Arizona Physicians Need to Know https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=720622 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=720622 HHS Starts Over on 340 Rebate Model, Stakeholders Push Back

Updated March 4, 2026 @ 3:30PM

A coalition of national healthcare organizations recently urged federal regulators to extend the public comment deadline on a reimagined 340B Drug Pricing Program rebate model — a separate initiative from the original pilot that was struck down by federal courts late last year and subsequently scrapped by U.S. Department of Health & Human Services last month.

On February 25, the Health Resources & Services Administration said it will extend the deadline for public comments to April 20, giving key stakeholder an additional month to share insight. The agency also suggested that it may expand the rebate model pilot program to all drugs included in the Inflation Reduction Act’s Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program through 2027, according to the American Hospital Association.

The Arizona Medical Association is closely monitoring the rulemaking process and actively advocating against proposed rebate models that pose a significant threat to the stability of local hospitals and the patients they serve.

The Bottom Line

The original 340B rebate model pilot, introduced in 2025, was scrapped by the agency after facing a court-ordered injunction and fierce opposition from stakeholders. HHS is now starting fresh with a new rebate model proposal, which is currently posted for public comment through April 20. All healthcare stakeholders potentially impacted by the program are welcome and encouraged to share their insight.

The healthcare community, largely led by the American Hospital Association, has voice concerns about the new concept and advocated for an adjusted comment period timeline.

What's Happened So Far: A Quick Timeline

July 2025 — Health Resources & Services Administration announces original 340B rebate model pilot, replacing up-front drug discounts with post-purchase rebates. More than 1,000 hospitals and stakeholders submit opposition.

Dec. 29, 2025 — A U.S. District Court judge in Maine grants a preliminary injunction, blocking the original pilot from taking effect Jan. 1.

Jan. 7, 2026 — The 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denies the government's motion to stay the injunction.

Feb. 5, 2026 — HHS agrees to vacate the original pilot entirely, citing an unfavorable administrative record.

Feb. 13, 2026 — HHS issues a request for information on a new, separate 340B rebate model pilot — starting the process over from scratch.

Feb. 19, 2026 — The AHA and six national healthcare organizations urge HRSA to extend the comment deadline on the new RFI.

Feb. 25, 2026 — HRSA announces extension for public comment period, now closing on April 20, 2026.

The New Proposal: What to Know

HHS is not abandoning the rebate model concept. On Feb. 13, the agency issued a request for information signaling its intent to potentially develop a new and separate rebate model pilot program built through a formal rulemaking process.

Key details of the new Request for Information:

  • HRSA is soliciting stakeholder input on whether a new rebate model pilot should be implemented and how it might be designed
  • The current public comment deadline is April 20
  • If a new program moves forward, HHS has committed to issuing formal public notice and setting an effective date no earlier than 90 days following approval of drug manufacturer applications

Why Stakeholders Are Pushing Back

On Feb. 19, the AHA and six national healthcare organizations urged HRSA to extend the comment deadline from March 19 to April 20, arguing the current timeline is insufficient to respond to dozens of detailed questions about a program that does not yet exist.

"A rebate mechanism would upend more than 30 years of practice using an upfront discount mechanism," the groups wrote in a public statement. "Without an extension, we have serious concerns whether the agency will be able to consider all aspects of the problem."

AHA Vice President of Advocacy & Grassroots Aimee Kuhlman said the AHA welcomes HRSA's effort to gather input but cautioned that "imposing hundreds of millions of dollars in costs on hospitals serving rural and underserved communities is not a sound policy."

Coalition signatories alongside the AHA include:

  • America's Essential Hospitals
  • American Society of Health-System Pharmacists
  • Association of American Medical Colleges
  • Catholic Health Association of the United States
  • Children's Hospital Association
  • 340B Health

340B Program Background

Section 340B of the Public Health Service Act requires pharmaceutical manufacturers participating in Medicaid to sell outpatient drugs at discounted prices to health care organizations serving large numbers of uninsured and low-income patients. Hospitals use 340B savings to offer free vaccines, fund mental health clinics, and implement medication management and community health programs.

Annual drug spending through the 340B program grew from $6.6 billion in 2010 to $43.9 billion in 2021, according to a nonpartisan analysis. Drugmakers argue the program has grown beyond its original congressional intent. Safety-net hospital advocates counter that the growth reflects the depth of healthcare need in underserved communities — and that a rebate model would divert critical resources away from patient care.

Many 340B-eligible facilities operate on minimal profit margins and serve as the sole healthcare access point in their communities. The financial disruption of a rebate model would be particularly acute for rural hospitals and Federally Qualified Health Centers.

