Wellness Equity Alliance has expressed concern following the decision by Bernalillo County Behavioral Health Authority to terminate its contract for Health Yeah! of New Mexico services nearly a year early. The termination, set to take effect on September 30, 2025, will halt school-based mobile health services for Albuquerque Public Schools. The county has not provided an explanation for this decision.
Health Yeah! has offered numerous no-cost visits to at-risk youth and families in Bernalillo County since its inception. Brandon Smith, Practice Manager for Health Yeah!, commented on the situation: "This decision is shocking and confusing after over 12 months of collaborative work with county officials, school staff, and community partners." He emphasized the uncertainty faced by patients due to the lack of a clear explanation or transition plan.
Dr. Tyler B. Evans, Chief Executive and Medical Officer for Wellness Equity Alliance, criticized the move as it forces physician abandonment and violates state law. "Blocking access to care for vulnerable families demonstrates poor responsibility on behalf of the county," he said.
Senior Pediatrician Dr. Dale Alverson highlighted that serving uninsured children without alternative care options is critical. He noted that less than 30 days' notice is inadequate and constitutes physician abandonment, pointing out that New Mexico best practices require at least 90 days' notice.
The Wellness Equity Alliance plans to attend the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners meeting on September 23, 2025, urging reconsideration of this decision. They encourage community members to sign a petition supporting Health Yeah! services and participate in advocacy efforts through their website.
Wellness Equity Alliance is committed to breaking down barriers in public health access for marginalized communities across the nation.
For more information or to support their cause, visit healthyeahnm.com/support or contact Janet Shapiro at Smith Publicity, Inc., via janet@smithpublicity.com.
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