Inspection of Public Records Act
The Inspection of Public Records Act (IPRA) ) provides the public with access to information about governmental affairs. The law requires public access to virtually all public records with a few exceptions most records are available for public inspection.
Notice of Right to Inspect Public Records
By law, under the Inspection of Public Records Act, every person has the right to inspect public records of the New Mexico Department of Health. The Act also makes compliance with requests to inspect public records an integral part of the routine duties of the officers and employees of the New Mexico Department of Health.
Procedure for Requesting Inspection: Requests to inspect public records should be submitted to the Chief Records Custodian, through the following link:
Click Here To Submit a Public Records Request through the GovQA Public PortalA person desiring to inspect public records may submit a request to the chief records custodian orally or in writing. However, the procedures and penalties prescribed by the Act apply only to written requests. A written request must contain the name, address, and telephone number of the person making the request. The request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable the chief records custodian to identify and locate the requested records. Requests for reasons or justification on why certain actions were taken by the Department of Health are not proper requests under this law.
The Act allows agencies to charge a reasonable fee for copies of public records. The New Mexico Department of Health charges a fee of $0.25 per page for copying and charges the actual cost for a CD or jump drive for electronic copies that cannot be emailed.
General Inquiries
For general inquiries that do not include a request for public records, please contact us at our 505-827-2613 number.
Hard Copy Requests
If you do not have access to the electronic records portal, you may also use the Inspection of Public Records Request Form and and mail or fax the completed form to
Chief Records Custodian
New Mexico Department of Health
PO Box 26110, Santa Fe, NM 87502
Phone: 505-827-2997 Fax: 505-827-2930
Telephone Requests
Alternately you can also make requests verbally over the telephone by calling the Chief Records Custodian directly at 505-827-2997 during normal business hours. Please be ready to provide all information outlined on the Inspection of Public Records Request Form when you call.
Learn More
Please inspect the comprehensive Inspection of Public Records Compliance Guide publication if you have any questions regarding IPRA requirements or its application.