This bill introduces new legal provisions regarding the collection of medical malpractice judgments against independent healthcare providers in New Mexico. Specifically, it prohibits plaintiffs from pursuing or collecting judgments from the personal income or assets of independent providers unless the court determines that the provider did not maintain the necessary qualifications under the Medical Malpractice Act or lacked sufficient insurance coverage. The bill defines "independent provider" as various licensed healthcare professionals who are not employed by hospitals or outpatient facilities.

Additionally, the bill allows courts to reduce or nullify damage awards if a plaintiff is found to have made irrelevant allegations, allegations intended to coerce a settlement, or allegations that rely on the independent provider's personal income or assets. The provisions of this act will apply to all medical malpractice claims filed on or after its effective date.