AGP Executive Report

Medication Safety Watch: An 80-page Tennessee investigation report details a Nashville Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown pharmacy mix-up on Aug. 14 that sent multiple patients into cardiac arrest; at least two were left paralyzed and one was put on a ventilator after staff reportedly gave potassium instead of an anesthetic. Public Health: A lettuce-linked Cyclospora outbreak continues to surge, with reports tying cases to multiple states and prompting fresh FDA warnings as the count climbs past 11,000. Maternal Care Access: Kentucky approved regulations to open freestanding birthing centers, adding a third option beyond hospitals and home births for low-risk pregnancies—some Tennessee families already travel across state lines. Community & Wellness: First Horizon executive Amy Perry was named a 2026 Woman of Impact by the American Heart Association, highlighting local heart disease and stroke prevention efforts. Local Health & Safety: Greeneville Energy Authority selected Whitney Winter to its board, while Tennessee continues to see serious injury and fatal crash reports near Memphis and in West Tennessee.

Food Safety Update: The FDA says the lettuce-linked cyclospora outbreak has expanded to Georgia, Tennessee and Texas, bringing the total to 20 states and 11,458 illnesses, with two deaths reported in Michigan; authorities trace it to iceberg lettuce supplied by Taylor Farms de Mexico to Taco Bell restaurants. Cancer Care Investment: Cookeville Regional Medical Center’s board approved a $5 million linear accelerator for its cancer center, aiming to bring advanced radiation therapy closer to patients and reduce repeated trips to Nashville. Medication Safety Watch: Reports continue to swirl around a Nashville hospital pharmacy error that left multiple patients paralyzed after surgery, underscoring the need for stronger safeguards and accountability. Public Health & Prevention: The FDA approved updated COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026-2027 season, targeting the XFG strain, with eligibility rules varying by manufacturer and age. Workforce & Training: Roane State and TCAT Oneida/Huntsville opened a new Fentress County Higher Education Center in Jamestown, adding health science and other job-focused programs for local students. Community Health Support: Random Acts of Flowers in Knoxville is collecting bouquets left at a Dolly Parton statue in Sevierville to deliver recycled flowers to patients in healthcare facilities.

Food Safety Alert: The FDA and CDC say the cyclospora outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce has now hit 20 states, with Georgia, Tennessee and Texas among the newest; confirmed cases total 11,458 and officials say they’re still focused on central Mexico lettuce linked to Taylor Farms. Access to Care: A Chattanooga couple received a $15,000 IVF grant after facing male-factor infertility and steep out-of-pocket costs, highlighting how fertility funding can help but doesn’t guarantee pregnancy. Hospital & Community Health: Memphis is expanding mental-health crisis response through a new “Fourth Option” that routes eligible 911 calls to a specialized CARE Team with clinicians trained for de-escalation. Public Health & Prevention: A new CHEF school nutrition program is rolling out in Tennessee with a $500,000 USDA grant, teaching students cooking skills and local-food nutrition. Medical Ethics & Research: Dolly Parton’s sister says Dolly offered to let doctors try experimental cancer drugs if there was “no hope,” framing it as a way to help future patients. Medication Safety: Baxter recalled multiple injectables over potential fiberglass and metal contamination, warning of serious risks if used.

Hospital Safety & Patient Harm: Nashville hospital officials confirmed a pharmacy mix-up in joint surgeries left at least one patient paralyzed and injured others, with families alleging potassium was put in syringes instead of anesthetic—prompting renewed scrutiny of medication safety and oversight. Youth Mental Health Access: Memphis expanded 911 response to include a dedicated mental health option, aiming to route callers to 24/7 crisis counselors instead of traditional emergency pathways. Public Health & Prevention: BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee is hosting drive-through flu clinics in multiple cities, making it easier for residents to get vaccinated without leaving home. Workforce & Training: Tennessee HOSA elected Sarah Thomas as state president, with a focus on connecting rural chapters to resources and expanding community service for future health professionals. School Wellness & Food: Franklin Special School District rolled out kitchen technology to boost scratch cooking and fresh food options in cafeterias, targeting healthier meals for students. Research & Innovation: Vanderbilt and EPB launched a Chattanooga Institute for Quantum Innovation to support research and graduate education tied to areas including health and critical infrastructure.

