Udall, Heinrich Announce More Than $4 Million in Funding for New Mexico Health Centers

Funding will create jobs, help more than 16,000 new patients access health care

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall and U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich announced that 16 health centers in New Mexico will receive more than $4 million to expand primary care services by hiring an estimated 52 staff, extending operating hours, and offering new services including oral health, behavioral health, vision services, and pharmacies. The funding was made possible under the Affordable Care Act, and will help health centers reach an estimated 16,943 new patients.

"Health centers are the backbone of the health services in New Mexico, especially in our rural communities. These vital health centers provide care to 1 in 7 New Mexicans," Udall said. "This funding will go a long way in ensuring people have the quality care they deserve, especially those who may be accessing primary health care for the first time. I am proud of the work New Mexico's community health centers are doing to help residents sign up for new health insurance, serve those with no other source of care, and be a lifeline to health, vision and dental services."

"Investing in New Mexico health care centers expands our reach to provide quality services tailored to families who need it the most, including those in our rural and underserved communities," Heinrich said. "Through this grant, more than 16,000 new patients will have access to primary care that fits their health needs and reduces costs. I'm proud of the work our doctors, nurses, clinicians, and medical professionals do every day to help our communities in New Mexico stay healthy, and I will work to ensure these health grants continue to be available for our state."

The 16 health centers in New Mexico serve more than 290,000 patients. The funding will also help connect people to coverage through the health insurance exchange. Across the country, nearly 1,300 health centers provide care to more than 21.7 million patients. According to the National Association of Community Health Centers, health centers in New Mexico provide more than $69 million of economic impact and support almost 600 jobs.