In 2002, key research and funding institutions from Mexico and the United States recognized the health of Mexican migrants as a mutual responsibility given the major contributions to the economic and social development of both the United States and Mexico. As a result, the Research Programs on Migration and Health, (PIMSA for its Spanish acronym), was created.

The Research Program on Migration and Health (PIMSA for its Spanish acronym), is a transnational network of leading academic researchers and institutions throughout the United States and Mexico. The goal of PIMSA is to enhance understanding of migration and health-related issues facing migrant Mexican-origin workers and their families. This evidence-based information is fundamental to educate and to influence key decision-makers to create policies that will improve the health and quality of life for immigrants in the U.S. and in Mexico. 

PIMSA began 18 years ago as a collaborative effort with the National Council of Science and Technology (CONACYT, for its Spanish acronym), along with other UC programs. Since then, several additional universities and institutions of both countries have joined the consortium, which is administered by the Health Initiative of the Americas (HIA), UC Berkeley School of Public Health. 

In addition, a bi-national consortium was formed to oversee the main operations of PIMSA. The duties of the consortium include: identifying focus areas, determining selection procedures for grantees, and contributing to the general financial fund that provides grants.