**Access Restored to Pemex Facility in Rosarito; Employees to Receive Medical Care at SIMNSA Hospital**
In Rosarito, access has been restored to the Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) facility after two thousand workers and their families organized a protest demanding medical care. The demonstration had blocked fuel transport trucks since 7 a.m. on February 17, until discussions with federal authorities began at midday on February 18. Following a two and a half hour meeting, Pemex officials presented documentation confirming contracts with SIMNSA Hospital in Tijuana, where medical care across a range of specialties will be assured.
José Antonio Sotomayor, a Pemex union member, explained, “We’re waiting for system updates to review medical histories. They claimed it was in place since February 14, but this wasn’t properly communicated. Nevertheless, they’ve provided us with the contracts, and the company requested two days for training to schedule appointments.”
Under the agreement, SIMNSA will start booking appointments by the last week of February, as training to handle Pemex’s health system is still ongoing. Urgent care visits and medication requests are available immediately.
Pemex plans to set up a local consultation office for employees unable to travel to the border area, integrating SIMNSA’s system.
Previously, Pemex workers received healthcare at Bona Nova Hospital in Playas de Rosarito. The new arrangement aims to serve 2,000 unionized workers, their families, trustworkers, and military personnel through SIMNSA’s healthcare services.
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**Secondary Article: Government and Union Seek Long-Term Solutions Amid Pemex Workers’ Health Care Concerns**
In light of recent health care access protests by Pemex employees, government authorities and union representatives are exploring more sustainable health care solutions for the workforce. This comes after workers expressed concerns over inconsistencies and delays in medical services.
Officials confirmed intentions to develop a long-term strategy addressing the needs of Pemex employees, ensuring consistent and quality medical care. Discussions include potential partnerships with additional health facilities to diversify options for workers, reducing strain on existing services.
Union leaders are also advocating for regular audits of contracted hospitals to ensure compliance with service level agreements, aiming to prevent disruptions and grievances similar to those seen in Rosarito. The overall goal is to enhance the health benefits package for employees, promoting wellbeing and support within the workforce.