That’s the share of New Mexico physicians who say they are considering leaving the state, according to a January 2026 survey by the Legislative Finance Committee. Among those weighing a move, the most commonly cited reason was punitive damages tied to medical malpractice, which are uncapped under New Mexico law. The nonpartisan committee surveyed more than 1,200 current and former physicians as lawmakers prepare for a legislative session expected to include proposals aimed at easing the state’s physician shortage, including potential changes to malpractice statutes.
