ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico — Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico has been recognized as a 2026 Payor Champion by the National Association of Mobile Integrated Health Care Providers. The award honors BCBSNM’s leadership and innovation in advancing mobile integrated health care and community paramedicine across New Mexico.
Selected among leading payors nationwide, BCBSNM was recognized for its commitment to transforming care delivery through the development and sustainment of mobile integrated health care programs in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Los Lunas and Silver City. This program, launched in collaboration with the Albuquerque Ambulance Mobile Integrated Health Department, American Medical Response and Gila Regional Emergency Medical Services, represents a pioneering model for how health plans can actively reshape health care delivery by embedding innovative care directly into local systems.
BCBSNM integrated this model into the fabric of care for its members. Through aligned reimbursement, clinical workflows and operational collaboration, BCBSNM enabled paramedics to operate as proactive clinical extenders in the home, engaging patients with complex medical and social needs earlier and supporting them through care transitions. The program has demonstrated significant reductions in avoidable emergency department visits and hospital readmissions, while improving patient engagement and continuity of care.
Julian Duran, manager of clinical operations at BCBSNM, worked with clinical teams to support data sharing and program refinement with a focus on meaningful outcomes. The hands-on approach created an environment where innovation could mature into a durable, effective component of the health care system.
“At a time when health plans are exploring ways to address rising costs and fragmented care, BCBSNM has provided a practical example of what alignment and integration can achieve,” said Larry Johnson, commander of Mobile Integrated Health at Albuquerque Ambulance Service. “Our collaboration illustrates that meaningful transformation comes from embedding new models into existing systems with intention and accountability.”
NAMIHP’s Payor Champion Awards celebrate organizations that demonstrate exceptional support for mobile integrated health care and community paramedicine care models and deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in the community. Learn more about BCBSNM’s Community Paramedicine program.
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About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico is one of the largest commercial health insurers in New Mexico with approximately 700,000 New Mexicans carrying a Blue Cross and Blue Shield card. Since 1940, BCBSNM has been committed to promoting the health and wellness of its members and communities through accessible, cost-effective, quality health care. BCBSNM is a Division of Health Care Service Corporation, the country’s largest customer-owned health insurer and fourth largest health insurer overall. Health Care Service Corporation is a Mutual Legal Reserve Company and an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.