How the Original Pilot Was Blocked and Scrapped

In July 2025, HRSA announced a pilot program that would have replaced the 340B program's traditional up-front drug discounts with a post-purchase rebate model. Under that original proposal, participating hospitals would submit dispensing reports to drug manufacturers within a 45-day window, and manufacturers would issue rebate payments within 10 days of receiving those reports — with logistics largely left to individual pharmaceutical companies.

The proposal drew fierce opposition from more than 1,000 340B hospitals and other stakeholders. The AHA, 340B Health, and others called the shift a major "sea change" that lacked adequate stakeholder input or logistical support.

A U.S. District Court judge in Maine granted a preliminary injunction on Dec. 29, blocking the original pilot from taking effect on Jan. 1. The AHA, the Maine Hospital Association, and four safety-net health systems had filed suit, arguing HHS failed to follow required administrative procedures before implementing such a significant departure from established program practice. On Jan. 7, the 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals denied the government's motion to stay that injunction.

Faced with two adverse rulings, HHS filed a joint motion on Feb. 5 agreeing to vacate the original pilot entirely, acknowledging it did not believe further litigation would be "fruitful" based on the full administrative record.

Sources: HFMA, American Hospital Association, HHS, Fierce Healthcare, Healthcare Dive, Modern Healthcare, STAT]]> Wed, 4 Mar 2026 19:15:00 GMT Northern Arizona Healthcare Pauses New Hospital Plans Amid Financial Uncertainty https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=720635 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=720635 Flagstaff Medical Center's Future Campus Remains Undecided as Medicaid Cuts Loom

Northern Arizona Healthcare recently announced it will not select a site for a new Flagstaff Medical Center campus after years of planning for expansion. The system cited mounting financial pressures — including projected Medicaid funding cuts to the tune of $50 million annually — as the most critical driver of its board's decision.

The decision affects one of northern Arizona's most pressing healthcare infrastructure needs and has implications for physicians, patients, and communities across the region.

The Bottom Line

NAH's board affirmed the need for a new regional hospital — but says it cannot commit to selecting a site or finalizing an expansion timeline due to significant financial headwinds. The three sites not owned by NAH are no longer under consideration. The two NAH-owned sites remain under review with no decision announced.

What Happened

NAH's board of directors announced it is ending due diligence on three non-NAH-owned candidate sites for a new Flagstaff Medical Center campus. The identities of those sites and their owners will not be disclosed due to nondisclosure agreements, according to NAH.

NAH owns two additional sites that had been under consideration — including the current FMC campus and the site adjacent to Fort Tuthill County Park where previous plans were rejected by voters in a 2023 referendum. NAH has not announced whether either of those sites remains actively under consideration.

Board members and NAH leadership will continue discussions throughout 2026 and beyond. According to NAH, "at such time that a substantive decision is made, NAH will share that information."  

The Need Hasn't Gone Away

NAH leaders have been seeking a new FMC campus since 2021, and the capacity challenges driving that effort remain unresolved. According to NAH, Flagstaff Medical Center is at capacity every day for adult inpatients, creating emergency department bottlenecks and reducing regional access to care.

The need for additional patient beds, private rooms, updated technology, increased ED capacity, and resolution of operational inefficiencies are all ongoing. Building a new regional referral facility and achieving financial stability are both listed among the four imperatives in NAH's 2030 strategic plan.

ER Renovation Provides Interim Relief

While long-term planning is on hold, NAH has completed phase one of an emergency department renovation at FMC — a project described as a stopgap measure while new hospital plans are developed.

Phase one improvements include six new low-acuity treatment bays, an updated nurses' station, new sub-wait and continuing care waiting areas, a dedicated supply room, upgraded flooring and paint, LED lighting upgrades, and a new tube station connecting the ED to the lab and pharmacy.

A refresh phase is currently underway, and phase two began in February 2026, focused on creating a designated, safe space for patients experiencing behavioral health crises who need evaluation.

NAH also began operating a mobile MRI unit at FMC last summer to expand imaging capacity until a permanent second MRI unit can be added — something the health system has said would be difficult to accomplish within the existing facility.

More information on NAH's expansion plans is available at nahealth.com/about-us/expansion.

Sources: Arizona Daily Sun, Northern Arizona Healthcare

]]> Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:27:00 GMT Healthcare Entrepreneur Enters Race for Arizona Governor https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=719806 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=719806 New Independent Candidate Competes in Gubernatorial Race

Hoping to "disrupt" Arizona's political landscape is healthcare entrepreneur Hugh Lytle, the latest candidate to announce a bid for Arizona governor.

In an interview with The Arizona Republic, Lytle cited frustration with the two party political system as a large motivator for the start of his political career. He entered the race as an Independent and has already received the full backing of his party. 

Lytle Faces a Crowded Race

The newcomer will compete for Arizonans' vote against a crowd of candidates, including Karrin Taylor Robinson (R), Congressman Andy Biggs (R), Congressmen David Schweikert (R), and, seeking a second term, Governor Katie Hobbs (D).

