Healthcare

UAMS Northwest has launched its first nurse anesthetist training program. Backed by $3M in funding, the program will expand CRNA numbers to meet rising health care demand in Arkansas. Ozark at Large's Kyle Kellams reports.

Jessica Fugitt, director of the Psychology Clinic, talks about the need for more high-quality, affordable mental health care in Arkansas and across the country.

Janet Mann has been tapped by Gov. Sarah Sanders to lead the Arkansas Department of Human Services. Mann and host Roby Brock discuss her knowledge in healthcare topics and aspirations for her new role.

Two Arkansas groups held a town hall Saturday as part of the nationwide Families First: 50-State Day of Peaceful Action, focusing on the Trump administration’s proposed reconciliation bill, the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’

On this edition of the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal report, host Roby Brock speaks with Keesa Smith-Brantley, executive director for Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, about what effects a GOP-sponsored rescission package may have on healthcare in Arkansas.

Improving services for Arkansans on the autism spectrum was the topic of discussion in a legislative task force meeting yesterday. Task force members discussed the efficacy of existing programs and opportunities for expansion.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation released the 2025 Kids Count Data Book last week. The annual survey measures how students across the nation perform in four key areas. Lisa Lawson, president and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, spoke with Ozarks at Large's Daniel Caruth about the report.

Arkansas lawmakers are discussing potential changes to the way hospitals are reimbursed for providing birthing services. Members of the Joint Public Health Committee debated a rule change on Wednesday that would increase the state’s Medicaid reimbursement rate for obstetrics.

Arkansas’ maternal mortality rate is one of the highest in the country. Ingeborg Initiatives, based in Bentonville, wants to change that narrative.

Amid proposed cuts to Medicaid from Congress, a report released on Thursday from Georgetown University examines the significant role Medicaid plays in maternal healthcare for rural communities. Ozarks at Large’s Daniel Caruth has more.