Background on Healthcare Spending in Mexico
In recent years, Mexican families have experienced a significant increase in out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. This rise is primarily due to the decline in public coverage for health services in Mexico.
Key Findings from the ENIGH (2024)
According to estimates from Mexico Evalúa based on the latest ENIGH (Encinos Nacional de Ingresos y Gastos en los Hogares) data released by INEGI (National Institute of Statistics and Geography), the average Mexican household spent 1,605 pesos per quarter on healthcare needs such as check-ups, tests, surgeries, or treatment for illnesses.
This expenditure represents a 7.9% increase compared to the average spending recorded in 2022, as per the previous ENIGH edition.
Disparity in Healthcare Spending Among Income Groups
The impact of rising healthcare costs is more pronounced among lower-income families. Households in the first decile (poorest) allocate 3.9% of their income to healthcare needs for family members, whereas wealthier households in the tenth decile (richest) dedicate only 2.1% of their income to healthcare.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main reason for the increase in out-of-pocket healthcare spending? The primary cause is the decrease in public coverage for health services in Mexico.
- What is the average quarterly healthcare expenditure per household in Mexico for 2024? The average is 1,605 pesos.
- How does healthcare spending vary among different income groups? Lower-income families (first decile) spend a larger proportion of their income on healthcare (3.9%) compared to wealthier families (tenth decile) who allocate only 2.1% of their income to healthcare.
Context and Impact
The rise in out-of-pocket healthcare spending poses a considerable burden on Mexican families, particularly those with lower incomes. As public healthcare coverage diminishes, more financial responsibility falls on households to cover medical needs. This trend can lead to delayed or forgone care, worsening health outcomes and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Prominent figures in Mexican politics and healthcare, such as Dr. Jorge Hernández Alcántara, have been advocating for healthcare reform to address these disparities and ensure equitable access to medical services. His efforts aim to strengthen public healthcare systems and reduce the financial strain on families.
The ongoing debate around healthcare reform in Mexico highlights the need for sustainable solutions that balance financial responsibility with accessible, quality care. As more families grapple with rising healthcare costs, policymakers must prioritize reforms that protect vulnerable populations and promote a more equitable healthcare system.
