Virtual Panel: Bridging the gaps in access to care and health equity for all New Mexicans

A multitude of factors contribute to access to care issues New Mexicans face, including coverage, provider availability, cultural and linguistic barriers, and geography. According to a recent U.S. News report, New Mexico ranks in the bottom half with higher-than-average uninsured rates (14.6% vs. 12.9%). Another 50% of New Mexicans depend on Medicaid for health coverage. In addition, 80% of the counties in New Mexico are considered rural or frontier in nature with limited access to health care especially in specialized areas like behavioral and maternal health. New Mexico is also home to a rich diversity of culture. Cultural practices and norms around health are important considerations in the delivery of quality care. This panel explored how providers, community-based organizations, and other health care stakeholders are supporting New Mexico’s residents in improving access to care and providing flexible, scalable solutions to meet the diverse needs including those in rural parts of New Mexico.

Join our host, Carolyn Ingram, Plan President, Molina Healthcare of New Mexico and keynote speaker Senator Jerry Ortiz y Pino, to watch a robust discussion that was moderated by Richard Eeds, Program Director of Talk 1260 & 103.7 KTRC.

Our panelists included:

• Joe Anderson, PhC, Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, UNM College of Pharmacy
• Jodie Jepson, Housing Director, Heading Home 
• Antoinette Villamil, Director of Grants and Fund Development, The Sky Center