Fact:
Training more physicians is important, but retention is the real challenge.
According to the UNM School of Medicine Location Report (2024):
- Only ~52% of physicians who complete both medical school and residency at UNM stay in New Mexico.
National data (AAMC) shows:
- Only 55–57% of physicians remain in the state where they trained.
Why they leave:
- Liability concerns
- High premiums
- Burnout
- Unstable practice conditions
- Better support/compensation in neighboring states
We cannot recruit or retain physicians without addressing the liability environment that drives many of them out.
Sources:
- University of New Mexico School of Medicine. (2024). Location Report: Practice Outcomes of UNM-Trained Physicians. UNM HSC.
- Association of American Medical Colleges. (2022). Physician Retention in Residency State Report. AAMC Research.
- New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee. (2023). Health Care Workforce Pipeline Report.