Epidemiologist Alejandro Macías, also known as the Influenza Czar, emphasized the poor state of the Mexican health system in a recent social media post. He highlighted the absence of a primary health system and the tendency for people to seek care in private pharmacies. Macías called on Mexico’s health authorities to recognize the problem professionally and address it with greater investment in health. In addition, he suggested that improvement must begin with the development of a strong primary system that includes vaccination services and improved service in public hospitals.
Macías’ message, posted on June 7, 2024, reflects his concern about the effectiveness of the health system in Mexico. This issue has also been a concern for President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, who has promised to leave a health system among the best in the world before the end of his term.
However, according to Macías, Mexico falls short of having a good primary health system, as evidenced by data from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2023. A graph shared by Macías from the latest OECD report shows Mexico at the bottom of the effectiveness of health systems in comparison to other countries.
This information from the OECD contradicts statements made by President López Obrador, who has detailed alleged improvements in well-equipped health centers and hospitals, as well as increased availability of medications and free medical care. He has also recently inaugurated the Megapharmacy of Wellbeing in Huehuetoca, promising a complete supply of medicines in Mexico.
It remains to be seen whether these promises will translate into tangible results within the remaining nine months of President López Obrador’s administration. The contrast between his optimistic vision and Macías’ critical assessment reflects the divergence of opinions regarding the effectiveness and progress of the health sector in the country.