A Serial Healthcare Entrepreneur

While not native to Arizona, Lytle has been a resident of the state since the mid-1980s, when he attended Arizona State University. Since his college days, Lytle has founded three Arizona-based healthcare companies:

  • Axia Health Management: A preventative care and wellness company
  • Univita Health: A home healthcare solutions company
  • Equality Health: A care coordination company with a focus on the social determinants of health and cost savings

Notably, his father founded national insurance giant Anthem, now called Elevance Health.

Lytle's Platform Tackles Education, Affordability & More

Lytle's platform centers on affordability and workforce recruitment. Education initiatives include launching a low-cost university program powered by artificial intelligence technology, with tuition set at $99 per semester to address student debt concerns.

Tax policy proposals would extend deductions to make youth sports more accessible to families and increase state-level incentives for charitable giving. Economic development priorities include fostering entrepreneurship and mentorship opportunities while strengthening the Arizona Commerce Authority's capacity to attract professionals — particularly educators and public safety personnel — through partnerships with private sector funding.

Information in this article was sourced from The Arizona Republic.]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 18:08:00 GMT Nine Arizona Hospitals Receive Federal Funding for New Residency Positions https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=719804 https://www.azmed.org/news/news.asp?id=719804 Nine Arizona hospitals and health systems — including several in rural areas of the state — will add approximately 30 new Medicare-funded residency positions across multiple specialties following recent federal funding awards announced by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

National Program Overview

CMS distributed 400 new residency slots to more than 130 teaching hospitals nationwide through two federal programs designed to expand physician training capacity. The funding prioritizes hospitals in rural areas, health professional shortage areas, states with new medical schools, and institutions training residents beyond their current Medicare-supported caps. 

Arizona Residency Funding Awards

Institutions across Arizona, including several rural areas, received slots in primary care, surgical, behavioral health, and other specialties:

Hospital/Health System City Specialty Approximate Slots Added Section
Banner University Medical Center – South Tucson Emergency medicine ~2 126
Banner University Medical Center – Tucson Tucson Interventional radiology ~4 126
Banner University Medical Center Phoenix Family medicine ~3 126
Banner University Medical Center Phoenix Phoenix Psychiatry ~7 4122
HonorHealth John C. Lincoln Medical Center Phoenix Surgery ~3 126
HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center Scottsdale Rheumatology ~1 4122
Valleywise Health Phoenix Anesthesiology ~2 126
Yuma Regional Medical Center Yuma Psychiatry ~4 126
Yuma Regional Medical Center Yuma Psychiatry ~4 4122

Total Arizona Slots: Approximately 30 new residency positions

Note: Yuma Regional Medical Center received funding under both Section 126 and Section 4122 for psychiatry residency slots.

Two Funding Streams

The awards came through separate appropriations legislation:

  • Section 126 (Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021): A five-year initiative distributing 1,000 new residency slots nationwide, with awards phased in over multiple years as programs expand.
  • Section 4122 (Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023): Provides 200 additional slots beginning in fiscal year 2026, with at least half designated for psychiatry and psychiatry subspecialty training.

Both programs increase hospitals' Medicare-supported residency training caps, allowing institutions to receive federal graduate medical education funding for additional resident physicians.

National Workforce Concerns Drive Expansion

The federal expansion responds to projected physician workforce shortages. The Association of American Medical Colleges estimates a shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036. Federal policymakers view residency pipeline expansion as a key strategy for addressing anticipated workforce gaps, particularly in underserved communities and shortage specialties.

Arizona's Rural Workforce Challenges

While all of Arizona faces a dire physician shortage, the state's rural communities face even greater challenges, which is reflected in national data. According to reports, approximately 92% of rural counties designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas. Primary care physician supply in rural areas is projected to meet only 68% of demand by 2037, below the national average of 73%. Research indicates that the loss of a single rural family physician can increase annual health spending by more than $1,300 per patient.

Recent GME Funding Wins in Arizona

The Arizona Medical Association continues to work alongside state leaders and healthcare organizations to secure additional graduate medical education funding to address physician workforce shortages.

In 2025, ArMA successfully passed state legislation that secured $4 million in federally matched GME funding for Arizona. The association also contributed to the state's Rural Health Transformation Fund application, which outlined workforce development as a strategic priority. The proposal called for increased residency slots, education subsidies for clinicians committing to underserved communities, and retention incentives for current healthcare professionals. Arizona will receive $167 million from the RHTP in FY2026.

ArMA Continues to Fight for Residency Slots

ArMA continues to advocate for increased GME funding and residency expansion as critical strategies to strengthen Arizona's physician workforce. The association remains committed to working with state and federal policymakers to secure resources that address rural health challenges and expand training opportunities for the next generation of physicians serving Arizona communities.

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