University Of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
Recent News About University Of New Mexico Health Sciences Center
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Navajo Nation graduate's journey from poverty to public health advocacy
Hannah Norberto, a resident of Sheep Springs in the Navajo Nation, has faced significant challenges throughout her life. Despite growing up in a loving home, she and her family often struggled to meet basic needs due to financial constraints. Norberto recalls times when they could not afford essential services like electricity and utilities. "I remember times where my family often struggled with the financial strain of maintaining essential services like electricity and utilities in our Native community," Norberto said.
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More on Medical Assistants (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Health Care Workers Week is a chance to recognize health care teams who work tirelessly to ensure the well-being of their fellow community members. A vivid reminder of their dedication happened during the global COVID-19 pandemic, when countless lives and careers were turned upside down, and health care workers’ demands were multiplied in unprecedented ways. It was during that time of uncertainty when UNM Health team member Valerie Miles was determined to press forward in her field, even if it meant shifting to a new role.
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Inspiring nursing student overcomes challenges to graduate and make a difference
"Ashley McMains is not only a nursing student; she's also a testament to resilience, compassion, and the power of determination. Graduating from The University of New Mexico College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Ashley's journey has been marked by challenges and triumphs alike, shaping her into an exceptional individual ready to make a profound impact in the health care field. Throughout her academic tenure, McMains’ commitment to excellence and service has been evident. Engaging in various leadership roles, such as serving as the Partnership Chair...
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UNM Health Celebrates Health Care Workers Week
In a show of gratitude and appreciation, The University of New Mexico Health System is commemorating Health Care Workers Week from May 6 -12, 2024. The week is dedicated to honoring the tireless efforts and invaluable contributions of the healthcare professionals within the UNM Health System.Expressing his admiration for the diverse team at UNM Health, Doug Ziedonis, MD, MPH, EVP of UNM Health Sciences and CEO of UNM Health System, stated, “I am so humbled and honored to work with such a diverse group of learners, educators, providers, collaborators, researchers,...
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UNM College of Nursing: Celebrating our Nurses
The University of New Mexico College of Nursing, in celebration of National Nurses Week, highlights the dedication and passion of nurses in various facets of the profession. Dean Carolyn Montoya emphasized the importance of recognizing nurses year-round, stating, “Nurses are foundational to health care in both New Mexico and beyond. It is vital that we support those dedicated to this field, whether they be active professionals, students, educators, retired, or a combination thereof.”Sharia Betsoi, a student in the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at UNM...
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UNM School of Medicine Gives Scholarships to All 2024 Graduating MDs
The University of New Mexico’s School of Medicine is once again providing scholarships to all graduating medical doctors (MDs), continuing a tradition that started last year. Ashley Salazar, Chief Advancement and External Relations Officer at UNM School of Medicine, expressed the Alumni Association's support for the new MD alumni, stating, “This is the Alumni Association’s support of the newest members of the alumni as they transition into a new and challenging portion of their journey into medicine.”This year, 65 MD graduates will each receive the $1,000 Lobo MD...
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Inspiring Grad: Ashlynn Black, Doctor of Medicine
Medical students and their families gathered at The University of New Mexico for the momentous occasion of Match Day, where Doctor of Medicine (MD) students find out their residency placements. For Ashlynn Black, a Native American student, Match Day was not only significant for her future but also for her community.Black, speaking in Navajo, introduced herself and shared her cultural background, stating, “I am the Red House clan, born for the Towering House Clan. My maternal grandfather is the Red Running into Water clan. My paternal grandfather is the Red House clan.”...
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Inspiring Grad: Heather Cabos, Doctor of Pharmacy
Heather Cabos, a soon-to-be Doctor of Pharmacy graduate from The University of New Mexico College of Pharmacy, is set to embark on a new chapter in her career with a deep-rooted passion for patient care. Cabos, who will soon officially be known as "doctor" and "pharmacist," emphasized the importance of pharmacists in advocating for patients who may have been overlooked, stating, “Pharmacy is extremely important in my eyes. I’ve seen numerous times throughout my rotations where patients have been forgotten or slipped through the cracks. Pharmacists have been the ones to find...
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UNM Health System's Patient Experience Celebrated During Patient Experience Week
The University of New Mexico Health System is recognizing the dedication and compassion of its healthcare professionals during Patient Experience Week. According to a statement released, the week of April 29 is a time to honor the health care workers who are committed to making a positive impact on patients across the state.Among the thousands of professionals within the UNM Health System, the focus remains on providing quality patient care. As the statement highlights, teams across the system work diligently every day to ensure New Mexicans receive top-notch care with...
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UNM Hospital’s Critical Care Tower Showcases Local Artists’ Work
The University of New Mexico Hospital's Critical Care Tower (CCT) is set to be adorned with over 100 unique pieces of artwork, thanks to a $1.5 million grant from the state of New Mexico's public art fund. Fabián Armijo, Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at UNM Hospital, emphasized the significance of art in New Mexico, stating, "Art is very important to New Mexicans, from the religious art of northern New Mexico to Native American jewelry."The selection process for the artwork in the CCT was meticulous and involved a committee that carefully curated...
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Celebrating Culture and Wellness on Día de Salud!
