AGP Executive Report

Remembering Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga: The Senate held a moment of silence and approved a tribute resolution honoring the longtime LBJ Hospital doctor’s 50+ years of service, including early-morning clinics for the elderly and COVID-19 leadership. Medicaid Access in Focus: Local advocates and an op-ed warn that a House-approved FY2027 Medicaid subsidy cut (from $6M to $3M) and weak local match are blocking enrollment of personal-care and home-health providers—hurting seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers. Local Health Outreach: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching “Medicaid Wellness” podcasts to push prevention for non-communicable diseases. CDC Lead Prevention: CDC highlighted American Samoa’s lead-poisoning prevention work, including a newly built program that tested 500+ young children and created the territory’s first lead surveillance baseline. Vector-Borne Disease Funding: American Samoa’s Department of Health received a CDC grant ($250,586) to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and surveillance for infectious diseases. Clock Change Reminder: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026—clocks fall back at 2 a.m., with potential sleep disruption noted by health experts.

Health Leadership Loss: American Samoa remembers Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga, “everybody’s doctor,” a Fiji-trained physician from Ofu whose long service included being available after hours and at home when people needed care. Medicaid Access & Long-Term Care: Advocates and local reporting highlight how Medicaid local match funding and a FY2027 Medicaid subsidy reduction could limit enrollment of personal care and home health providers—raising concerns for elderly residents, people with disabilities, and medically fragile patients. Infectious Disease Funding: The American Samoa Department of Health received a CDC award ($250,586) to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Lead Poisoning Prevention: CDC spotlighted American Samoa’s lead poisoning prevention work for young children, including building a lead surveillance baseline after launching the program without dedicated funding. Village Wellness Outreach: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and producing wellness podcasts focused on prevention for non-communicable diseases. Clock Change & Health: As daylight saving time “falls back” on Nov. 1, sleep and circadian disruption concerns are again in the spotlight.

Medicaid Access in Focus: Advocates are urging American Samoa leaders to protect the Medicaid local match after budget changes reduced the Medicaid subsidy, warning it could limit enrollment of personal care and home health providers for elderly residents, adults with disabilities, and medically fragile patients. Public Health Funding Boost: The CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and infectious disease surveillance through a five-year effort running to 2029. Lead Poisoning Prevention Spotlight: CDC highlighted American Samoa’s lead prevention work, including testing more than 500 children under age 6 and building the program without dedicated funding at the start. Village Outreach & Prevention: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching wellness podcasts to promote prevention for non-communicable diseases. Opioid Settlement Questions: Lawmakers raised transparency concerns about how opioid settlement funds are managed, noting payments over $860,000 this year may not be clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget. Cross-Border Preparedness: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a public health summit focused on preparedness, surveillance, and response coordination.

CDC Funding Boost: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a $250,586 CDC grant to the American Samoa Department of Health to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Lead-Safe Efforts: CDC spotlighted ASDOH’s lead poisoning prevention work, including testing 500+ young children in seven months to build the territory’s first lead surveillance baseline. Village Prevention Push: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching Medicaid Wellness podcasts to promote prevention for non-communicable diseases. Local Health Leadership: Governor Pulaali’i ordered flags lowered to honor Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga for his decades of medical service. Budget Watch: The Legislature approved the FY2027 budget and lawmakers flagged questions about how opioid settlement funds are being managed and reflected in spending plans. Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a “Two Samoas, One Public Health Vision” summit focused on preparedness, surveillance, and cross-border response.

CDC Funding Boost: American Samoa’s Department of Health received a $250,586 CDC grant to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Lead Prevention: CDC spotlighted local efforts to prevent childhood lead poisoning, including testing 500+ young children and building the territory’s first lead surveillance baseline. Village Preventive Care: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching “Medicaid Wellness” podcasts to push prevention for non-communicable diseases. Local Health Budget: The Legislature approved the FY2027 budget and sent it to the governor, with notable cuts including reduced hospital and Medicaid-related subsidies. Dengue Watch: Florida is seeing a concerning shift in dengue, with locally acquired cases spreading beyond South Florida—an alert for mosquito-borne disease readiness. Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a “Two Samoas, One Public Health Vision” summit focused on preparedness, surveillance, and cross-border response. Community Safety & Access: A court case in Pago Pago details an alleged assault with serious burns; separately, a federal suit in Las Vegas highlights disability discrimination—both underscore the need for safer, fairer care and services.

