BERNALILLO COUNTY, N.M. —  Bernalillo County Commissioners voted Tuesday night to move forward with a plan for the future of healthcare at the county jail.

Commissioners approved a plan that positions the county as the healthcare system leader and accountable authority at the Metropolitan Detention Center. They will assume responsibility for the system starting July 1, 2027.

The county will spend around $37 million in fiscal year 2027 to start this. They will use this money to purchase equipment, develop facility infrastructure, hire and train staff and cover healthcare costs. 

“The plan ensures individuals in custody have access to quality care while maintaining transparency, fiscal responsibility and public trust,” the county stated.

Previously, the county contracted the system out. In 2023, they signed a four-year agreement with UNM Hospital. However, in July, the hospital announced it was planning to end its current contract – leading to the process that led to Tuesday’s vote.

The county will pay the remainder of UNM Hospital’s $34.5 million contract. With the new plan, they will still retain a lead contractor and use specialized subcontractors for “defined clinical, behavioral health, substance use, pharmacy, peer support and re-entry functions.”

The proposed plan passed on a 4-1 vote.