Nayarit: First State to Implement IMSS-Bienestar

In April, the IMSS-Bienestar Program will kick off in Nayarit to provide health services to those who do not have social security. By 2024, it is expected for all entities to operate under the umbrella of IMSS-Bienestar. “Within the transformation of the health system, no labor rights will be violated and no health worker will be fired,” said Zoé Robledo, General Director, IMSS.

IMSS-Bienestar aims to offer social security to those who are not affiliated to other public institutions, such as IMSS, ISSSTE or ISSFAM. The move is a part of the larger effort to bring access to health services to the majority of the Mexican population and comply with the country’s right to healthcare stated in the reform of the Fourth Constitutional Article, as reported by MBN. With this program, health services will be federalized and will assist the most vulnerable groups such as indigenous communities.

To make this transition, a census has been conducted in 13 states to have a clear picture of the health services provided by state institutions. The census evaluated medical devices, human, financial and material resources and the maintenance of medical clinics. After obtaining sufficient information, experts will gather to discuss and start the transfer of labor, infrastructure, financial and medical services. Agreements will also be necessary to expand IMSS-Bienestar’s services.

Nayarit, one of the states included in the census, will be the first state to implement the IMSS-Bienestar program. The census identified a deficit of 1,629 workers, including 453 general doctors, without which hospitals cannot operate efficiently 24 hours a day. Improvement in infrastructure is also needed as the census identified a lack of 12 neonatal units, an operating room, anesthesia and ophthalmological units and other physical spaces. Medical devices supply was also deemed poor.

IMSS-Bienestar will be implemented in the 32 states but the transition will be gradual. “The ultimate goal of the project is that by 2024, state government hospitals transform into IMSS-Bienestar hospitals. They will be managed by an institution with more stability and strength, such as IMSS,” said Robledo.