Phoenix health update: cooling centers, VA upgrades, Medicaid formulary changes, and measles watch

ByWeence

Phoenix, AZ – March 3, 2026 – Phoenix expanded cooling center hours for 2026 as VA upgrades and Medicaid updates roll out; measles cases rise.

Heat response: Phoenix approves expanded cooling center access

The City of Phoenix announced details of its 2026 Heat Response Plan after the Mayor and City Council approved the plan on Feb. 24. City officials again described extreme heat as a public health emergency and said the updated plan will keep multiple cooling options available across the city.

The city plans to continue operating a 24/7 respite center at 20 W. Jackson Street. Phoenix also said it will add afternoon and evening cooling hours at Justa Center, 1001 W. Jefferson Street, and extend hours at Cholla Library, including later evenings and added Sunday and holiday access.

Hospital operations: Phoenix VA begins infrastructure upgrades

The Phoenix VA Health Care System said it has begun a set of facility upgrades aimed at supporting safe, effective care for veterans. The VA listed first-quarter projects that include renovating and expanding laboratory space, modernizing the operating suite, renovating pharmacy space, upgrading HVAC units in multiple buildings, and renovating the infusion clinic.

The VA said the work is funded through the Veterans Health Administration Non-Recurring Maintenance program, part of broader federal investment to modernize and repair VA facilities.

Health insurance: Medicaid plan posts April formulary update notice

Arizona Complete Health-Complete Care Plan posted a notice that it will implement AHCCCS formulary changes effective April 1, 2026. The plan said the updates are based on recommendations from the AHCCCS Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committee and directed clinicians and providers to review its preferred drug lists for the latest coverage details.

For patients who use AHCCCS coverage, formulary updates can change which medications are listed as preferred and how prescriptions are processed across pharmacies and clinics.

Outbreak watch: CDC reports continued measles activity in 2026

In its latest national update dated Feb. 27, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,136 confirmed measles cases in the United States in 2026 as of Feb. 26, with most cases associated with outbreaks. The CDC list of jurisdictions reporting cases this year includes Arizona.

Public health agencies update guidance as investigations progress. Residents should follow local public health information and use a licensed clinician for individual questions about vaccination and exposure.

Sources

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/heat-news/city-of-phoenix-unveils-robust-2026-heat-response-plan.html
https://www.va.gov/phoenix-health-care/news-releases/phoenix-va-upgrades-health-care-infrastructure/
https://www.azcompletehealth.com/newsroom/PU26023.html
https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/

If you have urgent symptoms, seek medical care. For general questions, talk with a licensed clinician.

Brian 'Weence' Bateman is a seasoned medical and health writer with over a decade of experience in web development, search optimization, and social media for dentists and healthcare providers. His in-depth knowledge and dedication to the field are evident in the meticulously researched and informative content he produces.

Expertise:
Brian combines his technical skills with a deep understanding of healthcare topics to provide content that is accurate, reliable, and engaging. His unique perspective ensures that readers receive valuable information that is both accessible and insightful.

Background:
Over the years, Brian has worked closely with numerous dental and healthcare professionals, gaining valuable insights and understanding of the industry. This hands-on experience allows him to write with authority on a wide range of health-related topics, from dental care to the latest in medical advancements.

Commitment to Quality:
Brian is committed to delivering high-quality content that educates and empowers readers. By staying updated with the latest research and industry trends, he ensures that every article is comprehensive, engaging, and beneficial to both professionals and the general public.

Connect with Brian:
Engage with Brian through comments, shares, and likes to join the conversation on the latest in health and wellness. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions about your health with content you can trust.

Similar Posts