FARMINGTON — The New Mexico Department of Health is hosting meetings Wednesday and Thursday to collect local input on the state's strategic health plan.

The Thursday meeting is targeted more toward American Indian issues and concerns, but all members of the public are invited to attend either meeting, Health Department spokeswoman Deborah Busemeyer said.

The 2008 New Mexico Comprehensive Strategic Health Plan covers a four-year period, is renewed every two years and covers the entire state.

Previous input meetings were in Portales and Las Vegas. Four meetings follow the upcoming sessions in Farmington.

The plan lists priorities and goals for state and local governments, health care providers, businesses, schools and individuals.

Its priorities include health care disparities, workforce issues, immunizations, prevention of teenage pregnancy and suicide, emergency and long-term care systems, health care coverage and access, behavioral health, oral and environmental health, and healthier weight.

"This is the

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public's opportunity to tell us what you think is important in our work toward improving your health, your community's health and the health care system," said New Mexico Department of Health Secretary Dr. Alfredo Vigil.

David Quintana, an epidemiologist with the department, attended both previous meetings. Rising to the top of the list of concerns among Portales and Las Vegas residents were behavioral health issues — particularly suicide and suicide prevention.

"What's coming back is that's the biggest topic," he said.

Data compiled from the Portales meeting, which drew 44 participants, noted people cast 16 votes favoring access training and other resources offered to consumers and their families to increase their own advocacy and leadership with the community and statewide.

Seven people voted to expand mentoring programs and take part in behavioral health-related focus groups. Four people voted to promote "anti-stigma" programs to be available for and within families.

Portales residents supported higher pay for behavioral health workers and the reduction of barriers to mental health systems.

Attendance at the Las Vegas meeting was about half that of Portales, with 20 participants taking part.

Regarding youth suicide prevention, speakers said changes in the state's Children's Code no longer allows "any child" to receive confidential services.

The northern New Mexico community is concerned that substance abuse and homelessness are worsening. They had numerous concerns about violence directed at elders, especially elders with dementia.

Also of concern was the lack of understanding about post-suicide programs to be used preventatively, such as follow-up after a suicide and memory triggers about the suicide.

Speakers said they need access for all children, elders and families living with an elder with dementia. The situation has an effect on kids in families that include elders with dementia.

To register or get more information call Margo Gomez at (505) 827-1052.

Cornelia de Bruin: cdebruin@daily-times.com