Health Para Todos Examines Behavioral Health Challenges in New Mexico
Health Para Todos co-hosts Arturo Gonzales and Larry Martinez focused today’s conversation on New Mexico’s behavioral health system. With the New Mexico State Legislature in session, the episode examined the challenges in behavioral health services and the legislative measures aimed at addressing them.
Guests included Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, Santa Fe County Commissioner Dr. Lisa Cacari Stone, and behavioral health advocate Fred Sandoval, each providing insights on policy, service gaps, and community needs.
The episode began with an acknowledgment of sponsors before shifting to the day’s main topic: Behavioral Health Day, an annual event highlighting mental health issues across the state. The conversation covered ongoing challenges, gaps in service availability, and legislative efforts to improve access to care.
Fred Sandoval, Executive Director of the National Latino Behavioral Health Association, discussed his organization’s role in workforce training and addressing health disparities in New Mexico communities. He outlined the need for data-driven policies and improved training programs to meet the specific needs of underserved populations.
The conversation also touched on the state’s behavioral health infrastructure, which has faced setbacks since 2013, when changes in provider contracts led to service disruptions. Senator Peter Wirth addressed the legislative outlook on rebuilding the system, emphasizing the importance of long-term solutions that support stability, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Dr. Lisa Cacari Stone spoke about the connection between education, policy, and mental health workforce development. As a Santa Fe County Commissioner and educator at the University of New Mexico, she highlighted efforts to train healthcare providers and improve community-based solutions rather than relying on centralized, top-down approaches. She also referenced legislative proposals aimed at creating a more regionally responsive behavioral health system.
As the episode concluded, the discussion reinforced the need for effective, evidence-based policies tailored to New Mexico’s diverse communities. With ongoing legislative efforts and community input, the conversation around mental health services in the state remains active.
Join Dr. Arturo Gonzales and Larry Martinez, co-hosts of Health Para Todos, live from the New Mexico State Legislature as they discuss the crucial topic of behavioral health legislation in New Mexico with Senate Majority Leader Peter Wirth, Dr. Lisa Cacari Stone (UNM Professor and Santa Fe County Commissioner), and Fred Sandoval (Executive Director of the National Latino Behavioral Health Association); each providing their unique perspective on ongoing challenges and opportunities within the state's healthcare framework. With engaging dialogues and firsthand accounts, they shed light on the need for systemic changes that can improve services for New Mexico communities.
