MEXICO

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has approved the creation of the National Institute of Health for Welfare (INSABI for its acronym in Spanish) and a new health model focused on primary health care, to be created in Mexico. During a working meeting held on July 22 between Health Secretary Jorge Alcocer Varela, and PAHO director Carissa Etienne, the former explained that they would create a group to work on the design of a cooperation strategy with PAHO. The idea is for the strategy to be approved during the 73rd World Health Assembly scheduled for May 2020.  

During the meeting, Alcocer Varela spoke about expanding people’s right to health by modifying the health system to strengthen Primary Health Care (PHC) for the population without social security, by creating the National Institute of Health for Welfare. This entity will be responsible for the delivery and distribution of medicines throughout the country. The Secretary also emphasized the current administration’s commitment  to continue promoting this agenda at a multilateral level.

Etienne pointed out that Mexico’s vision is aligned with PAHO’s objectives to not leave anyone behind in medical care. “The strategy to prioritize those with the greatest need is the right way forward to ensure their well-being and productivity,” she said.