AGP Executive Report

Home Care Funding: A BAYADA Home Health Care director in Rock Hill says South Carolina’s $14.9 million investment in personal care and private-duty nursing helps families stay safely at home, but staffing shortages still mean hundreds of missed care hours each month. Public Health Alert: Florence issued a boil-water advisory for the Spaulding Heights neighborhood after a water main break, urging residents to boil tap water vigorously for one minute. Hospital Expansion: MUSC topped out its new $175 million College of Medicine building in Charleston, a 186,000-square-foot project slated to open in late 2027. Food Assistance Rules: South Carolina delayed a USDA-approved SNAP “Healthy Food SC” restriction program until Nov. 1, after legal reviews of similar limits in other states. Youth Safety: Six kids were reportedly taken to hospitals after a lightning strike near Fairforest Middle School in Spartanburg; deputies said none were seriously hurt. Health & Safety in the News: A missing Manning man was found dead in a pond in Clarendon County, and SLED is investigating an officer-involved shooting in Greenville County. Community Health & Wellness: Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach announced seven African penguin chick births in 2026, a hopeful milestone for a critically endangered species.

E. coli Berry Recall: Walmart shoppers in 16 states, including South Carolina, are being told to check freezers after an expanded recall of Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend tied to a multistate E. coli outbreak; the FDA says it’s precautionary and no illnesses have been linked to this specific product lot. Measles Preparedness: Colleges are urging faculty and staff to confirm measles immunity before exposures happen, using documentation checks to reduce campus disruption from a single case. Child Safety—E-bikes: MUSC pediatric experts say e-bike injuries among kids are rising, driven largely by higher speeds, and recommend safer riding habits and protective gear. Heat & Health: South Carolina’s record-breaking summer is a warning sign for more extreme heat, with guidance focused on planning for heat index days and protecting vulnerable residents. Local Health & Safety: Columbia police announced arrests after a Five Points grocery parking lot shooting sent three people to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Public Health Policy: The Trump administration is proposing to strip tax-exempt status from private schools and colleges that offer race-based student support, drawing criticism from higher-education leaders.

Public Health & Safety: Colleges are urging faculty to quickly verify measles immunity to prevent a single case from disrupting campuses for weeks, as South Carolina’s earlier CDC modeling helped officials get a “real time” picture of the historic outbreak. Food Safety: Walmart frozen berries have been added to an expanding E. coli recall affecting 16 states, including South Carolina; officials say it’s precautionary with no illnesses linked to the specific product yet. Child Health & Justice: Georgetown County released autopsy findings for 5-year-old Saylor Hayes, found dead near Pawleys Island; preliminary results cited pulmonary edema consistent with drowning, while investigators and charges involving her parents continue. Heat & Community Health: Gamecock fans faced record-breaking heat at the USC home opener, with the stadium using hydration stations and fans as temperatures and heat index climbed near 110. Local Health Systems: USC is addressing a nursing shortage with a faculty pipeline program. Injury & Emergency Response: Firefighters rescued an injured racehorse after a semi-truck crash on I-95 near Walterboro, working through brutal heat to free the animal. Road Safety: A fatal motorcycle crash in Horry County is under investigation.

Nursing Shortage in Focus: South Carolina nursing schools say they can’t grow enrollment fast enough because they’re short on faculty, with USC’s new nursing faculty pipeline program placing doctoral students into full-time teaching roles to expand the workforce. Measles Response Update: A first-ever CDC modeling effort helped South Carolina get a “real time” picture of a historic measles outbreak, guiding staffing and response as case counts surged. Food Safety Recall: Clorox Puerto Rico recalled 6.3 million Mistolin bottles after contamination concerns tied to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with higher risk flagged for immunocompromised travelers using vacation rentals. Public Health & Skin Care: Experts warn that harsh showering habits can worsen atopic dermatitis by damaging the skin barrier, especially with daily scrubbing and shared towels/loofahs. Local Health-Related Incidents: A pregnant Sumter woman died after hair got caught in a go-kart sprocket, and a USC football star, Nyck Harbor, was shaken up after a helmet-to-helmet hit in the opener.

