New Mexico Invites Texas Doctors Affected by Abortion Ban

In a strategic move to bolster healthcare access, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has initiated a $400,000 campaign titled “Free to Provide,” aimed at recruiting physicians from Texas, where strict abortion laws have prompted many to reconsider their practice locations. The campaign seeks to address the growing demand for abortion services in New Mexico, as patients from neighboring states increasingly seek care due to restrictive policies. Dr. R. Todd Ivey, an OBGYN in Houston, expressed concern over the exodus of medical professionals from Texas, noting that several colleagues have opted to retire or relocate due to the state's stringent abortion regulations. Ivey advocates for his peers to remain in Texas and work towards policy reform, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to deliver evidence-based care without the threat of legal repercussions. The New Mexico health department reports that approximately 116 health centers and hospitals have listed job openings on the campaign's website, indicating a significant demand for healthcare providers. Texas Democratic state Rep. Vikki Goodwin, who opposed the state's abortion ban, highlighted the potential loss of skilled OBGYNs to states with more favorable practice environments, urging state leaders to recognize the implications of their policies on healthcare availability. Dr. Kimberly Pilkinton, president of the Texas Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, lamented the recruitment efforts by New Mexico, calling for a supportive environment in all states that prioritizes patient care over political interference. Ivey and his colleagues continue to advocate for changes in Texas abortion policy, stressing the importance of accessible healthcare for women in the state.