Health is a fundamental part for any person and one that cannot be dispensed with. A proper diet and the constant practice of physical activities are vital to keep the body and mind in good shape. But when any discomfort or ailment occurs, it is necessary to go to a doctor to receive an assessment. Not all problems are created equal and some are even quite onerous. Do you know what are the most expensive diseases to treat in Mexico?
First of all, it should be remembered that there are more than 60 million people who lack social security in our country. This implies that in the face of any health problem they are usually left helpless.
Similarly, being affiliated with IMSS or ISSSTE does not guarantee being able to receive immediate medical care. The delay in the service has been one of the reasons that have promoted the model of the clinics to pharmacies.
This type of business has become one of the most successful in Mexico. To date there is more than 15,000 open spaces and more are being opened constantly. The cheapness of their consultations is part of the appeal for low-income people.
In fact, in 2019 the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris) announced that the offices attached to pharmacies had already become the first source of consultation for Mexicans.
The figures at that time showed that this type of business offers between 200,000 and 220,000 queries per day. On the other hand the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) barely reaches a maximum of 185 thousand. While after the pandemic the difference became even greater. Especially due to the fear of patients to stay for long hours in the waiting rooms of public hospitals.
How much does it cost to receive medical care in Mexico?
But now it’s time to talk about today. COVID-19 is not only one of the leading causes of mortality in Mexico but also one of the more expensive diseases to treat. But there are also other pathologies that require large amounts for patients and their families.
In this context, AXA Mexico shares which were the most expensive conditions, the most frequent and those with the highest increase in average cost, during 2021.
The most frequent diseases in Mexico
- Digestive – More than 18 thousand
- Respiratory – More than 14 thousand
- Cancer – More than 10 thousand
- Shoulder, hip and knee (orthopaedics) – More than 9 thousand
- Cardiovascular – Almost 9 thousand
- Digestive problems, such as acute appendicitis or gastritis, were the most recurrent among AXA Mexico policyholders.
- COVID-19 was the most frequent respiratory disease during 2021. It represents almost half (49%) of the total.
- Breast cancer, with more than 850 cases, was the most recurrent.
Top 5 of the most expensive diseases to treat in Mexico during 2021
- COVID-19 – $880 thousand
- Hematology – More than $312 thousand
- Cancer – About $311 thousand
- Respiratory – More than $254 thousand
- COVID-19 remains the most expensive disease today. Among AXA Mexico policyholders, there were more than 7,000 confirmed cases during 2021, of which the most expensive case exceeded $45 million pesos.
- COVID-19 cases without comorbidities were 48% less expensive than those with comorbidities.
- The malignant breast tumor is the most expensive type of cancer, with an average cost of almost $312 thousand pesos.
Top 5 diseases with the highest increase in average cost 2021 vs 2020
- Respiratory – 61%
- Hematology – 43%
- Newborn ailments – 36%
- Shoulder, hip and knee (orthopaedics) – 30%
- Column – 25%