Healthcare Workforce & Education: Sumner County Schools won a SCORE 2026 Future Forward Innovation Grant to expand healthcare career pathways with partners including HCA TriStar Hendersonville Medical Center and Ascension Saint Thomas, aiming to connect K-12 students to high-wage, high-demand roles like radiologic technology and therapy fields. Public Health & Safety Tech: Memphis expanded 911 to add a dedicated mental health option, routing callers to crisis protocols and 24/7 counselors to speed the right response for mental health emergencies. Hospital Safety & Patient Care: A KFF Health News report says many hospitals buy AI tools to catch controlled-substance theft, but alerts still require trained humans to review and act—highlighting a real-world gap between tech and staffing. Medication Error Watch: Multiple reports this week focus on a Nashville hospital pharmacy mix-up that left patients paralyzed or injured, renewing scrutiny on safeguards and accountability. Consumer Protection & Youth Well-Being: Tennessee is among states tied to Meta’s up-to-$18B settlement over alleged harm to teens on Facebook and Instagram, with required safety changes like time limits and nighttime restrictions. Local Community Health: Baxter recalled IV nutrition and blood-collection products after stainless steel and fiberglass particles were found, warning of serious complications.

Big Tech Child-Safety Settlement: Tennessee is set to receive about $751.9M from a landmark $17.1B Meta deal over claims Facebook/Instagram were designed to be addictive to teens, with required changes including daily time limits and overnight blocks plus funding aimed at children’s mental health. Cancer Care Staffing in Middle Tennessee: Cookeville Regional Medical Center says Dr. Corbin Johnson has joined its radiation oncology team at the Cancer Center, bringing Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center experience to local cancer treatment. Public Health & Community Safety: A Wolf Creek Dam emergency simulation in Kentucky and Tennessee focused on coordinated response readiness for major flood or security threats, involving federal and regional healthcare coalition partners. Local Wellness Activity: The Little T Square Dance Club in Lenoir City is restarting beginner classes in September, highlighting potential benefits for physical activity and mental sharpness. Health-Related Sports Note: Golf’s Scottie Scheffler says he’s 95% recovered from hand, foot and mouth disease ahead of the Tour Championship.

Cancer Care in the Spotlight: Country icon Dolly Parton died Tuesday at age 80 after a “brief battle with cancer,” with reps saying she passed at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville surrounded by loved ones; her team did not disclose the cancer type, but recent health updates pointed to kidney and autoimmune issues and “hard times” she said she didn’t fully address while caring for her late husband. Community Health & Support: In Dyersburg, the Dyer County Health Council hosted a Community Baby Shower during National Breastfeeding Month, connecting families with local health and early-childhood resources. Local Health Culture: The Grand Ole Opry became a hub for tributes to Parton, whose philanthropy included major support for children’s literacy and public health research. Work While Sick (Presenteeism): A new opinion piece revisits the risks of showing up sick—physically or mentally—when fear of falling behind or losing a job pushes people to ignore their health.

Hospital Costs & Maternal Care: A new analysis puts the average U.S. cost of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum at $20,416, with patients paying about $2,743 out of pocket after insurance; Louisiana is cited as one of the cheaper states for 2026, with vaginal delivery costs far lower than many others. Patient Safety & Medication Errors: Tennessee is still in the spotlight after reports of a Nashville hospital pharmacy mix-up that left multiple patients paralyzed, renewing calls for stronger safeguards and accountability. Child Health & Consumer Safety: Consumer Reports and federal officials warn that counterfeit “squishy” sensory toys can violate safety standards and may contain hazardous gel materials. Digital Safety for Kids: Reuters reports Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri is expected to testify in a major trial alleging Meta designed platforms to addict children and mishandled children’s data. Healthcare Access During Disruptions: Memphis-area MSCS says it will provide free lunches and snack packs to students at closed schools as the community recovers from severe storms. Workforce Watch: Tennessee’s unemployment rate fell to 3.4% in July, with healthcare and social assistance among the biggest job gain areas. Healthcare Competition: The FTC approved a consent order tied to Ascension’s AmSurg deal, requiring divestitures of outpatient surgery centers including in Nashville.

