Palliative care in Mexico: a comparative analysis with the World Health Organization global framework

Access to palliative care remains insufficient in low- and middle-income countries, including Mexico. The World Health Organization identifies six components for integrating palliative care into health systems: health policies, essential medicines, service delivery, education, research and community empowerment.

To compare Mexico's palliative care model with the World Health Organization framework, identifying gaps and priorities for improvement.

A qualitative comparative review examined national legislation, clinical guidelines, peer-reviewed literature and reports from national and international organisations against the six components of the World Health Organization framework.

Mexico has made progress in legislation, specialised services and professional education. However, services remain concentrated in urban areas, with limited access in rural communities and insufficient paediatric provision. Restricted opioid access, gaps in professional training, financial constraints and uneven implementation of existing policies hinder equitable care. Research and data collection also remain limited.

Strengthening palliative care in Mexico requires integration into primary healthcare, improved access to essential medicines, effective implementation of existing legal frameworks, dedicated funding and stronger research capacity.

Expanding nursing and multidisciplinary training, supporting community-based services and raising awareness of patients' rights could improve access to timely, equitable and person-centred palliative care. Particular attention is needed for rural populations and children.