Rural Health Care Protections Head to Governor's Desk
Santa Fe, N.M. - At-risk healthcare clinics across the state will now be able to keep their doors open beyond January 1, thanks to necessary changes passed by the New Mexico House of Representatives today. By voice vote the House concurred with amendments to House Bill 11 made in the Senate, now advancing the bill to the Governor for signature into law.
Sponsored by Representative Dayan Hochman-Vigil (D-Albuquerque) and Representative Doreen Gallegos (D-Las Cruces), House Bill 11 makes necessary changes to the Medical Malpractice Act, which was passed in the last legislative session. HB 11 clarifies language in the original bill to ensure that independent providers can continue providing the care New Mexicans deserve, and reflects an agreement between doctors, patients, insurance companies, and hospitals.
“House Bill 11 is about protecting rural health care, supporting our medical providers, and protecting patients across New Mexico by ensuring that they can receive the healthcare they deserve,” said Rep. Hochman-Vigil. “It was incredibly heartening to see both sides of the aisle come together to protect healthcare for New Mexicans in rural areas and all across our great state.”
Specifically, HB 11 clarifies that independent health care providers are not considered agents of a hospital. Without this legislation, many independent providers would be unable to maintain their insurance policies, possibly forcing clinics to shut their doors and leaving New Mexicans without the health care they deserve. House Bill 11 also applies a $750,000 cap on damages sought through the Medical Malpractice Act for outpatient health care facilities from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2024.
Passed with an emergency clause, the bill will go into effect immediately upon the Governor’s signature.
The Roundhouse is open to the public for this special session, and proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Virtual public participation will also be available. Members of the public can view floor sessions and committee meetings on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.
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