Social Equity Ownership Program rollout sets standard for the nation
Recently, 26 licenses were awarded under the Social Equity Ownership Program required by the voter-approved Proposition 207, which legalized adult-use marijuana in Arizona. Lasting less than three minutes, this live-streamed digital drawing might have made the process look easy. In fact, a great deal of thought and effort went into creating a successful program on the tight timeline required by [...]
Summer sun means protecting yourself against melanoma
Few things go together more than Arizona and sunshine. Yuma, Tucson, and Phoenix are among American cities with the most sunny days, but many places across our state see abundant sunshine. All that sun brings with it an increased risk of melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer that is increasingly common in Arizona. From 2014 to 2018, Arizona saw [...]
State employees contribute every day to Arizona’s well-being
Today is Arizona State Employee Recognition Day, as proclaimed by Governor Doug Ducey. The governor’s proclamation notes that state employees contribute significantly to the well-being and quality of life for all Arizonans. It adds that state employees embody the “spirit of service” that helps make Arizona a one-of-a-kind place to live, work, and play. As interim director of ADHS, I [...]
New campaigns and ASHLine.org update focus on positives of ending tobacco use
A recent ADHS news release featured our joint effort to reduce tobacco use among members of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) through ASHLine.org, the Arizona Smokers’ HelpLine. It features three campaigns stemming from focus group research with AHCCCS members. Their message was clear: Positive, supportive messages are the most effective way to encourage people to quit. The [...]
Seniors: Make sure your protection is up to date with a COVID-19 booster shot
I recently had the privilege of joining an AARP Arizona virtual town hall to discuss COVID-19 vaccines and, more importantly, why seniors should update their protection by following booster recommendations. Cases and deaths in Arizona have dropped significantly since the January peak, but COVID-19 is still active and infecting people. A large percentage of seniors made the wise decision to [...]
From Dr. Carmona: Have you gotten your booster shot?
Do you remember when you got your last COVID-19 vaccination? If it has been more than five months since you completed your primary vaccination series, it’s time for you to get your booster. You may be eligible even sooner depending which vaccine you received. If you are over the age of 50 and received your first booster at least four [...]