CDC & Lead Safety: CDC spotlighted American Samoa’s lead poisoning prevention push, noting the program was built from the ground up in 2025 and reached a first lead surveillance baseline after testing 500+ young children. Medicaid Prevention Outreach: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching “Medicaid Wellness” podcasts to promote prevention for non-communicable diseases with local providers. Infectious Disease Funding: HHS/CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a “Two Samoas, One Public Health Vision” summit focused on preparedness, surveillance, response, and cross-border coordination. Opioid Settlement Questions: Lawmakers raised concerns about transparency and budgeting for American Samoa’s opioid settlement funds after reports showed more than $860,000 received this year. Community Health Remembrance: Flags will be lowered Oct. 2 in honor of Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga, recognizing decades of medical service and advocacy. Regional Health Context: CDC data show dengue rising in Florida (392 cases in 2026 so far), underscoring mosquito-bite prevention as cases spread. Health & Environment Watch: Eighteen territorial groups filed a Supreme Court brief urging the Air Force to follow environmental and community engagement standards for open detonation of dangerous explosives, citing contamination risks tied to cancer and drinking water. Cancer Death Notice: The family of Bishop Fomai Amituanai Sr. announced his peaceful passing after a stage 4 stomach cancer battle.

Lead Poisoning Prevention: CDC spotlighted American Samoa’s new Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention work, noting that in 2025 local DOH leadership built the program from scratch, testing 500+ young children and setting the territory’s first lead surveillance baseline. Medicaid Outreach: The Medicaid Office is visiting villages and launching “Medicaid Wellness” podcasts to push prevention for non-communicable diseases with local providers. Infectious Disease Capacity: A new CDC-linked grant notice brings $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and infectious disease surveillance in American Samoa for the next year of a five-year project through 2029. Public Health Collaboration: The Two Samoas Public Health Summit opened, focusing on preparedness, surveillance, response, and cross-border work on issues including lymphatic filariasis and obesity research. Immunization Access: Reports say COVID-19 shots for children are delayed in some places, raising concerns for vaccine access through federal programs that also include American Samoa. Opioid Settlement Scrutiny: Lawmakers questioned why opioid settlement funds aren’t clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget, with finance officials citing about $1.6–$1.7 million in the account while a strategy is still being developed. Health & Care Access: A letter urges more transparency on Medicaid funding for elderly residents and people with disabilities after federal approvals for personal care and home health aide services were described as hard to enroll locally.

CDC Funding Boost: The American Samoa Department of Health received a $250,586 CDC grant to strengthen epidemiology, lab capacity, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on cross-border preparedness, aligning surveillance and lab work, and tackling priorities like lymphatic filariasis and obesity research. Immunization Access Concern: Reports say COVID-19 shots for children are being delayed in the Vaccine for Children program in multiple states and territories, including American Samoa, raising worries for fall vaccination efforts. Opioid Settlement Transparency: During FY2027 Special Programs budget review, lawmakers questioned why American Samoa’s opioid settlement funds aren’t clearly reflected in the proposed spending plan, with finance officials citing an account balance and ongoing strategy work. Health Leadership Visit: DOH hosted World Health Organization delegates from Samoa to support territory-wide health and wellness initiatives. Time Change Reminder: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026 at 2 a.m., with clocks “falling back” one hour—important for sleep and routines.