Maternal Health Tragedy: A 24-year-old Sumter woman, Baylee Olivia Johnson, and her unborn son died after her ponytail became trapped in a go-kart sprocket, according to the coroner. Pediatric Safety & Justice: Georgetown County magistrate denied bond for Saylor Hayes’ parents in connection with the 5-year-old’s death after she was found in the Waccamaw River following a disappearance. Mental Health & Accountability: A South Carolina pastor weighs in on the Clancy case, arguing compassion for a killer shouldn’t silence justice for victims and urging serious attention to postpartum psychiatric illness. Sports Injury Update: South Carolina WR Nyck Harbor left briefly after a helmet-to-helmet hit in the season opener, then returned to the field. Skin Health: Dermatology experts warn that harsh scrubbing and daily loofah/towel use can damage the skin barrier and worsen atopic dermatitis. Public Health Watch: CDC measles reporting continues to spark conflict, with Pennsylvania deaths reportedly omitted from the latest national update. Community Care: Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary plans “Animals, Art & Automobiles” to raise funds for veterinary care and adoption services.

Dermatology Warning: Doctors say the “scrubbing hard feels clean” habit can damage the skin barrier and worsen atopic dermatitis, especially when people use harsh cleansers or daily loofahs/towels. Public Health & Food Safety: The FDA and CDC are investigating an E. coli outbreak tied to frozen berries; Walmart shoppers in 16 states (including South Carolina) are urged to check freezers after recalls of Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend, with no illnesses linked to that specific product yet. Measles Watch: CDC reporting continues to spark conflict with Pennsylvania over how measles-related deaths are listed, while other states report new cases tied to local outbreaks. Local Health & Care: McLeod Health CEO earns national recognition, and a senior living partner event highlights malnutrition risk and nutrition support for older adults. Medical Product Recall: Two IV saline recalls within days cite contamination concerns (fiberglass or iron oxide particles) in sealed hospital bags distributed across multiple states, including South Carolina. Community Safety: Cooling centers are opening in the region ahead of a heat advisory, with guidance to prevent heat illness.

Food Safety: Walmart shoppers in South Carolina and 15 other states are being told to check freezers after FDA expanded an E. coli recall tied to a Chilean blueberry supplier. The recalled item is Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend (10 oz), UPC 7874211226, lot code 6040 01-6, best-by Feb. 9, 2028; no illnesses are linked to this specific product so far, but the broader outbreak has sickened 17 people with six hospitalizations. Hospital Safety: Baxter and B. Braun issued separate recalls of 0.9% saline and other IV solutions after particles were found in sealed bags—fiberglass in Baxter lots and iron oxide in B. Braun—affecting multiple states including South Carolina; no patient injuries reported. Infectious Disease: Measles remains a concern in the region, with Georgia reporting additional cases tied to a metro Atlanta daycare outbreak; officials urge MMR vaccination for children and close contacts. Local Health Access: CareSouth Carolina says Dr. Michael Chandler has moved to its Bishopville office to continue family medicine services for Lee County and nearby communities. Public Health & Privacy: A Thomson Reuters court-filing software breach exposed sensitive records, including Social Security numbers and medical/insurance information, across multiple U.S. jurisdictions including South Carolina.

Bed-Rail Recall Crackdown: Federal regulators escalated action against a bed rail seller after promised refunds from an April recall didn’t happen, warning the assistive rails can trap users and raise fall risk. Tax-Exempt Fight Over Race-Based Aid: The Trump administration proposed a rule that could strip private schools and colleges of tax-exempt status if they offer targeted admissions or scholarships based on race, drawing sharp criticism from higher-ed leaders. Measles Watch: Illinois confirmed additional measles cases, with health officials again urging vaccination and booster guidance for people who may have received older vaccine types. Local Public Health & Safety: A Greenville County deputy was shot early Friday and is expected to recover; SLED is investigating. Pedestrian Safety Push: After another deadly hit on SC 544, Coastal Carolina and county leaders face renewed pressure for a planned pedestrian overpass. Health Coverage Complaint: A mother says UnitedHealthcare denied rehab coverage for her son’s brain injury after a motorcycle crash in Greenville. Food Safety Recall: Walmart’s Great Value organic frozen berry products were recalled in 16 states over possible E. coli contamination, including South Carolina.

