In a video interview with Spanish YouTuber Juan Dalmau, Gilberto Castaño Martínez, the director of Luis Galván Clinic in Centro Habana, stated that his salary of 5,560 Cuban pesos is "decent." The Cuban official, featured on the Facebook profile "La Tijera," insisted to Dalmau that being a doctor in Cuba is "well-regarded" and "a good job."
"The base salary is 5,560 pesos, but it significantly increases with the new economic measures, which include additional pay for special conditions, night shifts, and on-call services," Castaño explained. Despite the rising inflation in Cuba, which makes it challenging for this salary to cover basic living expenses, he described the compensation as "decent."
Castaño further elaborated that a doctor could earn up to 30,000 pesos, noting that "the salary for a primary care physician, like us, differs from that of a secondary care physician, who earns slightly more." Attempting to downplay the crisis in the healthcare sector, he defended his profession, acknowledging the need for external assistance with supplies.
"We have the basic materials for treatment and medicines. While support is always welcome, we do have what we need to work," the doctor told the YouTuber. However, Dalmau noted a discrepancy during his visit; while Castaño claimed they had everything necessary, nurses quietly disagreed, suggesting a lack of sufficient resources for patients.
Until the end of 2024, a newly graduated physician earned 4,610 CUP monthly. This amount increased slightly to 5,060 CUP upon starting their residency and to 5,560 CUP after completing their specialization. The Ministry of Labor and Social Security in Cuba recently announced salary benefits for National Health System personnel, focusing on critical specialties and long-term care services.
The incentives include an extra 100 pesos per hour for night shifts and a performance bonus of 20 pesos per hour. Additionally, there is a 45% social economic interest coefficient added to the salary scale for nursing assistants in certain institutions. Despite the potential for a doctor's salary to surpass 10,000 CUP, it remains insufficient to ensure a dignified life, barely covering basic food necessities as prices continue to soar in recent years.
Understanding Cuban Doctors' Salaries
What is the base salary for doctors in Cuba?
The base salary for doctors in Cuba is 5,560 Cuban pesos, although this can increase with additional pay for night shifts and special conditions.
Are Cuban doctors' salaries sufficient to cover basic needs?
Despite potential increases, Cuban doctors' salaries often fall short of covering basic necessities, especially given the rising inflation and cost of living in Cuba.
What additional benefits do Cuban doctors receive?
Cuban doctors may receive additional compensation for working night shifts and a performance bonus, along with a social economic interest coefficient for some roles.