NM Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham | governor.state.nm.us
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced that 26 rural health care providers in New Mexico will receive a total of $40.6 million from the Rural Health Care Delivery Fund. This fund is part of the $46 million allocated during the 2024 legislative session to enhance health care services in rural areas.
Last fall, four rural health care organizations received $5.4 million for their readiness to implement services immediately.
"Every New Mexican deserves access to quality health care close to home," said Gov. Lujan Grisham. "My administration is committed to supporting and strengthening the health care provider network. By reducing financial barriers for rural providers, this fund will expand access to care and positively impact the health of New Mexicans."
The funding aims to support various services statewide, including behavioral health, primary care, and maternal and child health care. These investments are designed to address challenges faced by rural health providers such as geographic isolation and financial constraints.
"This funding empowers us to deliver essential healthcare services to the residents of Lea County, ensuring our community has access to comprehensive and timely primary care," said Nichole Chambers, CEO of the Guidance Center of Lea County. "This support allows us to address the unique needs of our rural population, improve health outcomes, and enhance the overall well-being of our community."
Eligible applicants included qualified Medicaid providers offering primary care, behavioral health, maternal child health services, and specialty care.
Rural health providers nationwide often struggle with geographic isolation and financial strain which complicates access to critical healthcare services. Gov. Lujan Grisham remains dedicated to expanding rural healthcare infrastructure across New Mexico.
Several projects have been funded across different regions:
- In Chaves County, Behavior Change Institute will open an autism diagnostic clinic.
- Home Modification Solutions will expand services in Mora, San Miguel, Socorro, and Torrance Counties.
- New Mexico Premier Health will extend urgent care services in Cibola and other counties.
- Presbyterian Healthcare Services plans behavioral health developments in Lincoln and Otero Counties.
- Roadrunner Home Health aims at expanding home health services across multiple counties.
In other regions:
- Changing Women’s Initiative is set to open maternal child clinics in tribal communities.
- Gallup Community Health will broaden preventative services in McKinley County.
- Pueblo of Jemez plans a diabetes wound clinic in Sandoval County.
For more information on the New Mexico Rural Health Care Delivery Fund recipients this year, visit https://www.hca.nm.gov/primary-care-council/.
