Experiencing firsthand the debunking of Cuba's reputation as a medical powerhouse is immensely satisfying, claims a young Cuban now residing in Peru after undergoing a general medical examination outside of the island. Sharing his experience on TikTok under the handle @leo.a.secas8, he ignited a wave of responses by contrasting the care received abroad with the harsh reality of Cuba's healthcare system.
"Yesterday, due to work, I had to get a general medical check-up, and everything went smoothly, perfectly fine, I'm in top shape," the young man, identified as @leo.a.secas8, begins. "But as a Cuban, it's my first time at a medical center outside of Cuba, and it was incredibly satisfying to be in a place where you're treated well, where everything is organized, clean, and well-stocked."
He then challenges one of the most common myths propagated by the official narrative: "Although the myth exists that healthcare in Cuba is unparalleled, it's not true. In Cuba, there aren't even gloves or syringes, as they call them here, nor medications. The places are unsanitary, the bathrooms are non-functional, the smell is unbearable."
The video concludes with a powerful statement: "Experiencing firsthand the debunking of Cuba's medical prowess is incredibly gratifying. Oh, how we were deceived!"
Mixed Reactions: System vs. Doctors
The video quickly went viral on TikTok, drawing thousands of comments. Many Cubans and Peruvians agreed with his account: "Thank you for speaking the truth. Many pro-communists here live in denial," one user commented. Another recalled, "When I went to the hospital in Cuba, there were no medications. Luckily, I brought my ampoules from Peru."
A woman remarked, "It's good that you're speaking the truth about Cuba. Maybe the 'reds' will realize the sad reality."
Conversely, some defended the Cuban medical profession. "The issue isn't the doctors; it's the system. Cuban professionals are highly skilled, even without technology," commented @ramsey, who identified as a Cuban physician. "You can disagree with a system, but to discredit those who have saved thousands of lives in numerous countries only highlights a lack of arguments," he added in another response.
@Un cubanito en Perú, the video's creator, responded: "There are skilled individuals and good doctors, but what good are they when there's nothing to work with? We've been taught to romanticize hardship, saying our doctors can make do with anything... just as doctors elsewhere would if they lacked resources. Let's be coherent, please, and stop deceiving ourselves."
A Common Experience
This testimony adds to a growing narrative among emigrants who, upon leaving Cuba, discover a different side to healthcare systems. In Mexico, a Cuban praised the details of the service at a Salud Digna center, noting the use of new needles and personalized sample identification.
In Spain, another Cuban described her awe after using public healthcare for the first time, likening it to a five-star hotel.
In Chile, a Cuban father showcased the free items he received upon the birth of his daughter as part of the "Chile Crece Contigo" state program, declaring, "Chile is fantastic, Cuba is nothing."
The Decline of Cuba's Health System: Facts and Figures
Far from being an isolated perception, the dire state of Cuba's healthcare system has even been acknowledged by the official press. An article in the 5 de Septiembre newspaper admitted, "Our elderly are unprotected, and everyone is vulnerable."
In Guantánamo, the provincial hospital Agostinho Neto was left without elevators for over two weeks, forcing staff to transport patients and even bodies via the stairs.
In Sancti Spíritus, the Escambray newspaper reported that patients have to pay up to 70,000 Cuban pesos for radiotherapy, a treatment that should be free.
In Camagüey, mothers reported appalling conditions at the Eduardo Agramonte pediatric hospital, including cockroaches, stagnant urine, and dirty utensils.
Once a symbol of the island's socialist model, Cuba's healthcare system is now being questioned by its own citizens both within and beyond its borders. As one TikTok user succinctly put it, "It’s pointless to have the best doctors if they lack the equipment and supplies."
Understanding Cuba's Healthcare System Challenges
What are the main issues with Cuba's healthcare system?
Cuba's healthcare system faces significant challenges, including shortages of basic medical supplies like gloves and syringes, unsanitary conditions, and a lack of medications. These issues are exacerbated by the country's economic struggles and systemic inefficiencies.
How do Cuban doctors manage with limited resources?
Cuban doctors are known for their resourcefulness and ability to work under challenging conditions. They often have to improvise and make do with limited resources, relying on their training and ingenuity to provide care despite the lack of essential supplies and equipment.
Why is there a discrepancy between Cuba's healthcare reputation and reality?
Cuba's healthcare reputation as a global leader is largely a result of government propaganda and international collaborations. However, the reality on the ground is starkly different, with many facilities lacking basic necessities and facing severe resource constraints.