Food Safety: The FDA expanded a recall of frozen organic berries tied to a multistate E. coli outbreak, now including Walmart’s Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend (10 oz) sold in 16 states, including South Carolina; check UPC 7874211226, lot 6040 01-6, “Best If Used By” Feb. 9, 2028, and don’t eat—discard or return for a refund. Healthcare Access: Southern Sky Recovery is launching “Rising Tides,” a 12-week adolescent intensive outpatient program (ages 13–17) in Bluffton with small groups and family involvement, meeting three evenings a week. Mental Health: Iberia Medical Center held a suicide prevention flag-raising and renewed local reminders that help is available and people shouldn’t suffer in silence. Local Health Services: Rutherford Regional added two general surgeons to expand access to surgical care in Rutherfordton, including colorectal-focused care and minimally invasive options. Public Health & Privacy: A Thomson Reuters cybersecurity incident involving court filing systems is reported to have exposed sensitive personal data across multiple jurisdictions, including South Carolina. Community Health: Chesterfield County’s jail escape using a pencil is renewing calls for major detention center upgrades.

Food Safety Update: The FDA says recalled iceberg lettuce tied to the Cyclospora outbreak is off the market, but doctors warn symptoms can show up 10–14 days later, so people with lingering stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea should still seek care. Medicaid & Access: Rheumatology groups are pushing back on looming Medicaid “community engagement” exemption rules, arguing frailty and autoimmune disease flare-ups can’t be judged as a fixed, repeatable work-capacity category. Local Health & Caregiving: A Spartanburg family says they tried to get help for a woman with depression before she was shot and killed by police, highlighting the gap between crisis needs and timely mental health response. Public Health & Prevention: South Carolina lawmakers are renewing an anti-bullying push inspired by an Upstate girl’s story after bullying and a suicide attempt, with the goal of stronger school accountability. Health Tech & Privacy: A Thomson Reuters court-systems breach reportedly exposed sensitive personal and medical-related information in multiple states, including South Carolina. Community Wellness: A local blood drive reported 18 units collected, underscoring ongoing demand for lifesaving donations.

Dental Access Boost: Delta Dental of South Carolina is partnering with MUSC to launch a PACT pilot that uses student-delivered care (with faculty oversight) to expand free and low-cost dentistry for uninsured and underinsured patients, aiming to help address the state’s major dental shortage. Medicaid Work Requirements: A new study warns that in Medicaid expansion states, up to 1 in 5 eligible adults could lose coverage in 2027 because many can’t reliably meet new minimum work-hour rules due to unstable schedules and real-world job barriers. Public Health—Measles Reminder: Health experts point to falling vaccination rates as the driver behind measles surges, stressing that outbreaks can be prevented with MMR shots. Caregiving & Legal Accountability: A Maryland woman says she learned her father died in South Carolina only after a Ring doorbell call, alleging a caregiver obtained his home via a $5 quitclaim deed—raising concerns about vulnerable adult protections. Local Safety & Health Risks: Gaffney’s water system issued a precautionary boil water notice after unauthorized fire hydrant openings caused a pressure drop. Health Workforce: Atrium Health Navicent named Elmer Polite president, adding leadership for hospitals across central Georgia.

Child Safety Case: The parents of 5-year-old nonverbal Saylor Hayes, found dead near a South Carolina beach after going missing, have been arrested in East Tennessee and charged with unlawfully placing a child at risk and willfully abandoning a child; investigators say her Project Lifesaver transmitter was found in a vehicle, not with her. Public Health & Prevention: South Carolina is rolling out a billboard push for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, aiming to connect people with trained crisis counselors 24/7. Nutrition Policy: South Carolina’s SNAP soda and candy limits are delayed until Nov. 1 after a court ruling, affecting about 230,439 SNAP households. Measles Watch: Health officials are tracking possible measles exposure in the Carolinas, including a reported exposure in North Carolina’s Buncombe and Henderson counties. EMS Recognition: Prisma Health Ambulance Service received a national EMS service of the year award from NAEMT. Food Safety: A major tofu recall is underway across 29 states after ink from packaging may have migrated into the product.

