Mexico health coverage gap increases to 43 percent

The percentage of the Mexican population without health insurance or knowledge of where to seek medical care has risen to approximately 43 percent, according to Gabriela Luna Ruiz, a researcher at the Universidad Iberoamericana (IBERO).

This figure represents a significant increase from the 21 percent recorded during the operation of the Seguro Popular program. Following the disappearance of that scheme, the lack of coverage and access has intensified.

Approximately half of all healthcare spending in Mexico is currently paid directly out of pocket by families. This financial burden covers consultations, medications, and medical studies, which can lead to catastrophic expenses that compromise family assets, particularly for those without formal employment benefits.

Luna Ruiz also noted that the Mexican government allocates less than 3 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to the health sector, highlighting ongoing challenges in public financing and timely access to care.