CDC Funding Boost: The American Samoa Department of Health received a $250,586 CDC grant to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance and response through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met to align surveillance, lab and genomic collaboration, and outbreak preparedness, including tabletop exercises and lymphatic filariasis elimination work. COVID Vaccine Access Concern: Reports say the U.S. delayed seasonal COVID-19 shots for children in the Vaccine for Children (VFC) program, raising worries about access for eligible kids, including in American Samoa. Local Health Policy Pressure: Lawmakers questioned how American Samoa’s opioid settlement funds are tracked and reflected in the FY2027 budget, with concerns about transparency and where the money is going. Medicaid Services Still Out of Reach: A letter urges clearer action on Medicaid funding for elderly residents and people with disabilities, saying approved services can’t be enrolled due to an insufficient local match. Dengue Watch: CDC data show Florida’s dengue cases are rising, a reminder to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water. Community Health Education: A new Pacific child-health digital textbook was released, with local partners including American Samoa Community College helping build regional capacity. Remembering Dr. Iotamo Saleapaga: Flags will be lowered statewide on Oct. 2, 2026 to honor the late doctor’s service and advocacy. Disability Rights Lawsuit: A federal agency sued a Las Vegas call center over alleged disability discrimination and retaliation tied to workplace accommodations.

CDC Funding for Local Public Health: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced a $250,586 CDC grant to the American Samoa Department of Health to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on cross-border preparedness, surveillance alignment, and lab and genomic collaboration, including work on lymphatic filariasis and obesity research. COVID Vaccine Access Uncertainty: Reports say the CDC delayed seasonal COVID-19 shot distribution through the Vaccine for Children program, raising concerns for children’s access in places including American Samoa. Opioid Settlement Transparency: During FY2027 budget review, lawmakers questioned why American Samoa’s opioid settlement funds aren’t clearly reflected in spending plans; officials said about $1.6–$1.7 million sits in the account while a strategy is still being developed. Dengue Watch: CDC data show Florida nearing record dengue levels, with American Samoa also reporting hundreds of cases—reminding residents to prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water. Coral Reef Health Grants: A $2.1 million package of grants will support heat-resilient coral and reef restoration work in Florida, Hawai‘i, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

CDC Funding Boost for AS Epidemiology: The U.S. HHS/CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on cross-border preparedness, surveillance, lab and genomic collaboration, and outbreak response. COVID Vaccine Access Uncertainty: Reports say the federal Vaccine for Children program is facing delays for seasonal COVID-19 shots, leaving many eligible children unsure when they can get vaccinated, including in American Samoa. Dengue Watch in the Region: CDC data show hundreds of dengue cases in American Samoa and rising numbers in Florida, with mosquito bite prevention and standing-water cleanup urged. Opioid Settlement Funds Questioned: AS lawmakers asked why opioid settlement payments aren’t clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget; officials cited an account balance and said a strategy is still being developed. Coral Reef Resilience Grants: NFWF announced $2.1 million for projects to improve heat-resilient coral and reduce sediment pollution, including in American Samoa. Time Change Reminder: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026 at 2 a.m., when most places “fall back” one hour.

CDC Funding for ASDOH: The U.S. HHS/CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met at the ASCC MPC Auditorium to boost cross-border preparedness, align surveillance and lab work, and focus on priorities like lymphatic filariasis and obesity research. Dengue Watch: CDC data show Florida at 392 dengue cases in 2026, with American Samoa also reporting hundreds—reminding residents to prevent mosquito bites and remove standing water. COVID Vaccine Access Concerns: Reports say the CDC delayed seasonal COVID-19 vaccine distribution for the federal Vaccine for Children program, raising worries for eligible children in American Samoa and other jurisdictions. Opioid Settlement Transparency: During FY2027 budget review, lawmakers questioned why American Samoa’s yearly opioid settlement payments (over $860,000 reported) aren’t clearly reflected in the spending plan; officials cited about $1.6–$1.7 million in the account and said a strategy is still being developed. Coral Reef Grants: NFWF announced $2.1 million in grants (with matching funds) to support heat-resilient coral and reef restoration work in American Samoa and other U.S. Pacific areas.

Epidemiology Funding Boost: The U.S. CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health professionals from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on cross-border preparedness, surveillance alignment, and lab/genomic collaboration, including lymphatic filariasis and obesity research. COVID Vaccine Access Concern: Reports say the federal Vaccine for Children program is delayed for seasonal COVID-19 shots, leaving many children—including in American Samoa—uncertain about when they can get vaccines. Opioid Settlement Transparency: Lawmakers questioned why American Samoa’s annual opioid settlement payments (over $860,000 reported) aren’t clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget, with officials citing an account balance and a developing spending strategy. Dengue Watch: Florida reported hundreds of dengue cases and a rare death; CDC data also show American Samoa with hundreds of cases this year. Community Health & Safety: WHO delegates met with American Samoa’s health leadership, and local discussions also highlighted the need for better access to approved Medicaid services.