Food Safety Recall: Hodo, Inc. recalled more than 10,000 cases of Chili Crisp Lightly Fried Tofu in 29 states after ink from packaging film may have migrated into the food, raising concerns for shoppers and restaurants. Public Health: Wisconsin reported a sharp measles surge, with 110 confirmed cases as of Sept. 1, and most linked to unvaccinated people—an alert for families across the region. Care for Seniors: PACS said it will acquire 32 skilled nursing facilities in Florida, expanding its footprint that already includes South Carolina and other states. Child Safety Tech: A Project Lifesaver search near Pawleys Island ended in tragedy; officials said the transmitter wasn’t with the 5-year-old when she went missing, underscoring caregiver responsibility. Drug Policy: DEA moved mitragynine pseudoindoxyl and related 7-OH products to Schedule I, citing opioid-like addiction risk and overdose deaths. Cancer Plan in SC: South Carolina released its inaugural pediatric cancer plan, creating a dedicated section within the 2027-2031 state cancer strategy. Local Health & Safety: An Abbeville man was sentenced to 15 years for a deadly 2025 DUI crash and meth trafficking.

Childhood Cancer Support: VIP Marketing’s “Going Gold Together” campaign (Sept.) aims to raise $16,000 for families across the Carolinas facing childhood cancer, tied to the founder’s survivor son. Healthy Aging Tips: MUSC geriatrician Dr. Josh Mixson highlights practical lifestyle basics—regular exercise, protein-forward nutrition, sleep, and staying socially active. Primary Care Value: A new study review reinforces that long-term primary care relationships can cut urgent admissions and overall hospital costs. Food Safety Alerts: FDA recalls expand—Hood Chili Crisp Tofu over possible ink contamination and additional sprout recalls tied to E. coli/Salmonella risk. Measles Preparedness: Duq Health Services discusses measles readiness and the importance of MMR immunity checks. Local Health Access Growth: Atrium Health Fort Mill seeks to expand its development near I-77 to add more capacity for emergency and critical care. Public Health & Policy: South Dakota moves to ban soft drinks with SNAP after court setbacks, underscoring how federal waivers shape nutrition rules. SC Health Workforce/Finance: Frye Regional names Christine Markowitz as CFO, bringing long healthcare finance leadership experience. Research Collaboration: MUSC-linked Zucker Institute partners with Cartherics to explore CAR-NK cell therapy plus a novel anti-tissue factor antibody for cancer and endometriosis.

Air Quality & Health: Kentucky AG Russell Coleman and other Republican attorneys general ask the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a decision upholding tighter EPA soot pollution limits—arguing the rules exceed EPA authority while supporters say they prevent premature deaths. Public Health Alerts: North Carolina health officials warn of possible measles exposure at an Asheville hotel and a Hendersonville gas station; people who were there should watch for symptoms and call ahead. Cancer Research (MUSC): MUSC Hollings Cancer Center researchers report a “one-two punch” strategy for hard-to-treat triple-negative breast cancer by blocking a protein (LOX) to weaken tumors, then targeting a backup survival pathway. Local Health & Safety: South Carolina DPH confirms a rabid raccoon in Rock Hill exposed two people and one dog; residents are urged to avoid wild animals and report bites/scratches. Health Care Access & Policy: Proposed Medicaid payment changes in Texas could cut funding for children’s and rural care, with advocates warning of major access losses. Community & Safety Tragedies: Columbia mourns an officer killed in a domestic-violence call; a 15-year-old football player dies after a house fire; and a Florence County motel shooting leaves a 15-year-old dead.

Back-to-school health: Doctors are urging South Carolina parents to double-check kids’ vaccines as the school year starts, warning that misinformation and falling vaccination rates can leave children vulnerable to preventable illness. Public health watch: Health officials flagged a possible measles exposure for people who visited an Asheville, N.C. hotel during a specific morning window, advising symptom monitoring and quick contact with local health departments if concerns arise. Local disease update: West Nile virus activity is rising in parts of the Carolinas, with mosquito surveillance confirming positive samples and reminding residents—especially older adults and people with weakened immune systems—to prevent bites. Care and learning support: MUSC Children’s Health specialists discussed dyslexia in kids, emphasizing early detection and support for reading and spelling difficulties. Medical research: A new nanoparticle-based approach in Alzheimer’s animal studies reportedly helped reverse cognitive decline by encouraging brain cell regeneration. Health system funding signals: Medicaid billing data across South Carolina communities shows notable year-to-year shifts in categories like medical/surgical supplies and drug administration. Community health education: Francis Marion University added forestry and social work undergraduate programs, expanding training in fields tied to long-term community needs. Safety and health-adjacent news: South Carolina also saw multiple serious incidents, including officer-involved shootings and fatal crashes, underscoring the need for public safety and emergency response readiness.