Ley General de Salud
The Ley General de Salud (General Health Law) is Mexico’s primary health legislation, establishing the framework for the national health system and the regulation of health services. The law defines the powers and responsibilities of federal and state health authorities, governs the delivery of health care, and regulates pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and public health measures. It establishes the right to health protection and the duties of health authorities in providing health services to the population.
Legal area: Medical and health law governs the public health system, health services, and the regulation of medical practice.
Year enacted: 1984
Full text: https://www.diputados.gob.mx/LeyesBiblio/htm/ley_general_salud.htm
Key Provisions
- Art. 2: Health as a fundamental right (salud como derecho fundamental)
- Art. 5-12: Organization of the national health system
- Art. 69-76: Regulation of medical practice and health professionals
- Art. 147-163: Pharmaceutical regulation (medicamentos y productos farmacéuticos)
- Art. 164-170: Sanitary surveillance (vigilancia sanitaria)
- Art. 190-200: Health services for the population (servicios de salud)
- Art. 205-210: Public health and epidemiological surveillance
Significance
The General Health Law is the primary statutory framework for Mexico’s public health system, which includes the IMSS, ISSSTE, and Seguro Popular (now INSABI/IMSS-Bienestar). The law’s recognition of health as a fundamental right reflects Mexico’s constitutional commitment to social rights. The law has been amended to address emerging public health challenges, including the regulation of emerging diseases, pharmaceutical reform, and the integration of health services across the country.