Dr. David Katz, vice dean for Clinical Affairs at Touro College of Dental Medicine, addressed the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Board on November 14. He provided updates on Touro's plan to establish New Mexico's first dental college in Albuquerque.

During the Chamber's monthly board meeting, Katz emphasized the unique opportunity New Mexico presents for aspiring dentists and healthcare providers. The state currently has only 48.4 dentists per 100,000 people, making it one of the lowest dentist-to-population ratios in the country. This shortage indicates a critical need for more dental professionals in the region.

Touro College of Dental Medicine is committed to addressing this gap by setting up a new dental education and clinical facility in Albuquerque. By offering local access to dental education, Touro aims to encourage students to practice within the state where they train, thereby providing essential dental care to underserved communities and supporting the growth of the local healthcare workforce.

Additionally, Touro's mission includes providing care to underserved populations. With nearly half of New Mexico's population on Medicaid, it ranks among the poorest and most underserved areas in the United States.

Katz noted that by 2026, there will be 200 students residing in New Mexico completing their two-year program. He also mentioned efforts to establish a relationship with UNM to create pathways for students. "I’m hopeful that a percentage of students will continue to stay in the state," Katz said. "The college is working on pathway programs directly from high school as well as those with UNM." Currently, there are two New Mexican students enrolled in Touro’s program.