The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) announced the official launch of a consolidated Central Intake Reporting system. This initiative, established in collaboration with Adult Protective Services at the Aging & Long-Term Services Department, aims to improve the reporting and addressing of abuse, neglect, and exploitation (ANE).
As depicted in the 2023 Incident Management Bureau (IMB) Annual Report, part of the fiscal year 2023 publication by the Division of Health Improvement at DOH, this undertaking showcases promising cooperative efforts.
The IMB report revealed significant findings, such as confirmation of 777 allegations. This reflected an earnest commitment to investigate and address ANE issues. Out of these validated allegations, 547 individuals were identified as victims—signifying how investigations can safeguard vulnerable people. The IMB's collaborations with various agencies enable referrals for criminal prosecution, abuse registry placement, licensing board review and more. With a total of 2,259 investigations conducted last year, it is clear that heightened focus on ANE has yielded tangible results—a testament to collaborative efforts enabling comprehensive examination. Moreover, DOH press release underlined an Immediate Action and Safety Plan's critical role in ensuring individuals' well-being during investigations by providing immediate support and protection.
DOH Cabinet Secretary Patrick Allen stated following the tragic Mary Melero case: "the New Mexico Department of Health has heeded this wake-up call, intensifying oversight efforts." He continued: "Our heightened vigilance has yielded significant results uncovering additional instances of abuse, neglect, and exploitation," emphasizing vigilance and accountability's paramount role in protecting vulnerable individuals under their care.
According to its webpage provided by the Aging & Long-Term Services Department, The Adult Protective Services (APS) division is dedicated to securing vulnerable adults unable to protect themselves while promoting personal choice and self-determination. It operates through five distinct regions that collectively cover all 33 counties in New Mexico.
