A TikTok user from Cuba, known as Gthaly, has brought to light the deplorable state of a hospital in Guantánamo where her grandfather is currently admitted, sparking outrage on social media. "I went to visit my grandfather at the hospital where he's been for over four days. These are the conditions he's in. Here's a glimpse of the place, it’s disgraceful, disgusting, and shameful. This shouldn't even be called a hospital. I'm extremely outraged because it pains anyone to see this, and not just that, the food is repulsive. It's truly heartbreaking to witness the current situation in Cuba," expressed @gthaly1, showcasing images of dilapidated walls, dampness, filth, and rundown furniture.
Among the reactions from users, comments such as “I thought Cuba was a world power in medicine, what happened? Oh right, communism”; “Doctors are still good. But they aren't to blame for how the government manages healthcare in Cuba”; “What good are skilled doctors if they don't have the resources to treat patients?”; and “This shouldn't be called a hospital” can be read.
This video adds to recent complaints about the healthcare crisis in Cuba, especially in Guantánamo. In May, a severe malfunction halted the elevators at the Dr. Agostinho Neto General Teaching Hospital for over two weeks, forcing the transport of patients, food, and supplies via stairs, and later restricting their use due to a lack of new parts.
In January, relatives of patients at the "Luis Ramírez López" Psychiatric Hospital reported a lack of medical equipment and mistreatment of patients, including a broken electroconvulsive therapy machine that went unrepaired for months.
Recent Health Crisis Incidents
In July 2024, an image went viral showing the meager meal given to a child at the Guantánamo pediatric hospital: "a bit of white rice, peas, and five pieces of boiled plantain," alongside reports of the poor condition of the bathrooms.
The healthcare crisis has been acknowledged by the Health Minister, José Ángel Portal Miranda, who in July 2025 admitted that Cuba only has 30% of the essential drug list amidst a "widespread deterioration of medical services."
The complaints aren't confined to Guantánamo. In August, Dr. Roselin Moreno highlighted the neglect of hemodialysis patients in Manzanillo, with treatment interruptions due to shortages of supplies like sodium bicarbonate.
That same month, the government conceded the collapse of power plants in hospitals in Santiago de Cuba, risking intensive care and medication preservation.
Also in August, patients and relatives reported infestations, filth, and neglect at the Lenin Provincial Hospital in Holguín, with mattresses infested with bedbugs and unusable bathrooms.
Gthaly's post, with its vivid images and firsthand account, underscores a harsh reality in Cuba's medical facilities, which according to numerous reports and official statements, is part of a structural crisis impacting public health across the island.
Understanding the Cuban Healthcare Crisis
What are the main issues facing Cuban hospitals?
Cuban hospitals are grappling with severe issues such as dilapidated infrastructure, lack of medical supplies, inadequate food for patients, and failing essential equipment due to poor government management.
How has the government responded to the healthcare crisis?
The Cuban government has acknowledged the crisis, with the Health Minister admitting to a shortage of basic medications and a general decline in medical services across the country.
What impact does the healthcare crisis have on patients?
Patients face significant challenges including inadequate medical care, unsanitary conditions, insufficient nutrition, and delayed treatments which can have severe health implications.