Access to specialty doctors is crucial for me, my family, and my community. Unfortunately, the escalating costs of medical malpractice insurance, fueled by unchecked punitive damages in malpractice lawsuits, are severely hampering our ability to attract and retain top-notch healthcare providers. In New Mexico, this is not just an inconvenience; it’s a crisis. Our community requires immediate and reliable access to healthcare, yet the current situation poses a substantial threat to this necessity.

The Governor of New Mexico holds the power to initiate change by calling a special legislative session to address this pressing issue. It's time to reform malpractice laws and introduce caps on punitive damages, aligning them with best practices seen across other states. By implementing these reforms, we can create a more sustainable environment for healthcare professionals, ensuring they can continue to provide essential services to our residents.

Statistics highlight the gravity of the situation: the American Medical Association reports that the high costs of malpractice insurance are directly linked to broad punitive damage awards. The National Institute of Medicine notes that states with malpractice reform, including caps on damages, experience a marked increase in the number of practicing physicians.

This is not just about protecting healthcare providers but about safeguarding the health of New Mexicans. Families like mine deserve access to specialists who can provide timely and effective care. Every day without reform exacerbates the problem, leaving countless individuals at risk.

I urge Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to take decisive action by convening a special session focused on malpractice law reform. New Mexico’s healthcare system, the well-being of its providers, and the health of all New Mexicans depend on it. Please support this cause and add your name to the petition.