Universal Health Credential Registration Opens Tomorrow: 120 Million Mexicans Gain Access to Any Public Health Facility

On the eve of the Universal Health Credential's formal registration launch, Mexico's health system was prepared to begin enrolling citizens at over 2,000 modules nationwide starting April 13. The rollout begins with citizens aged 85 and older, proceeding by age group and surname initial through April 30. The credential — formally announced via presidential decree on April 8 — eliminates the institutional barriers that prevented Mexicans from receiving care at public health facilities outside their specific enrollment program (e.g., IMSS patients being refused care at ISSSTE facilities). Beyond health access, the credential will serve as official national identification from 2027, complementing the INE card. A dedicated mobile application with AI-assisted digital consultations and medical records will accompany the credential. The full integration of IMSS, ISSSTE, and IMSS-Bienestar into the Universal Health Service is planned for January 1, 2027. International progressive media framed the credential as a landmark step toward genuine universal healthcare, contrasting it with the U.S. system. Registration requirements include official ID, certified CURP (national population registry), proof of address no older than six months, and a contact phone number.