Jenifer Jones, a New Mexico State Representative for District 32, has expressed concerns about the state's healthcare system, describing it as being in critical condition. She highlighted issues such as long patient wait times and inadequate care in a press release dated March 10.
"It takes months to see a specialist and those who need care the most are left behind," said Jones. "We cannot afford to sidestep solutions. That's why we are unveiling the Healthcare, Opportunity, Protection, and Expansion Act, or the HOPE Act."
According to the press release, the HOPE Act is designed to bolster New Mexico’s healthcare workforce. It proposes increasing the Rural Health Care Practitioner Tax Credit, raising the maximum benefit to $15,000 for physicians and $9,000 for other practitioners. To attract and retain doctors, the act introduces a $50,000 annual income tax credit for up to five years for those with student loan debt who practice full-time in the state.
As of March 7, 2025, New Mexico has reported 30 confirmed measles cases, marking a significant increase from just 10 cases reported the previous day. This surge includes the state's first measles-related death in over four decades—an unvaccinated adult who had not sought medical care prior to passing away. Health officials have expressed concern that additional cases are likely due to measles' high contagion rate, according to Reuters.
The NM Political Report indicates that over 90% of New Mexico's hospitals are now owned by out-of-state corporations and private equity firms. This ownership shift has resulted in reduced staffing levels and increased workloads for doctors, affecting their ability to provide quality care. Consequently, there has been a 25% rise in hospital-related complications, contributing to provider burnout.
Jones's website outlines her background as a registered nurse and lifelong advocate for rural healthcare. She has sponsored legislation aimed at expanding tax credits for rural health practitioners and strengthening regulations on abortion clinics. Additionally, she is committed to Second Amendment rights, parental notification laws, and improving economic and educational opportunities in New Mexico.
