**National Health Plan Unveiled, Includes Online Medical Records; Sheinbaum Receives Influenza Vaccine**
On November 5, 2024, the federal government introduced the National Health Plan aimed at improving public health through disease prevention, enhancing healthcare quality, and ensuring medical access for the uninsured. Emphasizing the importance of primary healthcare, the plan focuses on prevention rather than treating diseases in their late stages, as highlighted by David Kershenobich Stalnikowitz, head of the Federal Health Ministry.
During a morning press briefing at the National Palace, Eduardo Clark García Dobarganes, Undersecretary of Integration and Development at the Federal Health Ministry, outlined the plan’s five key pillars. The first focuses on health promotion, disease prevention, and lifelong vaccination, targeting reductions in childhood obesity and undiagnosed chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
The second pillar seeks to enhance the quality of medical care and reduce wait times by maximizing the operational capacity of clinics and hospitals 24/7. As García Dobarganes stated, this involves full utilization of existing staff and infrastructure.
The third pillar involves strengthening the IMSS Bienestar program, ensuring no Mexican is left without free public healthcare. The fourth involves equipping clinics and hospitals with necessary medications and supplies, while the fifth modernizes health systems to allow universal access across public health facilities.
Alejandro Svarch Pérez, director of IMSS-Bienestar, presented the “Médicas y médicos del Bienestar” program to build the world’s largest public health service network. This initiative aims for 24/7 healthcare delivery through surgical teams in 282 hospitals in remote or vulnerable areas, offering substantial financial incentives and benefits to participating medical professionals.
Zoé Alejandro Robledo Aburto, director general of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), shared that the system now hosts 53.7 million electronic medical records, the world’s second-largest database. The new healthcare model includes modernized medication procurement and distribution, electronic prescriptions, extensive hospital equipment programs, and the creation of “Farmacias del Bienestar.”
Additionally, technology infrastructure improvements are underway, including universal electronic medical records accessible across major institutes, mobile consultations, digital appointment scheduling, and the introduction of a National Health System ID for all citizens.
Martí Batres Guadarrama, director general of the Institute of Security and Social Services for State Workers (ISSSTE), revealed plans to level ISSSTE salaries with IMSS and expand the medical workforce.
Following the plan’s announcement, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo received an influenza shot, joining a vaccination campaign targeting young children, seniors, and those with chronic conditions.
**Additional Developments on Healthcare Initiatives**
In recent updates, the ongoing overhaul of Mexico’s healthcare system has seen positive responses from various international health organizations. The emphasis on integrating digital health solutions is anticipated to significantly enhance efficiency and accessibility nationwide. The government’s approach to public health is increasingly seen as a model for other countries striving to balance healthcare excellence with accessibility for all citizens.
For more details on these initiatives and ongoing healthcare reforms, people are encouraged to stay informed through official health ministry channels and public health announcements.