Mexico's Healthcare Crisis: Millions Left Behind After Seguro Popular's Demise

Millions Without Healthcare: The Human Cost of Mexico's Failed Health Reform Mexico City, May 29, 2025 – Millions of Mexicans are facing a healthcare crisis following the elimination of the Seguro Popular program and the subsequent implementation of the Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar (INSABI). This report shines a light on the devastating consequences for vulnerable populations, using the case of Elisa Lorena Estrada, a 29-year-old battling metastatic breast cancer, as a poignant example. "I was diagnosed at 23. I was treated under Seguro Popular at the Breast Cancer Foundation. I never lacked any medication. They even gave me extra," Elisa shares, contrasting her past access to care with her current struggles. The Seguro Popular program, replaced in 2020, provided comprehensive coverage, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. But under INSABI, Elisa's treatment was interrupted, leaving her to face significant financial burdens for essential medications. Felipe Villegas, Medical Director of FUCAM, confirms Elisa's experience, stating, "The patient paid nothing for her treatment, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery." However, the transition to INSABI has resulted in a significant gap in access to care, leaving countless individuals like Elisa without the necessary support. Alma Guardarrama, a researcher at La Salle University, adds, "17.3 million Mexicans lost access to healthcare. It's not just about medications, but access to medical services." This lack of access has created widespread uncertainty and fear among the Mexican population. Despite the challenges, Elisa’s story also offers a glimmer of hope. With the support of FUCAM, she survived her cancer. Her resilience and the dedication of organizations like FUCAM highlight the need for continued advocacy and reform to ensure that no one else has to endure the same struggles. The fight for healthcare access in Mexico continues.