A new tool which puts local public health data at your fingertips.
Chambers settle back into committee work
After last week’s fast-paced crossover push, the Arizona Legislature has returned to a more familiar rhythm.
Committees are back on schedule, and lawmakers are beginning to work through the bills that successfully crossed over to the opposite chamber.
By the numbers: Before jumping into this week’s activity, here is a quick snapshot of where things stand this session:
Days of session: 53
Bills posted: 1,966
Bills passed: 14
Bills vetoed: 11
Bills signed: 3
Committee activity picks back up: The week got an early start on Monday at the Capitol. The House Health and Human Services Committee worked through what may have been its smallest agenda of the session so far, considering roughly half a dozen bills.
The Senate Health and Human Services Committee convened Wednesday morning to hear another short list of measures that crossed over from the House.
One bill that AzHHA has been watching closely will receive a hearing in the Senate this week.
HB2049, which aims to reduce barriers to cancer radiation treatment in rural Arizona, is scheduled for consideration.
AzHHA staff plan to testify in support of the bill, continuing the association’s support since the measure was first introduced earlier this session.
Our team continues to track the progress of both our priority legislation and the bills we oppose.
What's next: As we move deeper into March, we expect committee agendas to expand as lawmakers work toward the deadline later this month for bills to be heard in the opposite chamber.
Friday member legislative calls will continue this week with our next call at 1 p.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026.
AzHHA members must register to attend. Please contact Donna Di Orio with questions.
A standardized approach to strengthen nurse leadership
Through the Nurse Leadership Program, AzHHA is proud to offer a Certificate in Nurse Leadership, a 12-week, online program developed in partnership with leading health systems and grounded in real-world practice.
Why it matters: There is a sustained need for high-quality, standardized leadership training for nurse leaders across the state.
This structured learning experience provides a shared framework for leadership development, mentorship and professional growth at every level of nursing leadership.
What makes this program different?
Purpose-built for nurses: Designed specifically for clinical nurses stepping into — or already in — leadership roles.
Structured, yet flexible: Involves approximately a three-to-five-hour weekly time commitment.
Centralized leadership model: Supports consistent decision-making and communication across the organization.
Competency-based curriculum: Covers emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, communication strategies, financial acumen and operational decision-making.
Real-world application: Includes interactive case studies, guided reflection and opportunities to apply learnings directly to participants’ roles.
Scalable and collaborative: Fosters a consistent and adaptable leadership style that drives collaboration, accountability and workforce engagement.
The big picture: The program is made possible by funding and support provided by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). We’re grateful for their backing so that we can tackle this important work.
What’s next: Visit our program page to learn more about this program and its benefits.
The next cohort starts on Monday, March 23, 2026. If you’re interested in participating, email ttpprogram@azhha.org before Tuesday, March 10, 2026.
ADHS launches new tool putting local public health data at your fingertips
The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has launched Community Profiles, a new interactive tool that brings critical information about Arizona communities into one clear, easy to use experience.
Why it matters: Community Profiles allow local officials, researchers, nonprofit organizations and the public to explore up-to-date data on demographics, health outcomes, healthcare access, workforce availability, facilities and environmental conditions.
The big picture: The new application builds on the Public Health Data Portal launched last year, which centralized ADHS dashboards, reports and analytics tools.
Community Profiles takes the next step by translating statewide data into local insight and enabling easy comparisons between communities, counties and Arizona as a whole.
Welcome new health system member - Northern Arizona Healthcare
Get to know our new member: Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) is the largest healthcare organization in northern Arizona, a region that encompasses more than 50,000 square miles and serves more than 700,000 people each year. It is a nonprofit system with two hospitals, Flagstaff Medical Center and Verde Valley Medical Center.
The health system also maintains primary care and specialty physician clinics, outpatient surgical centers and multiple specialty centers including those focused on cardiovascular disease, cancer, rehab and sports medicine, children, and orthopedic and spine medicine.
NAH also owns and operates transport services through Guardian Air and Guardian Medical Transport.
David Cheney, MBA, FACHE, is the president and CEO.
Please join us in welcoming Northern Arizona Healthcare!
Becker’s Hospital Review 103 critical access hospital presidents and CEOs to know
Becker’s Hospital Review released a list of “103 critical access hospital presidents and CEOs to know” in 2025.
The list is based on nominations and editorial research.
Congratulations to Gary Kartchner, RN, who is the CEO of two AzHHA member hospitals, Benson Hospital and Northern Cochise Community Hospital, for being named to this list.
“A registered nurse, he brings frontline clinical credibility to executive decision-making and is known for staying closely connected to staff and care delivery realities. He has prioritized provider recruitment and retention, and has expended specialty access so patients can receive more services locally rather than traveling long distances.”
Saturday, March 14, 2026 - 13th Annual ACMA Case Management and Transitions of Care Conference The Arizona Chapter of the American Case Management Association (ACMA) hosts a day of education and networking for those who work in case management or transitions of care. Come learn about the latest advancements, exchange experiences and enjoy a great time with colleagues. Register now.
Friday, May 1, 2026 - From Crisis to Care: Improving Outcomes in Arizona’s Behavioral Health System The Arizona Public Health Association’s 98th Annual Conference will focus on strengthening Arizona’s behavioral health system and improving outcomes for people with mental and behavioral health needs. This year’s conference will highlight innovative strategies, evidence-based practices and policy approaches that move the system beyond crisis response and toward sustainable, person-centered care. Learn more and register.
June 9-10, 2026 - 2026 AzCHER Healthcare Emergency Preparedness Conference This year’s theme is “Many voices, one mission: Advancing healthcare preparedness together.” This year’s one-and-a-half-day conference features sessions shaped by member feedback and brings together experts across healthcare, public health and emergency management. Register now.
Save the Date: 2026 Arizona Hospital Leadership Conference Mark your calendar for the AzHHA Foundation’s 2026 Arizona Hospital Leadership Conference, taking place Oct. 21–23 at the El Conquistador Tucson, a Hilton Resort. This annual gathering brings together hospital and healthcare leaders from across the state for engaging discussions, networking and forward‑focused learning. Additional details, registration information and sponsorship opportunities will be shared in the coming months. Questions may be directed to communications@azhha.org.
