COVID and Hospitals, Public vs. Private Utilities Debate | 1.17.22

New Mexico in Focus (A Production of NMPBS)

COVID-19 cases are surging since the introduction of the new Omicron variant. Officials from UNM Hospital and Presbyterian Medical Services update the public on the impacts of Omicron on their daily operations and specifically Emergency Rooms. Our Line panelists also react to those warnings about longer wait times for minor health issues and the growing issues individuals are having when trying to get tested for the virus.

Plus, Our Line Panelists share their opinion on a study to determine the feasibility of publicly owned utility companies. Are they more accountable to their customers than private electric companies? And what does the changing composition of the Public Regulations Commission mean for energy oversight in the future?

Line Opinion Panelists:

Michael Bird, former President, American Public Health Association

Tom Garrity, Garrity Public Relations Group

Martha Burk, Political Psychologist and Author

For More Information:

Omicron’s Impact on Hospitals & Wait Times (VIDEO) - NMiF YouTube

New Mexico Hospitals Warn of Wait Times for the Less Sick - Associated Press

COVID-19 Dashboard - NMDOH

Vaccine Signup - NMDOH

NM Utility Regulators Skeptical of Study on Publicly Owned Electric Power – Santa Fe New Mexican

Group of Legislators Request Study About Creating Government-Run Electric Utilities – NM Political Report

PRC Asked by Legislators to Consider Public Utilities as Option for NM– Santa Fe New Mexican

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