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This week, read about: The Governor signing a key AzHHA priority bill. Applications for the July 202

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Connection Newsletter

By AzHHA Communications April 24, 2025

Smart Brevity® count: 5 mins...1298 words

This week, read about:

  • The Governor signing a key AzHHA priority bill.

  • Applications for the July 2025 cohort of the Arizona Transition to Practice Program.

  • How the AzCHER app transforms emergency response.

Governor signs key AzHHA priority bill: Annual training now required for ADHS surveyors

Illustration of black and white bookshelves forming a negative space cross which is colored red, to evoke healthcare

We’re pleased to share that Governor Hobbs signed SB1219 (behavioral health facilities; accreditation) into law last Friday, marking the second AzHHA priority bill enacted this session. This critical legislation mandates the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to:

  • Publish an online complaint priority matrix defining complaint levels, classifications and investigation timelines.

  • Establish an annual training and competency program for licensing surveyors and supervisors to promote consistency, transparency and professionalism in their interactions with healthcare facilities.

This success follows the recent signing of HB2173 (mental health inquiry; prohibition), another AzHHA-backed priority to enhance the healthcare regulatory environment.

Governor issues bill veto moratorium: In a significant move, Governor Hobbs announced last Thursday a temporary moratorium on bill signings, pledging to veto any further legislation until an agreement is reached on funding for Arizona’s developmentally disabled population.

  • While this development has paused much of the legislative pipeline, AzHHA’s bills remain unaffected—two have already been signed, and others are still in the legislative process and have yet to reach the Governor’s desk.

  • Behind the scenes, negotiations continue, albeit with some political friction.

Status update on remaining AzHHA priority bills: Several of AzHHA’s key priorities continue to advance:

What’s next: We will continue to provide updates as progress unfolds.

Arizona Transition to Practice Program: Apply now for the July 2025 cohort!

Nurses

Applications are now open for the fifth cohort of the Arizona Transition to Practice Program for New Graduate Registered Nurses beginning in July 2025.

  • Any Arizona healthcare facility licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services that hires new graduate registered nurses may apply.

  • Priority is given to critical access hospitals or hospitals located in counties with a population of less than 500,000 people.

  • Hospitals with existing 12-month Transition to Practice programs are not eligible.

Why it matters: The Arizona Transition to Practice Program:

  • Supports and develops new nurses.

  • Provides evidence-based professional development.

  • Accelerates the novice nurse to a competent nurse more rapidly.

  • Addresses resilience and emergency preparedness.

What’s next:

  • 👉Applications are due Monday, May 12, 2025.

  • ℹ️Site champion information session is at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.

Apply now

🚨 AzCHER app transforms emergency response

Illustration of a red cross as a share icon.

Introducing the AzCHER mobile app, your essential tool for managing emergencies with efficiency and ease.

Why it matters: The app revolutionizes how healthcare coalitions and emergency responders handle crises by integrating preparedness, response and recovery resources into one seamless platform.

  • Users gain real-time access to critical information and coordination tools, enhancing readiness for any crisis - anytime, anywhere.

The big picture: With a user-friendly interface, the AzCHER app empowers quick and efficient decision-making, ensuring that emergency management is always at your fingertips.

Go deeper: Download the app today to experience the next level of emergency management.

  • Enhance your preparedness and response capabilities with the AzCHER app.

Q1 2025 Healthcare Labor Market Report

Stethoscope

From stabilizing bill rates to evolving labor laws, the healthcare workforce continues to change — and staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever.

Inside Adaptive Workforce Solutions’ Q1 2025 Healthcare Labor Market Report, you’ll find:

  • National and regional bill rate trends

  • Aya-Cross Country acquisition update

  • Frontline spotlight: Arizona Transition to Practice Program

  • Strategies for smarter workforce planning

Why it matters: Whether you’re navigating contract labor challenges today or planning for tomorrow, this report provides the insights you need to make informed decisions.

Download the report

To connect with an Adaptive Workforce Solutions representative, email Nick Harvick.

Attend the AHA Annual Membership Meeting in Washington, D.C.

The American Hospital Association (AHA) Annual Membership Meeting will be held from May 4-6, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

Why it matters: Join AzHHA at the event and on our Arizona delegation Hill visits. This is an important way we can make sure our collective voice is heard at the federal level.

The big picture: The meeting will feature insightful conversations with policymakers, legislators and thought leaders on our most pressing issues.

  • You’ll connect with decision makers who create, shape and implement healthcare policy and influence the political landscape.

Register now

From doubt to confidence: One nurse’s growth through the Arizona Transition to Practice Program

Brandee King photo

Brandee King, a nurse at Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center, wasn’t always sure she was cut out for the profession.

Why it matters: Since joining the program, Brandee has learned to manage self-doubt, workplace challenges and clinical responsibilities with growing confidence.

  • She credits consistent mentorship and peer support as key parts of her success.

Read her story

The big picture: The transition from nursing school to clinical practice can be overwhelming. The Arizona Transition to Practice Program helps bridge that gap.

  • Designed for newly licensed registered nurses, the program provides structured mentorship, peer learning and continuing education throughout the first year of practice.

Arizonans for Better Healthcare promotion

UPCOMING EVENTS

Tuesday, April 29 - Hospital Capacity Management Consortium
This free virtual event is the opportunity to connect with other healthcare capacity management professionals to innovate, find out what works and drive the field to create safer, more efficient hospitals. Register today.

Wednesday, May 14 - AZ Community Grand Rounds
This webinar will discuss the impacts of heat-related health risks in Arizona, effective mitigation strategies, and how to access and utilize available resources to support members in the community including vulnerable populations. Register here.

Wednesday, May 14 - AHA Workshop: Community health and the environment
The workshop will be held in Scottsdale, Ariz. and will bring together frontline hospital leaders in community health strategy, population health and emergency planning to better understand opportunities and challenges related to addressing community health and the environment. Interested in attending? Contact Sean Thorton or Andrew Jager.

Friday, May 16 - Emerging Technology and Tools - What are the Risks?
Join the Association for Healthcare Quality of Arizona for this virtual event to explore the latest advancements in digital health, human factors, compliance and emerging technologies. This event features speakers, interactive discussions and practical insights to help you navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare innovation. Learn more and register.

Wednesday, May 28 - Introduction to POLST
Join physician orders for life-sustaining treatment (POLST) paradigm for their one-hour virtual workshops equipping healthcare professionals with knowledge and resources to begin using POLST in Arizona. Register here.

May 28-30 - Az HFMA "Rev Up Your Rev Cycle" 2025 Spring Conference
Join other healthcare financial experts for an exciting conference in Scottsdale, Ariz. Hear from CFOs, revenue cycle experts, state and federal policy experts, AHCCCS and more. Register today.

IN THE NEWS

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