Public Health New Mexico

The country is dealing with one of the largest measles outbreaks since the respiratory virus was declared eliminated in 2000, leading to a child’s death this week in Texas — the first life lost to the disease in 10 years. In response, the New Mexico Department of Health launched a measles resource guide, including frequently asked questions, best practices and a case tracker.

A trio of health care bills passed through their first committee Friday with broad bipartisan support. They’re all aimed at expanding access to health care by making it easier for some providers to move into the state. House bills 79, 81 and 82 would add New Mexico to a growing list of states allowing providers to practice as long as they’re licensed in any other state within the compact.

A nonprofit research firm says New Mexico doesn’t have enough funding in place to properly maintain and improve the state’s transportation system. What’s more, declining and deficient infrastructure is costing New Mexicans billions of dollars.

The State Healthcare Authority is raising Medicaid reimbursement rates to providers who work with patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities to help attract and retain more of those providers.

The state announced Friday norovirus cases have been on the rise in New Mexico amid a larger national trend.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments Monday in a case to address whether or not people can be punished for living in encampments. The outcome could affect a similar case that has made it up to New Mexico’s Supreme Court.

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham announced Wednesday that she is calling a special session to pass more public safety legislation.

A new, one-of-a-kind law took effect in New Mexico two years ago that did away with behavioral health co-pays for people in certain insurance plans. A new study on the law says results so far are mixed.

A board that advises Bernalillo County programs on addiction treatment and harm reduction is looking for four new members. The 15-seat board includes medical providers and addiction specialists.

The U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case Monday that would put medical abortion out of reach for many.Providers in New Mexico who have had to adapt to a growing number of out-of-state patients are watching the case closely.