The esteemed Cuban actor and director, Alejandro Palomino, has made a heartfelt plea on Facebook, urging for support and prayers for his wife, fellow actress Nora Elena Rodríguez Cruz, who is battling a severe health crisis. In his post, Palomino explained that since January, his wife has been enduring respiratory crises, neurological disturbances, loss of focus, immobility, and intense pain in her chest and arm. These symptoms are attributed to Bicuspid Aortic Stenosis, a congenital heart condition that necessitates surgical intervention.
"We are neither as fragile nor as strong as we appear," the actor expressed. "When a patient cries out, pleads, and implores for their life, their case demands immediate hospital admission, examination, and surgical treatment, in accordance with the characteristics of their serious ailment."
Palomino also highlighted the challenges faced by Cuban doctors due to the inadequate healthcare system but expressed gratitude for the dedication of the medical staff at the Cardiovascular Hospital of Havana, where Nora Elena has been admitted for the second time. "I am deeply thankful for the generosity and efforts made to facilitate this admission and the subsequent surgery by numerous doctors at this important Institute. Especially, to Dr. Jorge Enrique Aguiar Pérez and Dr. Damaris, the Director of that hospital center," he emphasized.
Healthcare System's Struggles Exposed
The surgery date remains unconfirmed, but the actor is hopeful that the medical efforts will pave the way for his wife to receive the urgent care she requires. The plight of Palomino's wife is set against the backdrop of a severe healthcare crisis affecting the entire country. According to official statistics, over 70% of essential medications are unavailable, equating to more than 460 medications from the basic list. This shortage has forced many patients to turn to the informal market or rely on international donations for basic treatments.
Cuban hospitals are also grappling with a dire shortage of medical supplies. In some cases, patients must bring their own syringes and aerosol mouthpieces due to the lack of these materials. In extreme situations, buttons have been used as substitutes for medical supplies during surgical procedures.
Impact on Pharmacies and Medical Personnel
Additionally, the public health system has suffered a significant loss of personnel. Over 12,000 doctors left the system in 2022, reducing the total number of physicians and affecting the doctor-patient ratio. This situation has led to numerous complaints from citizens who endure the lack of specialists and face long queues for adequate treatment.
The crisis has also deeply affected pharmacies, where medication shortages have reached critical levels. Many Cubans are forced to wait in long lines or even sleep outside pharmacies to try to secure the drugs they need.
In this context, Alejandro Palomino's appeal not only highlights his family's personal struggle but also underscores the severe shortcomings of the Cuban healthcare system, which impacts thousands of citizens nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Healthcare Crisis
What condition is Nora Elena Rodríguez Cruz suffering from?
She is suffering from Bicuspid Aortic Stenosis, a congenital heart condition that requires surgical intervention.
How has the healthcare crisis in Cuba affected medical supplies?
Cuban hospitals face a severe shortage of medical supplies, with patients sometimes having to provide their own materials, like syringes, due to scarcity.
What percentage of essential medications are unavailable in Cuba?
Over 70% of essential medications are unavailable, forcing reliance on the informal market and international donations.