Arizona Faces $190M Public Health Grant Cut from Federal Government

MOHAVE COUNTY, Ariz. — Arizona’s health department is facing significant cuts after federal officials announced the cancellation of over $190 million in grant funds. This decision directly affects public health efforts aimed at detecting and controlling infectious diseases across the state.

The announcement follows a major reallocation of COVID-19-related funding, specifically the withdrawal of $11.4 billion aimed at local public health departments, based on the assertion that “the pandemic is over.”

Among the canceled grants are key programs such as the COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant and various sub-grants that support immunization and disease control initiatives. Officials underscored that these programs are essential for ensuring the safety and health of Arizona residents.

Health Director Melissa Palmer of the Mohave County Public Health Department highlighted that the funding cuts will have an “immediate” impact on their operations. The county anticipates losing approximately $800,000, which will affect mobile health services, communicable disease investigations, flu vaccination efforts, and children’s immunization programs. Notably, the Health Navigator program has already been discontinued.

The mobile health unit, crucial for providing free screenings for blood pressure, diabetes, mental health issues, and various diseases in underserved areas like Dolan Springs and Golden Shores, is now at risk.

Moreover, a 2022 health survey pointed to a concerning statistic: 20% of Mohave County residents reported their health as “fair or poor,” underscoring the pressing need for continued public health services.

The health department is currently collaborating with county managers to explore potential resource reallocations to mitigate the cuts’ impact on essential services.

For more information on this developing story, stay tuned to local news updates.