Multiple state agencies involved in wellness checks
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) reports progress in completing health and safety wellness checks for clients receiving services from the states’ Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver programs.
As of 12 p.m. on Friday, April 7, 4,654 in-person wellness visits have been completed statewide for the 6,815 individuals receiving services from Developmental Disabilities Waiver programs. These visits identified 68 sites with possible concerns. Every one of these incidents is being fully investigated.
Of those 68 sites:
- 42 sites resulted in reported allegations of potential abuse, neglect and exploitation.
- 26 sites had concerns that primarily revolved around home repairs, damages or other environmental concerns.
In addition, both the Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) and DOH have employees from their agencies outside of the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division staff in the field to complete the home visits, including DOH’s Office of General Counsel and Division of Health Improvement. Representatives from the state Children, Youth and Families Department, Human Services Department, Office of Peer Recovery and Engagement, and the Corrections Department are assisting with field visits.
Anyone found to be in an abusive situation or who is in danger of immediate harm will be removed. Individuals associated with cases where abuse has been substantiated will be referred to the Employee Abuse Registry. Licensed professionals will be referred to their respective boards, and referrals to law enforcement will also be made as appropriate.
Anyone suspecting abuse, neglect, or exploitation of any person who is on one of the state’s Developmental Disabilities Waiver Programs, or anyone else, please call the Adult Protective Services Central Intake Unit toll-free at: 1-866-654-3219.