NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Relates to HB165, HB38, HB197

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

NM Health Policy Commission

Department of Health

Human Services Department

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

HJM13 requests the primary care bureau of the Department of Health (DOH) to establish a task force to develop operational aspects of a critical access community health care provider designation. The task force would consider criteria including eligibility, designation of primary care providers as critical access community health care providers, indigent care reimbursement and other funding mechanisms, recruitment and retention initiatives, and special consideration for contractors providing services in rural areas.

Significant Issues

The Department of Health indicates HJM13 may be better directed to the Health Policy Commission.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

HJM13 relates to HB165 which establishes an essential community provider fund to improve funding for health care in rural and underserved areas; and HB38 and HB197 which address needs pursuant to the Rural Primary Health Care Act.

TECHNICAL ISSUES

The Health Policy Commission suggests developing more community health centers to meet needs throughout the state, expand dental services, and provide medically indicated specialty services such as OB/GYN, through community health centers.

RAE/gm