Alejandro Svarch takes on leadership of IMSS-Bienestar in pursuit of universal health.

Alejandro Svarch Pérez has been appointed as the next head of IMSS-Bienestar, a key organization aimed at providing medical care to those not covered by any social security system in Mexico. This appointment comes in the context of the transition of the government of Claudia Sheinbaum, who will assume the presidency on October 1, 2023. With a solid medical background and a distinguished career in public administration, Svarch faces one of the most important challenges in the field of public health in the country. Sheinbaum confirmed his appointment in a context where universal healthcare is more necessary than ever. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Svarch played a crucial role in training general practitioners and specialists to address the health crisis, earning recognition in the health sector. "I am very happy that Alejandro has accepted this responsibility, which is one of the most important roles we will undertake," emphasized the future president, highlighting the significance of his work in times of emergencies. IMSS-Bienestar, established in 2022, represents an evolution of the previous structure of the Institute of Health for Well-being (Insabi), and currently serves beneficiaries in 23 states across the country. Both Sheinbaum and Svarch have emphasized that their goal is to achieve universal health coverage in Mexico, allowing all citizens, regardless of their social security status, to access quality medical care. Svarch has expressed his commitment to this mission, stating that medical care should be not only accessible but also excellent and focused on human warmth. "The idea is to move towards universal health coverage in our country," he declared during the announcement of his appointment, reflecting his intention to advance an inclusive and equitable health policy. With a solid academic background that includes a degree in surgical medicine, a specialty in internal medicine, and a master's degree in public health from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), Svarch has proven to be a highly qualified professional. His career in public administration began in 2018 as director of International Relations at the Ministry of Health, where he developed strategies to assist the migrant population, an area that has gained relevance in recent years. The pandemic was a turning point in his career, as he was appointed National Medical Coordinator of the Ministry of Health, where he was responsible for implementing training programs for medical personnel treating COVID-19 patients. His leadership during that period allowed him to gain invaluable experience in emergency situations and health crises. Since 2021, Svarch has been at the helm of the Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris), where he has worked on the digitization of processes and the release of millions of COVID-19 vaccines. Under his direction, Cofepris joined the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements, reflecting a global approach to the regulation of pharmaceutical products. Now, as head of IMSS-Bienestar, Svarch will have the opportunity to build on this experience and work closely with key figures such as Zoé Robledo, director of the Mexican Social Security Institute, and David Kershenobich, who will be the next Secretary of Health. This trio will face the challenge of transforming the Mexican health system into a more inclusive and accessible model. Svarch has promised that critical areas such as cancer treatments, HIV, heart attacks, strokes, and vaccinations will be covered by IMSS-Bienestar. This represents a significant advancement in the care of chronic diseases and health emergencies, a commitment that could change the lives of millions of Mexicans. With his academic training and experience in managing public health crises, Alejandro Svarch Pérez is in a privileged position to lead this new chapter in the Mexican health system. His appointment reflects the vision of the incoming government to address the health needs of the population equitably, a fundamental principle underlying the creation of IMSS-Bienestar.