New Mexico has submitted a proposal to the federal government, seeking $1 billion over five years from a $50 billion federal program aimed at enhancing rural health care. The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) sent its Rural Health Transformation Plan to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, detailing five strategic initiatives to improve health care in underserved areas.
The federal initiative will allocate $10 billion annually over five years to states with approved applications. New Mexico's potential funding could come from two sources: an equal distribution of $25 billion among all qualifying states and another $25 billion awarded based on competitive scoring and rural population metrics.
Dana Flannery, Medicaid director, said, "This plan reflects the voices of rural New Mexicans who know their communities best." She emphasized the state's commitment to creating a sustainable system that supports rural providers and ensures access to quality health care services for all residents.
The plan was developed with input from various stakeholders, including public and Tribal forums and a review of statewide health data. Its objectives include expanding the rural health care workforce, funding community-led programs addressing food access, transportation, behavioral health, preventative services, and facility modifications. It also aims to enhance access to care and technology for rural providers and patients, support the operational sustainability of rural health providers, and improve public data tools for navigating the health care system.
Under federal guidelines using Health Resources and Services Administration Census tract designations, every county in New Mexico includes at least one eligible rural area. Award decisions are expected by December 31, 2025. If successful, New Mexico plans to implement the grant in 2026.
For further details on the HCA Rural Health Transformation Plan, visit http://www.hca.nm.gov/rural-health-transformation-program/.
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