Less than a month after the Mexico City government touted the opening of a new high-tech emergency department and the renovation of Xoco General Hospital, workers and patients report that the hospital’s reality is far removed from the official narrative.
According to doctors, nurses, and union representatives, the newly completed facilities suffer from leaks, structural damage, and non-operational areas, while medical care is hampered by a lack of supplies and infrastructure issues.
Rainfall exposes flaws; doctors question the renovation
Heavy rains this week exposed several of the hospital’s deficiencies. The most serious incident occurred when leaks forced the suspension of operations at the blood bank, which supplies Mexico City’s hospital network.
Additionally, a section of the maxillofacial surgery unit collapsed, leading to the cancellation of appointments and heightening staff concerns regarding the building’s safety.
Workers also reported leaks in critical areas such as X-ray, intensive care, operating rooms, and outpatient clinics.
Furthermore, medical specialists at Xoco noted that the project involved more than just a simple renovation; new structures were added that, according to them, lacked proper planning and oversight.
They also raised concerns about the potential elimination of the gynecology and obstetric surgery unit to transform the hospital into a specialized tertiary-care trauma center—a decision that has not been officially communicated to the staff.
Meanwhile, the new emergency department touted by the government has yet to open, and several areas remain closed.
Source: sopitas
