Alison Lovell

The meeting included discussions and updates from various departments. The Director provided updates on the Arizona Advisory Council on Indian Health Care (AACIHC), focusing on Suicide Prevention Month and health awareness topics. The Executive Assistant discussed the Community Health Representative (CHR) Summit IX. The Business Operations Administrator covered technical assistance, health education series, and budget updates. The Senior Epidemiologist presented data analysis and public health priorities. The AHEC Director reported on the AIH-AHEC program's growth and activities. Legislative updates included marketplace trainings, rural health transformation program, and partnerships to address healthcare policies and laws.

The meeting included the election of a new Vice Chairperson and discussions regarding a partnership with AHCCCS for a tribal listening session on the Rural Health Transformation Program. The board reviewed and provided feedback on a white paper concerning the impacts of HR1 on tribal health facilities. Updates were given on the Marketplace Program Grant, focusing on educational events and health insurance navigation for tribal populations. The board also discussed finalizing the Advisory Handbook and enhancing resources for new members.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key areas. There was an announcement of the new Executive Assistant. First Things First requested a letter of support from the Advisory Council to address decreased funding due to changes in tobacco tax revenue. An update was provided on the Rural Health Transformation Project, including feedback from a tribal listening session. The council discussed and voted on the AACIHC's legislative and administrative priorities for 2025/2026. Updates were given on the Governor's Office Year-in-Review Report and the Marketplace Program/Grant. The AIH-AHEC Academic Pathways Program was presented, outlining support for students pursuing health careers.

The meeting included discussions on a health profile of the American Indian and Alaska Native population in Arizona, covering key findings related to mortality, health risk behaviors, and chronic diseases. Contingency planning due to the early termination of a grant was addressed, along with potential new grants and the election of a new vice chairperson. An update on epidemiological reports and data dissemination was presented, focusing on transparency and respecting tribal data sovereignty.

The meeting included updates on the Dental Therapy Implementation Project, Board of Dental Examiners Rulemaking, and the Executive Director's Report, which highlighted legislative priorities and workforce development grants. AHCCCS staff provided updates on State Plan Amendments and waiver requests, including the Housing Waiver Amendment and Targeted Investments (TI) 2.0 Proposal. The council discussed the Arizona budget, the 6th Area Health Education Center Initiative Tribal Consultation Report, and the CDC Community Health Workers for COVID Response and Resilient Communities grant.