Medically Tailored Meals: A new study finds Medicaid “food as medicine” meal programs can improve health and cut costs, adding momentum to nutrition-focused care. Childcare & Disability Access: North Carolina’s childcare crisis is hitting disabled kids hardest, with families facing long waits, high costs, and untrained staff—pushing lawmakers to act. Parasite Outbreak Watch: Cyclosporiasis, linked to contaminated food and water, is surging nationally; Florida’s cases are nearly doubling, and health officials warn symptoms can last weeks. Food Safety: FDA and CDC investigations into frozen GreenWise Organic blueberries sold at Publix are tied to an E. coli O145 outbreak, prompting recalls across multiple states including North Carolina. Bed Bugs in NC: Orkin’s annual bed bug ranking puts Raleigh and Charlotte among the worst cities, underscoring ongoing pest-control concerns. Sleep Health Policy: The American Academy of Sleep Medicine backs the Sunshine for Our Kids Act to lock in permanent standard time, citing benefits for circadian health and student outcomes. NC Budget & Health Funding: North Carolina’s new $34.37B budget boosts education and health and human services, including Medicaid and public health funding. Cybersecurity for Health Data: North Carolina’s budget sets aside major cybersecurity dollars, including support for the NC Health Information Exchange Authority. Rural Hospital Milestone: State budget approval includes $25M toward restoring emergency services at the former Martin General Hospital, with advocates urging more federal help.