Hospital Safety Fallout: Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown in Nashville says a pharmacy mix-up during spinal anesthesia for joint replacement surgeries left four patients harmed, including at least one left paralyzed, and Tennessee investigators opened a criminal probe as questions grow about why safeguards weren’t in place sooner. Public Health & Food Safety: A multistate Salmonella outbreak tied to imported jalapeños has sickened hundreds across many states, including Tennessee, renewing attention on recall tracking and food handling. Local Health Access: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis named its next CEO, Dr. Charles “Charlie” W.M. Roberts, pointing to a “new era” with expanded AI and pediatric cancer models. School Safety: Tennessee officials are urging families to use the SafeTN app to anonymously report school threats and mental health concerns. Community Health Support: A $8,000 grant helps Stewart County’s CATS program boost low-cost spay/neuter and trap-neuter-release services for stray and feral cats. Tennessee Sports Medicine: Campbell Clinic expanded its sports medicine outreach network to 19 schools across Tennessee and North Mississippi. Workforce & Wellbeing: New research finds young Americans’ credit scores have improved since before COVID, with implications for financial stress and long-term stability.

Maternal Health Tool: Hospitals nationwide are adopting “I Gave Birth” postpartum wristbands to flag emergency risks after delivery, aiming to cut maternal deaths and complications—an approach spreading beyond ECU Health. School Safety in Tennessee: The SafeTN app is being promoted for the new school year, letting families and educators anonymously report threats, suspicious behavior, or mental health crises before they escalate. Tennessee Unemployment & Health Jobs: Tennessee’s unemployment rate fell to a two-year low of 3.4% in July, with healthcare and social assistance among the biggest job gain areas. Hospital Safety: A major national spotlight is on a Tennessee hospital pharmacy/medication mix-up that left patients paralyzed after routine surgeries, with state investigation underway. Community Health & Food Safety: Consumer Reports says people don’t need to avoid salad broadly amid a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce, but stresses careful produce handling. Local Public Safety: A Tennessee State Fair ride malfunction sent nine people to care (four to ER), and separate shootings in Memphis and Frayser left multiple victims injured, including critical cases.

Medication Safety in Focus: Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown in Nashville says it gave the wrong medicine to four joint replacement patients on Aug. 14—mixing up spinal anesthetic mepivacaine with potassium phosphate—prompting serious reactions, including reports of paralysis and heart failure. The hospital apologized and rolled out new safeguards: separate storage for high-alert meds, extra pharmacist review for spinal medication scans, and independent dual verification. Local Health Access: The Wilderness Trail Region Porsche Club launched “Horsepower for Hope” to help repair and fuel family cars used to transport children to Niswonger Children’s Hospital in Johnson City, with a Sept. 19 car show fundraiser benefiting Ballad Health Foundation travel assistance. Youth Wellness & School Tech: A new Tennessee law requires K-5 districts to set policies for student device use, as experts warn that long screen time can worsen posture, eye strain, and discomfort—while still encouraging healthy habits instead of eliminating screens. Community Mental Health Through Nature: Heroes on the Water’s Music City chapter is bringing Nashville veterans and first responders on kayak fishing trips as a low-cost mental health reset. Disaster Preparedness: After major storms, MLGW warned Memphis residents to plan for power outages lasting “several days,” with 85,000 households still without power Sunday.

Medication Safety in Tennessee: A Nashville hospital pharmacy mix-up is under scrutiny after reports that multiple patients were left paralyzed following routine surgery/epidural care, with families alleging serious drug errors and the state investigating. Public Health & Food Safety: The FDA upgraded a Publix frozen berry recall to its highest risk level after E. coli concerns, raising the stakes for shoppers and regulators. Community Health & Access: Tennessee’s VA in Memphis was named a national nutrition center of excellence, highlighting nutrition-focused care efforts. Mental Health & Care Gaps: A national debate continues after high-profile deaths tied to child stardom and postpartum mental health, with advocates pushing for stronger protections and better support systems. Environmental Health Watch (Memphis area): xAI faces sustained backlash over unpermitted gas turbines tied to air quality concerns near Memphis/Southaven neighborhoods. Local Health Workforce: A Nashville dental hygienist alleged unsafe clinic practices after finding dirty, expired instruments stored in a Home Depot bucket, calling attention to infection-control basics.

