“Improving Healthcare Access via Medical Malpractice Reform”
Sandoval County Commission Meeting Room
1500 Idalia Road, Building D, Bernalillo, NM 87004
Monday, September 29, 2025 (1:00 – 4:00 pm)
I. Introductions & Opening Statements
II. Honorable Gina M. DeBlassie, Secretary, NM Department of Health
III. Medical Malpractice Laws and Impact on New Mexico’s Economy
a. Jeff Croasdell, Legal Expert, Rodey Law Firm
b. Terri Cole, President and CEO, Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
III. Perspectives from NM patients
a. Pat Jilek, Rio Rancho
b. Kathe Stark, Co-founder, Patients Primero, Las Cruces (Recorded testimony)
c. Sherman McCorkle, Co-Founder, Kirtland Partnership Committee, Albuquerque
IV. Perspectives from Medical Practitioners
a. Dr. Debbie M. Vigil, Independent physician, Obstetrics & Gynecology
b. Dr. Barbara McAneny, Medical Oncologist; Former President, American
Medical Association and New Mexico Medical Society
c. Dr. Bill Ritchie, Orthopedic Surgeon; Chair, NM Patient Compensation Fund
V. Perspectives from NM Hospitals
a. Julia Ruetten, Sr. Director Government Affairs, NM Hospital Association
b. Kaye Green, CEO, Roosevelt Co. Special Hospital District dba Roosevelt General
Hospital & Clinics
c. Dr. Darren Shafer, President, Presbyterian Medical Group
d. Dr. Michaela Granados, Internal Medicine Resident (UNMH)
VI. Potential Legislative Solutions
a. Fred Nathan, Executive Director, Think New Mexico
b. Carrie Robin Brunder, Lobbyist, New Mexico Medical Society
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Senator Craig Brandt, Chair
Senator Ant Thornton
Senator Jay Block
Senator Nicole Tobiassen
Senator Pat Woods
