The new agency plans to make it more accessible to get safety-net services and improve health care. 

SANTA FE —New Mexico marks a significant milestone by launching the New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) on July 1, a new state agency serving 51 percent of the state’s population.   

“The launch of the HCA is our promise to creating a healthier New Mexico,” said Kari Armijo, Cabinet Secretary for the New Mexico Health Care Authority. “By integrating health care and safety-net services, we aim to make it easier for New Mexicans to access the services they need when and where they need them.” 

The HCA is bringing together entities from the Human Services Department, the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division and the Division of Health Improvement from the Department of Health, the State Employee Health Benefits from the General Services Department, and the Health Care Affordability Fund team from the Office of the Superintendent of Insurance. The HCA aims to ensure that New Mexicans attain their highest level of health by providing whole-person, cost-effective, accessible, and high-quality health care and safety-net services. 

Significantly, essential services such as Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), TANF (cash assistance), LIHEAP (utility assistance), and child support will continue uninterrupted.  

The HCA will address some of the critical challenges in the state, including access to health care services in rural communities, building a more robust behavioral health system, and providing support for individuals and families experiencing poverty and food insecurity. By consolidating various services under one umbrella, the HCA aims to streamline operations, optimize safety-net services and health care purchasing, and create a unified approach to health care policy and regulation. 

“While the HCA launches on July 1, building an integrated system that meets the diverse needs of New Mexicans takes time — we strive for quality, accountability and transparency as the transformative changes we aspire to achieve take place,” added Armijo. 

HCA encourages everyone to stay informed and engaged as this transition progresses. Visit the HCA website at HCA.NM.Gov, follow updates on social media, and call 1-800-283-4465 if you have questions or need assistance.   

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