Jalisco establishes State Health Council to strengthen medical care and services.

The recent establishment of the State Health Council in Jalisco, an event that took place on January 28, 2025, and was led by Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro, marks a milestone in the state's health policy. This new body, which will be in effect until 2030, has as its primary mission to strengthen medical services and build a robust health system capable of responding to the growing demands of the population. During his speech, Lemus Navarro emphasized the importance of enriching medical units with content, stating that one of the council's fundamental objectives is to ensure medical care is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. An ambitious goal for medication supply was also established, aiming for a 92 percent coverage, a target that could lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life for the people of Jalisco. Among the health issues that will receive priority attention during this period are chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney disorders, heart conditions, and diabetes. The governor highlighted the need to address these pathologies in a sectoral manner, ensuring that free care for cancer and pediatric-juvenile diabetes is maintained, a commitment that resonates with the most vulnerable sectors of the population. The Regional Institute of Cancerology will be one of the cornerstones of this new strategy, as the governor pledged to promote its operation. Additionally, a hospital-school model will be implemented to enhance the quality of training for health personnel, ensuring that future professionals are adequately prepared to face the challenges of the health system. Lemus Navarro also called on the Health Secretariat and the State Health Council to take actions that help reduce maternal mortality and continue the fight against dengue, a disease that remains a threat in the region. These actions are vital in a context where public health faces multidimensional challenges that require a comprehensive and coordinated approach. The Secretary of Health of Jalisco, Héctor Raúl Pérez Gómez, emphasized that the state's health policy revolves around ten central objectives, including the care of priority diseases, mental health, and the training of health personnel. This comprehensive approach seeks not only to address the most prevalent diseases but also to elevate the quality of care received by all residents of Jalisco. One of the standout features of the council is its structure. It is chaired by the governor and has an executive secretary who is the head of the Health Secretariat of Jalisco. Additionally, it consists of nine permanent councilors, representatives from various health sector institutions, including IMSS, ISSSTE, and other decentralized public entities. This composition ensures plural representation and close collaboration among the different entities involved in public health. The goal of maintaining a supply of inputs and medications above 92 percent is a commitment that, if achieved, could radically transform the medical care experience in the state. This would not only increase patient satisfaction but could also be a decisive factor in disease prevention and improving the overall health status of the population. The intention to promote national and international accreditations for medical services in Jalisco is also a significant step toward raising quality standards in care. This measure aims to ensure that health services are not only accessible but also of the highest quality, aligning with best practices and global standards. Finally, this new State Health Council not only represents an opportunity to improve medical care in Jalisco but also reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in public health management. The implementation of a constant epidemiological surveillance system is crucial for detecting and responding to disease outbreaks, ensuring that the health of the people of Jalisco is protected at all times. The establishment of this council is undoubtedly a step in the right direction toward a stronger and more accessible health system for all.