- An investigation by the Nosotrxs collective affirms that 2021 was the year with the largest shortage of medicines in Mexico.
- The elimination of Seguro Popular and the change in the acquisition of drugs have been some of the most controversial decisions of the current government.
- In 2022 it was reported that INCan did not even have Paracetamol for its patients.
Over the last few months the crisis has intensified due to the shortage of medicines in Mexico. This serious situation is constantly reported in various hospitals and public institutes in the country. The most affected are the patients themselves because they must interrupt their treatments or replace the drugs with others, although in the end the results are not the same.
With this in mind, the association Voice Pro Mental Health Mexico City (VPSM CDMX) emphasized that this situation can be deadly in patients with chronic diseases. By not being able to continue with their treatments, they have a high risk of suffering a relapse with serious consequences.
Data from chronic disease program (CDMP for its acronym in English) of 2022, indicate that there are 23 chronic diseases worldwide. Among the main ones are the diabetes, hypertension, autoimmune diseases, heart conditions and psychiatric diseases who rely heavily on drugs for patients to lead a normal life.
Current situation shows minimal and insufficient progress
The problem is that the Zero Shortage Collective He pointed out that the supply of medicines in Mexico improved in 2022 compared to 2021, although it is still below the levels of 2017 and 2018. He added that the outlook for this 2023 and 2024 shows no signs of improvement in purchasing processes or in the exercise of resources.
“The above is worrying because simply in the field of psychiatric diseases, mood regulators, antipsychotics and antidepressants are needed so that patients remain stable,” said Gabriela Cámara Cáceres, honorary president of VPSM CDMX.
The organization notes that the Patient commitment to their medical treatment is essential when being diagnosed with any disease. However, discipline and commitment in the administration of medicines guarantee success or failure and the recurrence of symptoms.
Improvement of patients depends on adherence to their treatments
On an international scale, it has been stated that the shortage of medicines depends directly on the lack of inputs and components for its preparation, as well as the lack of conditions in its distribution and logistics.
Unfortunately, it is more difficult for rural populations to access health services and regularly attend appointments at medical centers, as well as acquire indicated medications.
Gabriela Cámara concludes that it is important that people with these chronic illnesses achieve their self-care and discipline to comply with medical treatment. They must also seek a healthy lifestyle based on taking care of their nutrition, exercising and paying attention to their hours of sleep.
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