Oaxaca Hospital Crisis: 35,000 in Indigenous Communities Left Without Care

Oaxaca Hospital Crisis: 35,000 at Risk as Ixtepec Facility Deteriorates Ciudad Ixtepec, Oaxaca, Mexico – The Hospital General de Ciudad Ixtepec, serving 35,000 people across 21 indigenous communities, is facing a severe crisis. Lack of basic medical supplies, a failing drainage system, and deteriorating infrastructure have prompted doctors to drastically reduce services. "We don't have X-ray equipment, laboratory equipment, or basic parenteral solutions," stated Iván Matus, the emergency room doctor, highlighting the critical shortages. "This is the most vulnerable population; the one with the fewest resources, and they are the ones suffering most." A family member of a patient, Cinthia Cervantes, shared her experience: "I spend about 1,000 pesos a day on medication and supplies for my mother, who has been hospitalized for over 20 days." The hospital's transition from state to federal control under IMSS-Bienestar is cited as a contributing factor to the problems. The situation underscores the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and resource allocation in underserved communities. Despite the challenges, the hospital continues to provide emergency care. The ongoing situation serves as a stark reminder of the inequalities in healthcare access and the need for immediate action to address the critical needs of the community.