GRANTS, N.M. – In a move to improve access to quality healthcare in rural and frontier communities across New Mexico, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has announced the final round of recipients for the Rural Health Care Delivery Fund, allocating a total of $80 million to rural healthcare organizations. Cibola County is among the areas set to benefit from this funding initiative.
The Rural Health Care Delivery Fund, established earlier this year, is an investment fund aimed at addressing the healthcare disparities faced by rural New Mexicans, like those in Cibola County. Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of this fund, saying, “The Rural Health Care Delivery Fund is making sure that no matter what part of New Mexico you call home, you have access to high-quality and affordable healthcare.”
The initial distribution of $18 million went to 11 rural healthcare organizations, and now, an additional 45 organizations have been selected to receive funding. These recipients represent a diverse range of health care services, with a focus on expanding existing services and creating new healthcare opportunities in rural areas.
Cibola County, in particular, will benefit from the funding awarded to Meridian Behavioral Health Inc., which serves Cibola, Lea, and Guadalupe Counties. This investment will help enhance behavioral health services in Cibola County, addressing the unique healthcare needs of its residents. The amount was not disclosed by press time.
Yvette Ramirez-Ammerman, CEO of the New Mexico Primary Care Association, praised the fund, saying, 'The Rural Health Care Delivery Fund is a game-changer for rural health care in our state. These funds will significantly enhance the capacity of primary care providers in rural areas, ensuring better access to quality health care for our communities.'
The awardees span various regions of New Mexico, reflecting the diverse healthcare needs across the state. The services provided by these organizations include behavioral health, primary care, dental services, emergency transportation, pediatric cardiology, obstetrics, gynecology, and more.
Kari Armijo, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Human Services Department, noted, “The Rural Health Care Delivery Fund is a significant step in improving access to quality health care for New Mexicans living in rural and frontier communities. This funding also advances our commitment to support New Mexico's health care workforce.”
Access to critical healthcare services in rural areas has been a longstanding challenge nationwide due to geographic isolation and financial constraints. Governor Lujan Grisham's commitment to bolstering rural health care infrastructure and ensuring access to essential services is expected to have a far-reaching impact on the health and well-being of New Mexicans in underserved areas.
For more information about the New Mexico Rural Health Care Delivery Fund and the full list of awardees, please visit the department's website at https://www.hsd.state.nm.us /primary-care-council/.