The State of Digital Health in Mexico (EN)

Summary of contents

This report we made in 2023 offers a comprehensive analysis of Mexico’s digital health landscape, organised around several key content areas:

1. Universal Health Coverage and Health System Overview

Examines Mexico’s commitment to UHC, comparing its Effective Coverage Index with other countries.
Describes the dual structure of the health system (public vs. private) and recent reforms (e.g. the transition from Seguro Popular to INSABI/IMSS-OPD) aimed at reducing fragmentation and expanding coverage.

2. Legislative and Regulatory Framework

Reviews updates to the General Health Law and constitutional reforms that promote the integration of ICT in healthcare.
Discusses current and pending legislative initiatives (electronic prescriptions, telemedicine, AI regulation) designed to ensure ethical, safe, and interoperable digital health services.

3. Digital Connectivity and Infrastructure

Analyses internet access in the health sector, highlighting disparities between urban and rural areas.
Assesses the quality of connectivity in hospitals and health centres, noting both achievements and gaps in infrastructure.

4. Adoption of Digital Health Technologies

Details the penetration of telemedicine and digital tools among health professionals, including the use of electronic health records and mobile applications.
Evaluates how digital health services are being implemented across different settings, and the challenges associated with interoperability.

5. Global Digital Health Index Performance

Presents Mexico’s scores across various categories (leadership, legislation, infrastructure) as per the Global Digital Health Index.
Identifies areas where Mexico excels (e.g. legal framework for data protection) and areas needing improvement (e.g. coordination, investment, and workforce training).

6. Stakeholder Roles and Collaboration