Deb Haaland, a candidate for governor of New Mexico, has called on the University of New Mexico’s Board of Regents to increase pay for resident physicians working within the UNM Health system. Her request comes as the state faces a significant shortage of doctors, ranking second worst in the country.
Haaland expressed support for demands made by resident physicians represented by the Committee of Interns and Residents (CIR/SEIU). In her letter to the Board of Regents, she wrote: “I am concerned that New Mexicans aren’t getting the healthcare they need – some people wait months for doctor’s appointments, must go out of state to see a specialist, and can’t afford care.”
She highlighted that this issue impacts everyone in New Mexico, including patients, doctors, and caregivers. Haaland further stated: “Yet despite their critical importance, their compensation remains among the lowest in the Southwest, a reality that does not reflect their dedication, workload, or value to our healthcare system.”
New Mexico’s healthcare system is facing additional pressure due to rising costs and proposed cuts to Medicaid under former President Donald Trump’s administration. Medicaid currently covers about 34% of people in New Mexico. These factors contribute to challenges in accessing affordable healthcare and underscore the urgency of supporting and retaining medical professionals in the state.
The Board is also considering removing anti-discrimination language from residents’ contracts. Haaland argues that such policies are necessary so doctors can effectively serve New Mexico’s diverse communities.
Haaland referenced her personal experience with health insurance challenges faced by many residents. She stated her priorities if elected governor would include protecting Medicaid access, lowering healthcare premiums, investing in rural hospitals, and recruiting more healthcare providers.
