International insurance giant, AXA, announced the launch of a new Mexico health care card, last week, offering discounted medical bills and financial support for hospital expenses.

The move serves US policy-makers as an example of how the private sector can help provide Mexico health care, at a time when the USA's own medical insurance system is under debate.

In a report by Mexican newspaper, El Economista, Guillermo Barraza, Director of Health for AXA Seguros in Mexico, said the new health card was aimed at a massive segment of the Mexico health care market totalling some 12 million families.

The new AXA Contigo card will cost 400 pesos ($30) per year and provide financial support of up to 5,000 pesos ($380) per hospitalization as well as preferential tariffs for medical services, 24/7 phone support and cover for two ambulance services per year.

Similar health "discount" cards already exist in Mexico, with products already being offered by VRIM, Sanborns and a number of regional Mexico health care companies.

The attraction of Mexico health care is already a major influence for US retirees looking to buy a home in the sun and the news is encouraging for the many thousands of foreigners that move or retire to Mexico every year.

Medical service prices are already very low in Mexico and health care cards can further reduce the costs. The new AXA Contigo card, for example, gives up to 30% off pharmacy prices, 20% off dental charges and 15% off at opticians.

As US health care continues to hit the headlines and prices continue to increase, many US citizens are already taking advantage of the low-cost, high-quality medical facilities across the border to the south. A trend that is set to continue and in the future it may even be possible to claim Medicare and Medicaid benefits in Mexico.

Investment Properties Mexico can help you make the move to Mexico, visit our Living in Mexico section for more about Mexican health insurance or Mexico health care.