Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS)

Overview

COFEPRIS is Mexico's federal health regulation agency, responsible for licensing and overseeing healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical products, and medical devices. COFEPRIS states that health-service establishments where surgical or obstetric acts are performed, among others, need a sanitary licence (licencia sanitaria) before they start operating; it also lists a notice-of-operation (aviso de funcionamiento) procedure for health-service establishments.

Founded: 2001 · Headquarters: Mexico City, Mexico

What It Covers

COFEPRIS licensing covers facility safety, sanitary conditions, personnel qualifications, and pharmaceutical handling. It is a regulatory licence, not a voluntary quality accreditation.

Limitations

COFEPRIS licensing is a baseline legal requirement, not a quality distinction. Which authorisation a facility needs depends on the kind of establishment, so ask the clinic which one applies to it. Its presence confirms legal authorisation to operate, not clinical quality above the minimum standard.

Renewal and Validity

COFEPRIS licences are subject to periodic renewal and inspection. Check that any licence or notice the clinic shows is current.

How to Verify

Verify any claim of COFEPRIS Licence accreditation directly at: gob.mx/cofepris

If a clinic claims this accreditation but does not appear in the public register, ask for the certificate number and expiry date. Contact the accrediting body directly to confirm.