LGBTQ Resources
1. Transgender Resource Center of New Mexico (TGRCNM)
TGRCNM provides support, education, and advocacy for transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming communities. Services include support groups, assistance with name and gender marker changes, and a provider directory of trans-friendly healthcare and service providers. Please note their new address as of January 13, 2025:
- Address: 1515 4th St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- Phone: (505) 200-9086
- Email: tgrcnm@tgrcnm.org
- Website:
2. University of New Mexico LGBTQ Resource Center
The center offers services to UNM students, faculty, and staff of all gender identities and sexual orientations, including support, advocacy, education, and safety resources.
- Address: 1919 Las Lomas NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
- Phone: (505) 277-5428
- Website:
3. PFLAG Albuquerque
PFLAG is a national organization that promotes the health and well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals, their families, and friends through support, education, and advocacy. The Albuquerque chapter meets monthly.
- Meeting Location: First Congregational Church, 2801 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
- Meeting Time: Third Tuesday of every month, 7:00–9:30 pm
- Website:
4. Equality New Mexico (EQNM)
EQNM is a statewide education and advocacy organization working for full recognition of LGBTQ civil rights.
- Address: 625 Silver Ave. SW, Ste. 310, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- Phone: (505) 224-2766
- Website:
5. Casa Q
Casa Q provides safe living options and services for young LGBTQ individuals at risk of or experiencing homelessness.
- Website:
6. Common Bond New Mexico Foundation
Common Bond serves the LGBTQ community by providing information and acting as a "virtual community center."
- Address: P.O. Box 26836, Albuquerque, NM 87125
- Phone: (505) 891-3647
- Website:
7. UNM Truman Health Services
Offers comprehensive health services, including specialized care for transgender individuals.
- Address: 801 Encino Pl NE Building F, Albuquerque, NM 87102
- Phone: (505) 272-1312
- Website:
______________Gender-Affirming Care Coverage in New Mexico________________________
1. Medicaid Coverage through Turquoise Care
In New Mexico, Medicaid, known as Turquoise Care, provides coverage for gender-affirming surgeries for individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM), as a Medicaid Managed Care Organization under Turquoise Care, adheres to these guidelines.
2. BCBSNM Gender-Affirming Procedures
BCBSNM's medical policy considers various gender-affirming procedures as medically necessary for treating gender dysphoria. These may include:
- Breast Modification:
- Breast enlargement or augmentation.
- Mastopexy, implant insertion, and nipple/areola reconstruction.
- Facial Reconstruction:
- Procedures such as blepharoplasty, brow lift, cheek and chin implants, rhinoplasty, and facial bone reconstruction.
- Body Contouring:
- Abdominoplasty, liposuction, and pectoral implants.
- Permanent Hair Removal:
- Electrolysis or hairplasty.
- Voice Therapy and Surgery:
- Interventions aimed at voice modification.
Important Note:
- All services require prior authorization to confirm medical necessity and coverage.
3. Trans Health Project
New Mexico has enacted House Bill 7, the Reproductive and Gender-Affirming Health Care Act, which strengthens the state's commitment to providing access to gender-affirming health care services.
4. Next Steps for Medicaid Patients
If a patient is enrolled in Medicaid through BCBSNM:
- Coverage for gender-affirming surgeries is available, provided the procedures are deemed medically necessary and prior authorizations are obtained.
- It is recommended to consult directly with BCBSNM to:
- Verify specific coverage details.
- Ensure all necessary steps are taken for proper authorization.
For further details, patients and providers can contact:
- BCBSNM: Visit their website or call customer service.
- Office of the Governor: New Mexico Office of the Governor.
By staying informed and working with providers, patients can access the care they need in accordance with New Mexico’s progressive healthcare policies.