Medical Supply Expansion in Fajardo: Customed Inc. will invest $12 million to expand sterilization capacity in Fajardo, adding specialized infrastructure and 35 new jobs—aimed at strengthening Puerto Rico’s medical device supply chain. Hospice & Care Impact: Coverage highlights how hospices in Puerto Rico generate major economic activity, underscoring the sector’s growing role in local health services. Medicaid Drug Pricing Push: Puerto Rico is participating in CMS’s GENEROUS Model for Medicaid drug pricing, a move that could reshape net costs and coverage criteria for outpatient medications. Local Sterilization Compliance: Steri-Tech faces a $700,000 Clean Air Act settlement tied to Puerto Rico emissions, a reminder that health-industry growth depends on environmental compliance. Workplace Rights Update: Puerto Rico Act 185-2026 amends the summary labor claims process to let prevailing employees recover litigation costs while keeping fast timelines. Public Health Workforce/Access: PHSU is seeking up to 300 furnished housing spaces for its growing student population, supporting future clinicians and researchers. Disaster Readiness: Direct Relief is sending emergency medical aid to Hawaii ahead of Hurricane Nolo, including supplies for diabetes, hypertension, asthma, infections, and wounds. Health Coverage Context: A federal Senate vote advanced a key HHS deputy nomination tied to Medicare/Medicaid/CDC/FDA operations, with vaccine access and drug pricing concerns driving debate. Safety & Care at Sea: A crew member from Allure of the Seas was airlifted after severe chronic abdominal pain while the ship was northwest of Puerto Rico. Time Change Note: Daylight saving time ends Nov. 1, 2026—clocks fall back at 2 a.m., affecting sleep and daily routines.