ASPR Announces Competition for Antiviral Drug Development Targeting Certain Viruses
The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) has unveiled a $100 million Small Molecule Approaches for Rapid and Robust Treatment Prize to spur antiviral drug development. The competition targets viruses in the Togaviridae and Flaviviridae families, including dengue, Zika, West Nile and Chikungunya. BARDA will manage the prize, drawing expertise from drug development, virology, artificial intelligence, medicinal chemistry and public health. Applicants must submit proposals by May 11, 2026, after a series of virtual information sessions.
Webinar to Discuss Grant Resources for Rural Health Organizations
The American Hospital Association hosted a webinar during its 2026 Rural Health Care Leadership Conference to guide rural providers through available grant programs. Speakers including AHA EVP Michelle Hood and Sanford Health CEO Bill Gassen highlighted practical funding strategies and...
Maine Hospital Association President Michaud to Retire; Jeffrey Austin Named Successor
The Maine Hospital Association announced that long‑time President Steven Michaud will retire after a 27‑year tenure, having led the organization since 1999. Jeffrey Austin, currently vice president of government affairs and communications, will take over as president on March 1, 2026....
Senate Aging Committee Holds Hearing on Physician Burnout
The Senate Special Committee on Aging convened a hearing on Feb. 11 to address the growing physician burnout crisis. The American Hospital Association (AHA) urged Congress to act on three bills: the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act to simplify...
House Subcommittee Hearing Discusses Impacts of Drug Pricing on Health Care Costs
The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on Feb. 11 to examine how prescription‑drug pricing affects overall health‑care costs. The American Hospital Association (AHA) testified, warning that proposals to replace the 340B drug‑pricing program with a rebate...
