IMSS revolutionizes pediatric oncology care in Mexico with OncoCREAN 2024.

The Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) has marked a milestone in pediatric oncology care during the year 2024, benefiting a total of 6,685 children diagnosed with cancer through its innovative National Strategy of the 36 State Reference Centers for the Care of Children with Cancer, known as OncoCREAN. This initiative, driven by the general director of IMSS, Zoé Robledo, aims to establish a comprehensive and accessible care model for all minors in the country, regardless of their geographical location. Since the implementation of this strategy began in 2022 until November 2024, 3,838 new cases of childhood cancer have been diagnosed and treated. This effort not only focuses on medical care but also seeks to ensure that all patients receive quality, standardized, and personalized treatment. The idea is for every child with cancer to have the same chances of recovery, regardless of their socioeconomic situation. One of the fundamental pillars of OncoCREAN has been the training of medical staff. To date, 6,187 micro-lessons on the Golden Hour strategy have been conducted, as well as 5,019 trainings on the use of the Early Warning Assessment Scale (EVAT). These initiatives primarily aim to facilitate the early identification of complications, resulting in significant improvements in clinical response and health outcomes for patients. Research also plays a crucial role in the fight against childhood cancer. At the Eastern Biomedical Research Center (CIBIOR), 2,232 studies have been conducted aimed at analyzing immunophenotype samples and minimal residual disease. This activity is fundamental for monitoring and customizing treatments, ensuring that each patient receives the most appropriate care for their specific condition. Telemedicine has been another key component of IMSS's strategy. Through 174 virtual sessions, 110 clinical cases have been analyzed, allowing specialists from different parts of the country to collaborate in the care of complex cases. This approach has proven invaluable, especially in a context where access to specialized care can be limited in some regions of the country. A highlighted aspect of the IMSS's efforts in pediatric oncology care is the number of transplants performed. In the last two years, 209 transplants have been carried out for patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, underscoring the institute's commitment to the health and well-being of children diagnosed with this disease. The OncoCREAN model has managed to concentrate 95% of the hospital discharges of minors diagnosed with cancer, demonstrating its effectiveness and the seriousness with which this issue is being addressed. Additionally, progress has been made in the development of immunotherapies, representing new hope in the treatment of childhood cancer by enhancing patients' immune system responses. The active participation of families has been another crucial element in the success of this strategy. Through working group meetings, it has been agreed to follow up on the supply of medications, review the Golden Hour strategy, and continue with medical update sessions, which has strengthened the bond between health teams and the patients' parents. Isaac Mejía Montes de Oca, head of Digital Services at IMSS, highlighted that to date, 19,102 patients have been registered on the oncology treatment platform, of which 35% corresponds to the pediatric population. This figure reflects the reach of the strategy and the institutional commitment to provide timely and efficient care to all minors in need. The follow-up meetings of the working group will resume on January 8, 2025, marking a new chapter in comprehensive and universal care for children with cancer in Mexico. IMSS reaffirms its commitment to continue advancing in the fight against this disease, ensuring that every child has access to quality care that offers them a better chance of recovery and quality of life.