CDC Grant for AS Epidemiology: The U.S. HHS/CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through 2029. Two Samoas Public Health Summit: Nearly 100 health leaders from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on preparedness, cross-border surveillance, lab/genomic collaboration, and outbreak response exercises. COVID Vaccine Access Delayed: The CDC has delayed seasonal COVID-19 shots for children tied to the VFC program, raising concerns about missed vaccination opportunities in American Samoa and other “universal” purchasers. Dengue Watch: Florida reported a first dengue death of 2026 and hundreds of cases; CDC data also show American Samoa continues to record hundreds of dengue infections. Opioid Settlement Transparency: Lawmakers questioned why American Samoa’s Opioid Settlement payments aren’t clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget, with officials citing an account balance and ongoing planning. Vision Screening for Kids: An OHSU pediatric team is screening about 230 students in Matafao Elementary as part of a broader effort to connect children to vision care. Coral Reef Funding: NFWF/NOAA announced $2.1 million in grants for coral resilience work in Florida, Hawai‘i, American Samoa, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Ecology & Health Link: Samoa’s introduced flatworm helped control invasive snails but also harmed native land snails, highlighting how ecosystem changes can ripple into public health and food security.

CDC Grant for Local Public Health: The U.S. HHS/CDC awarded American Samoa’s Department of Health $250,586 to strengthen epidemiology, lab work, and infectious disease surveillance through a five-year project running to 2029. Two Samoas Health Summit: Nearly 100 health leaders from American Samoa and Samoa met for a three-day summit focused on cross-border preparedness, surveillance alignment, lab and genomic collaboration, and outbreak response drills. COVID Vaccine Access Uncertainty: Reports say the CDC delayed seasonal COVID-19 shots for the federal Vaccine for Children program, putting many eligible children—including in American Samoa—at risk of delayed protection. Opioid Settlement Transparency Questions: During FY2027 budget review, lawmakers asked why opioid settlement payments (over $860,000 reported this year) aren’t clearly reflected in the territory’s spending plan; finance officials said the account holds about $1.6–$1.7 million while a strategy is still being developed. Dengue Watch: Florida reported hundreds of dengue cases and its first 2026 death; CDC data also show American Samoa with hundreds of cases this year. Child Vision Screening: An OHSU pediatric eye team is screening about 230 students at Matafao Elementary, continuing a partnership to connect children to vision care. Coral Reef Funding: NFWF/NOAA/Aramco announced $2.1 million in grants to boost coral resilience, including projects in American Samoa. Ecology & Food Safety: Samoa’s introduced flatworm helped target invasive snails but also harmed native snails, raising concerns about unintended impacts on local biodiversity.

Public Health & Preparedness: The Two Samoas Health Summit opened this week in American Samoa, bringing together DOH leaders and Samoa’s Ministry of Health to strengthen cross-border preparedness, surveillance, lab work, and outbreak response through sessions and tabletop exercises. Chronic Disease Focus: WHO delegates met with American Samoa DOH leadership to support efforts that protect and promote wellbeing, with non-communicable diseases a key theme across the Pacific. Immunization Access: A report says COVID-19 vaccine distribution for children is delayed in the U.S. under the federal VFC program, raising concerns about access for eligible families, including in American Samoa. Local Health Funding Scrutiny: Lawmakers questioned how American Samoa’s Opioid Settlement funds are managed, noting payments shown online may not be clearly reflected in the FY2027 budget. Health Data Support: CDC awarded American Samoa DOH $324,271 for targeted BRFSS data collection to improve health equity and chronic disease planning. Mosquito-Borne Alert: Florida reported rising dengue cases and a rare death, underscoring the need for mosquito bite prevention and standing-water control. Vision Screening: An OHSU pediatric team began school vision screenings for about 230 students under an ongoing Maternal and Child Health partnership. Reef Resilience Grants: NFWF announced $2.1 million in grants to improve coral reef health and resilience, including projects in American Samoa.