LeAnn Behrens

The Medical Countermeasure Distribution and Dispensing (MCMDD) Plan by the New Mexico Department of Health outlines a strategy for the rapid, coordinated deployment of personnel and resources for medical countermeasure distribution and dispensing during public health emergencies. It details systems for medical materiel management and dispensing operations, provides guidance to state agencies, and integrates federal resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The plan aims to supplement local capabilities, enhance public health response, and prepare for critical incidents, including large-scale bioterrorist attacks, by aligning with national emergency response frameworks.

The meeting centered on establishing key priorities concerning equity, access, and cultural considerations for patients, facilitators, and cultivators within the psilocybin program. Key discussion points included robust tribal engagement, addressing disparities in rural and urban access, exploring telehealth options, and evaluating costs associated with patient and facilitator training. The committee also addressed the intersection with other related committees. Public comments raised concerns regarding potential corporate takeovers, advocating for residency preferences and sunset clauses to protect local businesses, and emphasized the need for affordable access, particularly for low-income and Medicaid populations. Other topics included defining goals, advocating for the Patient Equity Fund during the legislative session, and exploring culturally sensitive therapy models that integrate indigenous knowledge systems. There was discussion on reducing diagnostic gatekeeping barriers and clarifying statutory boundaries for the Equity Fund.

The meeting served as both an orientation and the first formal meeting of the Research and Continuous Improvement (RACI) Committee, called to order by the Chair. Key discussions focused on committee norms, including voting requirements restricted to New Mexico residents and conflict of interest disclosures. Recommendations for research must be sent via email, with posting on the website expected within 5 to 10 business days, potentially longer due to the legislative session. Topics for future meetings included outcomes monitoring, reporting, emergency preparedness, and community education. During public comment, members raised questions regarding the tracking of Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPDD) and the utilization of participant experiences and data. The next tentative meeting date was scheduled for March 6, 2026.

The meeting agenda included introductions from Committee Members, a presentation by Emily Kaltenbach, Chair of the Cannabis Regulatory Advisory Committee (C-RAC), and an update from the Medical Cannabis Program. Further discussions involved a presentation by Hayley Peterson from the NMDOH Epidemiology and Response Division regarding the "Public Health Surveillance of Adult Use Cannabis," a presentation by Michael Sofis, CPPC, on a Research Project, and a general discussion of Research and Resources. The meeting concluded with addressing Other Items from Committee Members and scheduling the next meeting.

This document outlines a proposed framework for education and training in psilocybin-assisted mental health care, emphasizing the creation of safe, ethical, and culturally respectful practices. The framework is divided into two parts: Foundational Education, covering shared baseline knowledge for all roles, and Skills-Based Training, focusing on role-specific competencies and supervised practice. It is designed for a diverse group of participants including mental health clinicians, Indigenous healers, medical providers, and spiritual care providers, guided by core principles such as safety, ethics, equity, cultural humility, and trauma-informed care. The initiative aims to align with NMDOH advisory norms and public health standards, supporting public understanding, safety, and informed participation.