The relationship between remittances and health care provision in Mexico

Abstract

Objectives. We examined whether remittances sent from the United States to Mexico were used to access health care in Mexico. Methods. Data were from a 2006 survey of 2 localities in the municipal city of Tepoztlán, Morelos, Mexico. We used logistic regression to determine whether household remittance expenditure on health care was associated with type of health insurance coverage. Results. Individuals who lacked insurance coverage or who were covered by the Seguro Popular program were significantly more likely to reside in households that spend remittances on health care than were individuals covered by an employer-based insurance program. Conclusions. Improving the coverage and quality of care within Mexico's health care system will help ensure that remittances serve as a complement, and not a substitute, to formal access to care.