Santa Fe Standard

The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) has opened the application process for the Birthing Workforce Retention Fund. Applications will be accepted until Friday, April 18. This fund aims to support Certified Nurse-Midwives and physicians in obstetrics and family medicine who offer comprehensive perinatal care, including birthing services.

The grants provided by this fund are intended to help these healthcare providers cover their malpractice insurance premium costs. Each provider can receive up to $10,000 through this initiative, which is managed by the NMDOH Maternal Health Program.

"This financial support to offset the cost of malpractice insurance is just one way that our agency is working to address access to maternity care," stated Samuel Peinado, Chief of the NMDOH Family Health Bureau.

To qualify for a grant, applicants need to complete the Birthing Workforce Fund application available online at https://www.nmhealth.org/publication/view/form/1717/, along with a state Substitute W-9 form. The funds granted must solely be used for malpractice premiums, and applicants are required to submit documentation proving cost and payment to the Maternal Health Program.

Applications, along with supporting documents, must be submitted electronically via email or through the United States Postal Service to the NMDOH Maternal Health Program office by the close of business on April 18.

For further information regarding this press release, contact David Barre at (505) 699-9237.

A Spanish version of this press release is also available for those who require it.