Gina Fullbright, a registered nurse with the New Mexico Department of Health’s Public Health Division in the Southwest Region, received a Nursing Excellence Award at the New Mexico Center for Nursing Excellence annual ceremony on April 11. Fullbright was recognized for her efforts to expand access to HIV prevention medication through the HIV-PrEP program, which offers preventative treatment to patients at risk for HIV infection.
The recognition highlights ongoing efforts within the state to improve public health outcomes and address critical healthcare needs. The award specifically acknowledges Fullbright’s work in making preventive care more accessible in southern New Mexico.
Gina DeBlassie, cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Department of Health, said, “Nurses are lifesavers, and the New Mexico Department of Health is proud of all our nurses’ contributions to our agency and the larger community: the state of New Mexico. This award recognizes that work.”
Heather Black, chief nurse for NMDOH’s Public Health Division, said, “All five of our amazing nominees deserve recognition for their dedication and hard work to make New Mexico the healthiest state.”
Fullbright began her career with NMDOH at the Roswell public health office and has spent most of her tenure at the Las Cruces public health office. She holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. Four other nurses from NMDOH were also nominated for this year’s award: Tina Bunton, Dolores Coronado, Rosie Hudson and Michelle Ramirez.
The department encourages anyone seeking more information about this recognition or related programs to contact David Barre at (505) 699-9237.