The University of New Mexico Health System, in collaboration with the National Hispanic Cultural Center Foundation (NHCCF), is gearing up for the second annual Día de Salud, a "Day of Health" event aimed at connecting community members with health education and resources. Jamie Silva-Steele, President of UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center, expressed excitement about the event's cultural approach, stating, "What is really exciting about Día de Salud is it is an opportunity to reach the Hispanic community in a way that embraces our cultural background and allows them to...
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UNM Health Recognized Among Top Places to Work in Health Care
The University of New Mexico Health system has been named among the 150+ Top Places to Work in Healthcare in 2024 by Becker's Hospital Review. This recognition underscores UNM Health's commitment to its employees and the community it serves.Doug Ziedonis, MD, MPH, Executive Vice President of UNM Health Sciences and CEO of the UNM Health System, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thanks to all our leaders, employees, students, learners, and volunteers who are working to make a difference, use their creativity and innovation, be mission-focused, work collaboratively, and...
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Healthy Living & Diabetes Awareness Fair 2024
Nearly 202,000 New Mexicans have been diagnosed with diabetes, according to The American Diabetes Association (ADA). On top of that, an additional 53,000 New Mexicans do not even know they have diabetes. It’s estimated the statewide cost for people to treat diabetes is $2 billion each year.Amy Bachyrycz, PharmD, emphasized the importance of raising local awareness about diabetes and offering support, especially to residents in Albuquerque’s International District facing various health-related challenges. Bachyrycz, an associate professor and the director of community...
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A Second Chance at Life: The Miracle Behind Blood Drive at SRMC
Brenda Murray, the director of environmental services at The University of New Mexico Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC), recently organized a blood drive with a heartfelt purpose. The initiative stemmed from a personal experience that left her deeply grateful for the generosity of blood donors. Murray's son, Joey Vigil, was involved in a severe accident that led to life-threatening injuries, ultimately requiring 74 blood product transfusions to save his life.Describing the harrowing incident, Murray recounted, "He went off a cliff and nose-dived into a cement...
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Microplastics Make Their Way from the Gut to Other Organs, UNM Researchers Find
In a recent study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, researchers at the University of New Mexico have made a concerning discovery regarding the impact of microplastics on the human body. Led by Eliseo Castillo, PhD, an expert in mucosal immunology, the research sheds light on the journey of microplastic particles from the gut to other vital organs.Castillo emphasizes the significance of gut health, stating, "If you don't have a healthy gut, it affects the brain, it affects the liver and so many other tissues." The study revealed that microplastics...
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Sustainability to be a Major Focus for UNM Hospital’s Critical Care Tower
The University of New Mexico Hospital is setting a new standard for sustainability with its upcoming critical care tower (CCT), incorporating eco-friendly principles into its design and construction to promote a healthier future for both patients and the environment.Todd Tierney, region director of architecture and senior vice president of HDR, emphasized that the CCT goes beyond just treating symptoms. Tierney stated, “The design of the CCT does not just treat the symptoms, it helps alleviate the causes of environmental issues.” He also highlighted that the facility aims...
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UNM Nurse-Midwifery Program Ranks 11th Nationally in U.S. News and World Report
The University of New Mexico College of Nursing's Master of Science in Nursing Nurse-Midwifery program has been recognized as the 11th best in the nation by U.S. News and World Report's 2025 edition of America’s Best Graduate Schools. Felina Ortiz, DNP, RN, CNM, FACNM, interim Nurse-Midwifery program coordinator, expressed her pride in the program, stating, “This ranking for the Nurse-Midwifery program is a testament to the dedication, scholarly curiosity, and passion for community modeled by UNM’s nurse-midwives and midwifery students.”The College's commitment to...
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UNM Research Teams Focus on Child Brain Development
Researchers from The University of New Mexico recently gathered at the Brain & Behavioral Health Institute (BBHI) Research Day to present their latest findings on child brain development. The event, which took place at the Domenici Center for Health Sciences Education, focused on various aspects of child neurodevelopment. Keynote speaker Ryan Bogdan, PhD, from Washington University in St. Louis, led a discussion on the genetic and prenatal influences underlying substance use disorder.The Research Day featured over 200 participants and attendees, showcasing 71 poster...
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UNM Nursing Student Inspired by Navajo Grandfather
Paris Morgan, a student at the UNM College of Nursing, shared her inspiration for pursuing a nursing degree, influenced by her Navajo grandfather who was a medicine man. She emphasized the importance of having Native American healthcare providers who understand the unique needs of rural reservation life. Morgan expressed her desire to be a nurse who recognizes the diversity within Native American communities, stating, “we are nuanced groups.”With a goal of returning to Gallup, New Mexico to serve her community on the Navajo reservation, Morgan is currently gaining...
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Even Moderate Alcohol Usage During Pregnancy Linked to Birth Abnormalities, UNM Researchers Find
University of New Mexico researchers, led by Ludmila Bakhireva, have discovered that even low to moderate alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to subtle changes in prenatal development, affecting factors such as birth length and gestational duration. In a study published in the journal Alcohol Clinical & Experimental Research, Bakhireva highlighted some sex-related differences in the impact of alcohol consumption on fetal development.Bakhireva emphasized the importance of the study's findings, stating, "Almost everybody drinks before they know they are pregnant,...