What is the right to health?
The right to health is a basic human right recognized by New Mexico’s human rights law. This right includes access to health services, which means the right to obtain medical care and health-related services (including mental health services) without discrimination. It also includes the right to access safe and nutritious food, clean water, and adequate sanitation. Any health services and programs that are provided need to be of a high quality and affordable for everyone. New Mexico acknowledges that health is a human right especially for those who are most vulnerable due to race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or economic status. This means that access to health care should never be subject to discrimination. New Mexico also recognizes the right to access necessary medical services for people with disabilities, no matter the cost. In addition, every person in New Mexico has the right to informed consent when it comes to health care decisions. This includes the right to access information about treatments, to be informed of side effects, and to make autonomous decisions about what treatments to use or to refuse. Lastly, the right to health means that health care services in New Mexico must be provided in a non-discriminatory and respectful way, with dignity and confidentiality. The health care system must be committed to protecting and promoting the health and well-being of all people living in the state.
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