Mexico CT Scan Market Analysis

Mexico CT Scan Market Executive Summary

Mexico CT Scan Market was valued at $69.15 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 8.12% from 2023 to 2030, to $119.44 Mn by 2030.

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a sophisticated imaging procedure that uses X-rays to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body. Unlike traditional X-rays, CT scans capture multiple views from various angles, which a computer then processes into a three-dimensional representation of internal structures such as organs, bones, and soft tissues. Before the scan, patients may prepare by wearing a gown and removing metal objects. Depending on the type of scan, they might need to ingest a contrast material to enhance the visibility of specific tissues. During the scan, patients lie on a table that moves through a donut-shaped scanner while X-ray images are taken. Afterward, a radiologist interprets the images to diagnose conditions like cancer, heart disease, bone fractures, internal bleeding, and injuries. While CT scans offer detailed diagnostic capabilities, they involve radiation exposure and can be costly, though advancements have minimized risks and enhanced safety. Other imaging options like X-rays, ultrasound, and MRI scans are considered based on specific medical needs and radiation concerns.

Chronic diseases pose a significant public health challenge in Mexico, with chronic kidney disease, arterial hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and chronic ischemic heart disease accounting for 88% of the $1.42 Bn CD financial burden for the Ministry of Health and 85% of the $3.96 Bn burden for the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS). These conditions, excluding cancer, represent 8% of the total annual health expenditure for the Ministry of Health and 25% for IMSS, underscoring their substantial economic impact. The growing use of CT scans, particularly for chronic conditions, highlights Mexico's position as the second-largest radiology market in Latin America, with increasing demand expected as the population ages.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like the rising burden of chronic diseases, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and the aging population. However, high costs, skilled workforce shortage, and maintenance and repair challenges restrict the growth and potential of the market.

A prominent player in this field is GE Healthcare, which launched a new refurbishing unit in Bangladesh for A1-Sure Ultrasound Systems, aiming to enhance accessibility to affordable ultrasound technology in developing regions, and Siemens Healthineers partnered with Microsoft to utilize Azure cloud services for AI-powered medical imaging solutions, aimed at advancing healthcare delivery with secure and scalable cloud computing. Other contributors include Canon Medical Systems, and NeuroLogica Corp. among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases: Mexico is experiencing a growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, which frequently require CT scans for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring. According to the International Diabetes Federation, Mexico has the highest adult diabetes prevalence in North America, affecting over 12.8 Mn people.

Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure: Investments in both public and private healthcare infrastructure are increasing access to diagnostic imaging services, including CT scans. Initiatives like Seguro Popular (Popular Insurance) aim to expand healthcare coverage and improve service delivery.

Aging Population: The aging population in Mexico is leading to a higher demand for medical imaging. The National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) projects that by 2050, over 18% of the Mexican population will be 65 or older, increasing the need for CT scans due to age-related medical conditions.

Market Restraints

High Costs: The cost of CT scans can be a barrier for many patients, particularly those without adequate health insurance. The cost varies depending on the type of scan, use of contrast material, and facility fees, ranging between $250 - $750 per scan.

Skilled Workforce Shortage: Operating and interpreting CT scans requires specialized training. A shortage of qualified radiologists and technicians can limit the utilization of CT scanners and potentially create bottlenecks in the diagnostic process.

Maintenance and Repair Challenges: The complex nature of CT scanners requires specialized maintenance and repair expertise. Limited availability of trained technicians or spare parts in certain regions can lead to downtime for scanners, impacting patient access and workflow efficiency.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The Mexican healthcare system, regulated by COFEPRIS (Comisión Federal para la Protección contra Riesgos Sanitarios), ensures the safety and efficacy of medical devices, including CT scanners. Manufacturers must obtain marketing authorization from COFEPRIS for new CT scanner models, adhering to the Normas Oficiales Mexicanas (NOM) that establish technical specifications for safety, performance, and quality control. Post-market surveillance is conducted by COFEPRIS to monitor performance and address safety concerns, while radiation safety regulations focus on operator training, dose monitoring, and minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure for patients.

CT scan reimbursement in Mexico varies between the public and private healthcare sectors. The public system, including Seguro Popular and IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social), provides coverage for CT scans based on medical necessity and physician justification, though coverage may be limited for low-income individuals. In the private sector, most health insurance plans cover medically necessary CT scans, with specific coverage details, deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance varying by plan. Patients in the private system often face out-of-pocket costs depending on their insurance coverage.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the Mexico CT Scan Market:

• GE HealthCare
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• Canon Medical Systems
• NeuroLogica Corp.
• Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., Ltd.
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
• Shenzhen Anke High-tech Co., Ltd.
• Koning Health
• Carestream Dental LLC.