The Mexico City Congress awarded the Medal for Merit in Health for the first time, as recognition for the work of nurses, doctors, psychologists, researchers, teachers, and organizations that work to ensure access to healthcare in the capital. During the ceremony, the president of the Health Commission, Valeria Cruz, highlighted that the work of the awardees transcends and inspires society. "On behalf of the Health Commission, I express our deepest respect, recognition, and gratitude. May this medal be an impulse to continue building and transforming a Mexico City that is more just, more humane, and healthier," said Valeria Cruz. Recognition of trajectory and contributions in 8 categories In total, eight categories were awarded, in which hundreds of health professionals participated for their career, social contributions, and scientific research. Healthcare Dr. Jesús Emmanuel Rosas Nava was recognized for his career of over 20 years, standing out in surgical innovation, scientific research, and medical training. He is a pioneer in minimal access techniques, laparoscopy, and robotic surgery in the public system, as well as the founder of the first school of laparoscopic and robotic surgery in urology at the General Hospital of Mexico. Health Promotion The recognition went to Dr. Samuel Vargas Trujillo for his work in the field of hematology. Mental Health The collective 'Poner la Salud en las Manos del Pueblo', made up of psychologists Jesús Omar Manjarrez Ibarra, Mario Carranza Aguilar, Jesús Segura Hidalgo, and José Joel Vázquez, was distinguished for promoting community emotional support networks for over 40 years. Social Work Teacher Verónica Martínez Velasco was recognized for establishing standards that dignify social work in the health sector. Altruistic Actions The association 'Visibilizando Voces A.C.', represented by Alejandra Portillo Salgado, received the award for over 15 years of work with vulnerable populations and sex-diverse groups. Humanitarian Actions Gabriela de la Torre Mercado, founder of 'México Sonríe', was highlighted for her support for cancer patients through donations, emotional accompaniment, and the making of oncological wigs. Traditional Medicine The recognition went to the 'Community of Traditional Medicine and Midwifery Houses in Mexico', represented by Amparo Calderón Soto and Griselda Isabel Soriano Carreño, for preserving ancestral health knowledge. Teaching Dr. Olga Marina Robelo Zarza was recognized for her contribution to the training of health professionals and her participation in academic programs at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Research Finally, Dr. Verónica Pérez de la Cruz received the award for her contributions in neurobiochemistry, with implications for the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. She is the founder of the Neurobiochemistry and Behavior Laboratory at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurosurgery.
