Community Matters: New Mexico's Healthcare Landscape
Fred Nathan, Think New Mexico
Wednesday, May 20, 2026
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New Mexico faces one of the most severe healthcare worker shortages in the country, and the consequences are felt deeply by local communities. In our May episode, host Christopher Goett sits down with Fred Nathan, Executive Director of Think New Mexico, to discuss what’s driving the shortage, what the research reveals about long-term solutions, and which reforms gained traction during the 2026 legislative session.
Think New Mexico is a nonpartisan, results-oriented think tank whose mission is to improve the lives of New Mexicans, especially those who lack a strong voice in the political process. Think New Mexico fulfills this mission by educating the public, the media, and policymakers about some of the most serious challenges facing New Mexico and by developing and advocating for enduring, effective, evidence based solutions.
Fred Nathan, Jr. founded Think New Mexico and is its Executive Director. Fred served as Special Counsel to New Mexico Attorney General Tom Udall from 1991-1998. In that capacity, he was the architect of several successful legislative initiatives and was in charge of New Mexico’s lawsuit against the tobacco industry, which resulted in a $1.25 billion settlement for the state. Fred has served on multiple boards and his a former trustee of his alma mater, Williams College.
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About Community Matters
Our monthly radio show invites subject experts and community leaders to talk about the challenges and inequities our region faces and possible solutions that could contribute to its growth. Hosted by Santa Fe Community Foundation staff, Community Matters airs on the third Wednesday of every month at 6:00 PM on KSFR (101.1 FM). Listen to past episodes here.
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