[Responsiveness of the Mexican health system]

To present and discuss findings on the responsiveness of the Mexican health system.

The data source was the 2002-2003 National Performance Assessment Survey. A descriptive analysis was performed and results were adjusted for user's expectations using vignette information. Final results were disaggregated by sex, provider, age, and education level.

Responsiveness scores given by women and senior individuals were higher than those provided by men and young adults. Major differences were observed when provider comparisons were made. In ambulatory care, the Ministry of Health and private providers were better rated than major social security institutions. For in-patient care, private providers were better rated than public health institutions.

Responsiveness of the Mexican health system requires improvements in certain areas in order to meet one of the basic goals of all health systems.