Healthcare Changes: What New Mexicans Need to Know Now

New federal changes to Medicaid, BeWell (Exchange), and other programs are already taking effect and will continue through 2026 and 2027. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBA) and new federal rules will affect healthcare coverage, renewals, eligibility, costs, and access to assistance for thousands of New Mexicans. Use the resources below to understand what’s changing, find out if you may be affected, learn how to get or keep coverage, and understand your rights and protections.

If you’re not sure where to start, begin with the resources in Section 1.

You do not have to navigate these changes alone. If you need help understanding your situation or taking the next step, we can connect you with trusted support.

SECTION 1: Understand Upcoming Healthcare Changes

Summary of Federal Healthcare Changes

Overview of how federal changes to Medicaid, BeWell, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) going into effect between 2025-2028 may impact New Mexicans.

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Medicaid Work Reporting Requirements: What You Need to Know

Information about the new work reporting requirements, who needs to meet them, who is exempt, and what you need to do to keep your Medicaid coverage.

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Immigration-Related Medicaid Changes

Information for immigrant communities about Medicaid changes, lookalike coverage, Puente, and DACA bridge programs.

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SECTION 2: Get or Keep Healthcare Coverage

How to get & Keep Medicaid

Beginning October 1, 2026, many lawfully present immigrants will no longer qualify for Medicaid. The following groups will remain eligible: lawful permanent residents (green card holders), Cuban-Haitian entrants, COFA migrants, and lawfully residing children under age 21 and pregnant women. The New Mexico Health Care Authority is developing a state-funded coverage program to help prevent gaps in coverage for people with humanitarian statuses who lose Medicaid eligibility, including refugees, asylees, and survivors of domestic violence or trafficking.

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Meeting Work Reporting Requirements: Community Service Options

coming soon!

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How to Get & Keep Coverage Through BeWell

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Emergency Medicaid (EMSNC): What You Need to Know

EMSNC or Emergency Medical Services for Non-Citizens (formerly called EMSA) is for immigrants who cannot get Medicaid due to their immigration status. EMSNC pays for emergency medical services, including labor and delivery. You must submit your application within 90 days after getting services!

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SECTION 3: Understand Your Rights & Protections

Medical Debt Protection & Attestation Form

Hospitals, urgent cares, and other clinics must check if patients qualify for programs that help with medical costs and help them sign up. This includes programs like Medicaid, indigent care, and financial assistance. Indigent care programs, like UNM Care, cannot deny assistance based on immigration status.

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When Immigration Information Is Required/Not Required

Hospitals, urgent cares, and other clinics must check if patients qualify for programs that help with medical costs and help them sign up. This includes programs like Medicaid, indigent care, and financial assistance. Indigent care programs, like UNM Care, cannot deny assistance based on immigration status.

English / Spanish / Arabic / Dari / Japanese / Korean / Simplified Chinese / Traditional Chinese / Tagalog / Vietnamese

Immigration Status Healthcare Options Reference Chart

coming soon!

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Public Charge Information

coming soon!

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