AI In Health: Challenges, Opportunities It Brings To Mexico

Mexico’s healthcare system is at a critical juncture, as the combination of underinvestment, population aging, and rising chronic diseases has created a complex environment that stands to affect millions. These circumstances make it urgent to address long-standing structural challenges, which could be done by leveraging new technologies such as AI to improve access, efficiency, and equity. 

“We are among the countries that invest the least in healthcare, and our life expectancy is not good. While Japan and Spain continue to advance, Mexico faces a much greater challenge,” says Héctor Valle, Executive President, FunSalud. 

This underinvestment affects human resources, medical equipment, and hospital infrastructure. For example, the majority of endocrinologists are concentrated in Mexico City, Jalisco, and Nuevo Leon, leaving states such as Campeche, Tabasco, and Guerrero with fewer than six specialists each, says Valle. Hospital beds per capita remain far below OECD standards, and projected shortages by 2030 could become severe. “Mexico has one hospital bed for a large number of inhabitants, and by 2030 the shortage will be enormous. A single bed costs 1 million dollars; there is simply not enough budget to cover the need,” he adds.

Challenges extend beyond infrastructure. Chronic and cardiometabolic diseases and violence exacerbate the pressure on an already fragmented system. “Our healthcare system is fragmented and complex. IMSS-Bienestar adds even more complexity,” Valle says. Access disparities are stark: while residents of Mexico City or Guadalajara have relatively easier access, citizens in Morelia or Veracruz face significant barriers.  “We do not have enough doctors; we do not have them in the right specialties; and we do not have them in the right places,” he adds.

Amid these challenges, technology offers significant opportunities. Valle highlighted the transformative potential of AI, telemedicine, genomics, and robotics. “AI can become a co-pilot for physicians: with patient data, it can help build clinical records and make use of unstructured information,” he says. Remote consultations, virtual reality training, IoT-enabled monitoring, and 3D printing of medical devices can all accelerate care delivery and address geographic inequities. Public-private partnerships, digital-first care models, and preventive interventions are central to these efforts.

Valle stresses the importance of systemic and collaborative approaches. “We must invest in both the public and private sectors, incorporating new technologies to reduce gaps and achieve greater equity,” he adds. Initiatives with international organizations such as the World Bank are underway to strengthen Mexico’s system and prepare for future pandemics.

Toward a New Healthcare Framework

Looking ahead, the focus is on leveraging technology to close access gaps and improve efficiency. By incorporating AI and digital tools, Mexico can implement models of care that are more preventive, data-driven, and patient-centered. Public-private collaboration and increased investment are essential to scale these innovations effectively. “If we do not incorporate new technologies, the challenge will become unsustainable. The world is moving toward digitalization. In healthcare, this means telemedicine and technologies that can serve remote areas of the country where specialists do not go,” says Valle.

The path forward requires both urgency and vision. By combining strategic investment, innovation, and systemic reform, Mexico has the opportunity to redefine healthcare delivery, reduce inequities, and ensure a more resilient and sustainable system for the decades to come.