Long-Term Care Quality: Minneapolis-based Health Dimensions Group says nine managed senior living and assisted living communities earned AHCA/NCAL’s 2026 Bronze—Commitment to Quality Award, highlighting ongoing quality improvement across multiple states. New Respiratory Therapy Launch: Tactile Systems Technology rolled out a next-generation AffloVest high-frequency chest wall oscillation system, aiming to improve comfort and connected-care features for chronic respiratory conditions like cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. Medicaid Revalidation Update: Minnesota DHS says billing is back for about 2,140 providers that appealed during its Medicaid provider revalidation process, after criticism from lawmakers over disenrollments. University of Minnesota Health Expansion: The U of M Board of Regents approved new health and healthcare partnership agreements with U of M Physicians and Fairview, plus enrollment and flexible learning efforts tied to its 2030 strategy. Public Health Monitoring: Marshall’s sewage plant is now helping the state track COVID and other respiratory viruses through wastewater testing, described as an early-warning tool. Mental Health Access: A new Emplify EmPATH unit in La Crosse, Wis., adds an intermediate option for adult psychiatric crises amid inpatient shortages. Community Health & Longevity: A report spotlights how social connection supports long life in rural North Dakota, with daily gathering places tied to lower stress.