[Health sector decentralization and divergences with the medical society in Mexico].
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the medical society's perception and actions in the context of health sector decentralization in the states of Guanajuato and Sonora, Mexico.


METHODS
Qualitative research techniques were applied. Thirty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with medical college members of both public and private institutions, and collegiate and union representatives of both states studied.


RESULTS
Members of medical society in both states acknowledged that decentralization implied in insecurity due to the lack of clarity of health sector regulations. As a result of actions of the medical college in both states there was a growing politicization of medical college members, elaboration of proposals to increase their control over the medical labor market and their participation in the regional political power structure.


CONCLUSIONS
This research supports the existing re-articulation of the medical society at a regional level preserving its status as a respected group. In contrast to studies conducted in the United States and Mexico medical authorities have pressed on the regulations in order to preserve their privileged status within the existing contention.
Abrantes Pego
Raquel
R
Centro de Investigaciones en Sistemas de Salud, Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México. rpego@correo.insp.mx
Arjonilla Alday
Sofía
S
D018166:Health Care Reform / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008800:Mexico; D011364:Professional Practice / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards; D012955:Societies, Medical / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000592:standards