New Mexico's Health Care Crisis: Who's Really to Blame?

New Mexico's health care system is in a state of emergency. It's not just about mental health anymore. The entire system is crumbling. Doctors are leaving. Hospitals are struggling. And costs are skyrocketing. The state is not poor. It has money. But it's not using it wisely. Medicaid spending is out of control. Enrollment numbers are unpredictable. And outcomes are not improving. More money is going into the system, but fewer doctors are willing to participate. The New Mexico Medical Insurance Pool is costing taxpayers over $150 million a year. Rural hospitals are at risk of closing. Even the largest health care system, Presbyterian Healthcare Services, is feeling the strain.This is not a new problem. It's been building for years. Warning signs have been ignored. Hard reforms have been avoided. And now, the system is buckling under the pressure. The current leadership must take responsibility. They cannot blame previous administrations forever. They must govern, not just grandstand. Competent reform is needed. Medicaid needs to be stabilized. A true medical licensure compact must be passed. Malpractice reform is crucial. Behavioral health needs to be rebuilt with accountability. And rural hospitals need more than just talking points. New Mexico needs leaders who are willing to admit that mismanagement, not money, is at the heart of this crisis. Health care in New Mexico does not need another villain. It needs adults in the room.