ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - One of the state’s largest health care providers is partnering with the University of New Mexico’s nursing college to expand access to health care in rural communities by creating a new residency program.

The program will be paid for by a $3.2 million grant awarded to Presbyterian Healthcare Services by the federal Health Resources and Services Administration.

The program will focus on providing care in medically underserved areas.

The clinics that will be part of the residency are in Capitan, Carrizozo, Corona, Ruidoso, southwest Albuquerque, Socorro, Belen, Los Lunas and Tucumcari.

Officials say all but one of the communities served through the grant also have higher than average poverty rates.

The priorities for the residents who will participate in the program include combating the opioid crisis and addressing mental health issues.

Sign up for Daily Newsletters Manage Newsletters

Copyright © 2020 The Washington Times, LLC.