Coverage Access

Good health begins with the ability to seek out healthcare services regularly and whenever needed. Quality health insurance allows this freedom and also prevents unanticipated medical expenses from burdening families with debt. About 10% of New Mexicans go without health insurance, many due to cost and others due to ineligibility, confusion about the system, and other reasons.

 

As a state we have made strides to make health coverage more accessible in recent years. In addition to federal programs like Medicaid and discounts on Marketplace (BeWellNM) plans, the state has dedicated funding to expanded Medicaid programs, more discounts on BeWellNM, and improved affordability for employer coverage for small businesses. Additionally, we created a program allowing individuals to sign up for coverage via their taxes. Notably, New Mexico has also created a health insurance option for immigrants without access to other coverage options, and Health Action is executing the outreach contract for this program.  

 

However, issues of affordability and access still keep many New Mexicans from having quality coverage. An exciting policy initiative from the NM Together For Healthcare coalition seeks to address many of the fundamental issues in our coverage system. Medicaid Forward (HB186) expands Medicaid to all New Mexicans regardless of income level. Above the current FPL limits for Medicaid, individuals would be able to buy into Medicaid and pay into the program with limited cost-sharing capped based on income. Employers would also be able to buy into the program rather than pay for group plans. The result will be lowered costs for everyone, including the state, and a simplified system for New Mexican families.