The University of New Mexico’s Board of Regents has given the green light to a new reproductive health clinic, allowing the group behind the project to purchase land for construction. Last year, the state approved $10 million for a reproductive health center in Doña Ana County, and since then, UNM, Planned Parenthood, Bold Futures New Mexico, and Strong Families New Mexico have been working together with local advocacy organizations to develop a plan for the center.
Heather Smith from Bold Futures highlighted the importance of this clinic in addressing the lack of reproductive services in Southern New Mexico. Many community members have had to travel long distances to receive necessary services such as gynecological care, contraception, gender affirming care, miscarriage management, abortion and preventative care. The 8,000-square-foot clinic will be located at the Lohman Medical Park campus in Las Cruces and will be operated by UNM Medical Group.
Charlene Bencomo, executive director of Bold Futures, expressed confidence that despite some challenges in coordinating between different organizations, this development will ultimately improve healthcare options for patients in Southern New Mexico. The land acquisition was approved with a 6 to 1 vote and will be funded through the state appropriation for the project. Moving forward, the group plans to finalize the land deal