Hospital Safety Crisis: Tennessee investigators are probing a Nashville medication mix-up at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital Midtown after four patients undergoing routine joint replacement surgeries were allegedly given the wrong drug, with at least one patient left paralyzed; the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation says it’s actively investigating after information was passed from the Tennessee Healthcare Facilities Commission. Public Health & Community Support: Tennessee is urging families to use the SafeTN app, a confidential tool for reporting school safety threats early, as the school year gets underway. Local Storm Impacts: MLGW says thunderstorms knocked out power for more than 100,000 customers in Memphis and Shelby County, with a multi-day recovery expected and hospitals/water and sewer facilities prioritized first. Health & Wellness for Families: West Tennessee Healthcare hosted the Baby and Kids Fest in Jackson, connecting families with resources for raising healthy kids through hands-on activities and local providers. Caregiving & Prevention: A Hamilton County jail deaths report highlights concerns around in-custody medical emergencies and Narcan use, with the sheriff’s office describing different custody classifications and a “compassionate release procedure.”

Medication Safety: A Nashville hospital investigation is underway after a pharmacy mix-up during routine joint replacement surgeries left four patients with catastrophic complications, including paralysis, after potassium phosphate was allegedly given instead of the intended anesthetic. Mental Health & Student Support: Austin Peay State University received a Tennessee Higher Education Commission grant to expand mental health, well-being, and academic support for military-affiliated students. Public Health Risk: New research links living near dry cleaners with higher Parkinson’s risk, adding to the growing conversation about everyday environmental exposures. Community Health Access: Meharry Medical College opened an ABLE Clinic to expand dental care for adults with disabilities, aiming to reduce barriers to routine oral health. Maternal Care Watch: A report highlights severe maternal health deserts in rural Tennessee, underscoring gaps in access to care. Local Safety: Metro Nashville Police are investigating a teen’s fatal shooting near Pearl Cohn High School, with authorities asking for tips.

Medication Safety Crisis: Ascension Saint Thomas Midtown says a pharmacy mix-up sent four joint-replacement patients potassium phosphate instead of the intended anesthetic, leaving at least two paralyzed and prompting state scrutiny by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Food Safety Alerts: FDA upgraded Publix frozen berry recalls tied to E. coli to the highest risk level; TDEC also extended a mercury fish advisory for black bass on the Duck River, urging pregnant/nursing people and children to avoid. Public Health & Wellness: UT researchers are using blow flies as a field tool to help monitor disease pathogens in remote areas. Community Care Expansion: Chattanooga nonprofit Cempa Community Care broke ground on an $8.6M Third Street expansion to bring primary care, infectious disease care, dentistry, behavioral health, and pharmacy under one roof. School Safety: Tennessee’s SafeTN app is being promoted as a confidential way to report school threats or mental health crises early. Workforce & Aging: Tennessee’s unemployment rate fell to 3.4% (lowest in two years), with a reminder that SCSEP can help unemployed adults 55+ find paid, skills-building work.

Food Safety Watch: FDA upgraded Publix GreenWise frozen berry recall to Class I after E. coli O145 illnesses; 12 cases reported in two states, and products were sold in Tennessee among other states—Canada says there’s no sign the recalled berries reached it. Public Health & Access: Meharry Medical College opened the ABLE Clinic to expand dental care for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with accessible bays and training for future dentists. Local Care Workforce: Galen Medical Group hired three physicians across primary care and gastroenterology in the Tennessee Valley. Community Health Aging: ETSU will host a regional conference on healthy aging in East Tennessee. Environmental Health: TDEC issued a precautionary fish consumption advisory for mercury in largemouth bass from Standing Stone Lake in Overton County. Healthcare Leadership: NEA Baptist Memorial named Craig Earley as CEO/administrator for the Jonesboro hospital. Health-Adjacent Consumer News: Walmart expanded its 30-minutes-or-less delivery to more markets, including Nashville.