The NM Department of Health has unveiled plans for the 2023 New Mexico Statewide Community Health Workers Conference. Hosted by the Santa Ana Star Casino Hotel, this event will offer two days of learning opportunities and workforce development for New Mexico state Community Health Workers/Representatives seeking certification according to a press release.

The New Mexico Department of Health's Office of Community Health Workers (OCHW) is observing New Mexico Community Health Workers Month and will be organizing the 2023 New Mexico Statewide Community Health Workers Conference on October 16 & 17, 2023, in Bernalillo, N.M. Established in 2014, OCHW was one of the pioneering offices of its kind in the United States, offering essential training for state CHW certification and re-certification, including core competency and specialty training opportunities according to a press release.

“Community health workers are at the forefront of our efforts to alleviate health disparities and managing chronic diseases in public health,” said DOH Secretary Patrick Allen according to a press release. “In rural and frontier regions, they are often the first resource for residents to engage with when talking about their health concerns.”

This year's conference sessions will cover essential topics, including details about the New Mexico Medicaid Reimbursement model, introduced in July 2023 in collaboration with the state Human Services Department's Medical Assistance Division. Community Health Workers, who are often based in rural areas, play a vital role in linking individuals to essential medical and health-related services, including support within social systems of care. They are also referred to as Tribal Community Health Representatives and Promotoras, depending on the region within the state according to a press release.

“Community Health Workers are the unwavering support system for those seeking direction in their journey to access essential aid, making their impact immeasurable," said Devona Quam, Office of Community Health Workers Director, according to a press release.