Crisis in the Mexican healthcare system: neglect, negligence, and lack of resources.

The public health system in Mexico has been the subject of countless criticisms and reflections, becoming a hot topic in the daily lives of millions of citizens. It has been described as a "wheel of misfortune," where a patient's luck can change radically from one day to the next. For some, the system works adequately, and they manage to receive the necessary care; for others, experiences are traumatic and discouraging, leading to suffering and, at times, death. Despite the efforts of medical and paramedical staff, the reality in many public hospitals is one of neglect and lack of resources. The shortage of doctors and medications, as well as inadequate care, are obstacles that patients face daily. The stories of those who have had to deal with these problems are heartbreaking, revealing a landscape that is far from ideal. A clear example is the testimony of a patient who, after suffering from a serious illness, spent 25 days in a hospital where the staff's treatment was indifferent and hygiene conditions left much to be desired. The situation is further complicated when considering the long waits for consultations and treatments. Many patients can spend months waiting to be seen while their condition worsens. The story of a patient whose father died after years of insufficient medical care is a reminder that time is a luxury that many cannot afford in a system where bureaucracy and lack of attention go hand in hand. In contrast, private medicine presents itself as an alternative, but it has become increasingly inaccessible to a large part of the population. The rise in medical insurance costs has been alarming, with increases surpassing inflation and limiting access to healthcare for those who need it most. This disparity creates a situation where only those with resources can access adequate treatment, while the most vulnerable are left at the mercy of a failing system. Cases of negligence have also come to light, such as that of a mother who, after being admitted to the hospital with a medical emergency, never received the necessary treatment and died due to complications that could have been avoided. Such incidents awaken indignation and a sense of helplessness among citizens, who are forced to fight for care that should be their right. On an international level, the lack of investment in the health sector is a recurring issue. Although it is recommended that countries invest at least 6% of their GDP in health, Mexico allocates just over 2.5%. This translates into budget cuts that affect the quality of care and available services. The CIEP has warned about the reduction of the budget for hospitals and national institutes, which only exacerbates the current situation. The challenges are not limited to the public sector. Regulation in the health insurance field has also been criticized. With power concentrated in a small number of insurers controlling 75% of the market, many patients find themselves needing to resort to costly treatments that are not always covered by their policies. This lack of regulation creates an environment conducive to abuse and exploitation of users, who often end up paying out of pocket for interventions that should be covered. Despite the criticisms and disillusionment surrounding the health system in Mexico, there are those who have had positive experiences. Some patients have found quality care and medications at no cost through IMSS-Bienestar. However, these experiences are more the exception than the rule and do not reflect the reality of most Mexicans who struggle to access basic health services. The current situation of the health system in Mexico reflects the complexity of its operation and the multiple deficiencies that still persist. The wheel of misfortune continues to turn, and with it, the lives of millions of Mexicans who face the stress and uncertainty of a system that is not always up to their needs. The urgency for deep and meaningful reforms is undeniable, as is the need to ensure that health is an accessible right for all, regardless of their economic condition. In a country where health should be a priority, the challenge is to find the way toward a fairer and more equitable system.