Mexico's Mixed Health System

The Mexican health system has a long history of being divided into different groups. Formal workers have social insurance, while the general population relies on public health actions. This study looked at health reforms in Mexico from 2000 to 2024. We found that different groups and governments have influenced the reforms over the years.

From 2003 to 2018, the government introduced a popular health insurance plan for informal workers and the poor. This increased coverage, but it also made the system more divided. The plan only offered limited services, which made it hard for people to get the care they needed.

In 2018, the government changed its approach. They abolished the popular insurance plan and started working on reforms that would bring the system together. They wanted to make it easier for people to get the care they need, no matter where they live or who they are.

Despite these efforts, the system is still facing many challenges. There's not enough public funding, and the infrastructure and health workforce in some states are struggling. Some states and social security institutions are resisting the changes, and there's a lack of regulation for private services. This is making it hard for people to get the care they need, especially in rural areas.