More providers, but worse outcomes: N.M.'s behavioral health system still struggling, analyst says

by: Gabrielle Porter

Nov. 18—New Mexico has gained more behavioral health providers in recent years, thanks especially to swelling ranks of nurse practitioners.

But for all that progress, a state analyst told lawmakers Monday, New Mexico is seeing worse outcomes in a few key areas, dropping the state to at or near the bottom in nationwide mental health and substance use rankings, for both children and adults.

While gobs of money have gone toward improving the situation, the agencies spending that money aren't coordinating well.

"There is little planning to strategically use the resources that we have more effectively," said Eric Chenier, the Legislative Finance Committee's analyst for the New Mexico Health Care Authority. "When there is planning, it's spotty."

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