A Cuban citizen known as Rolando Castellanos took to social media to expose the dire sanitary conditions at the Children's Hospital in Havana, where his nephew is hospitalized with a fever of 102°F. The photos reveal rooms with peeling and moldy walls, bathrooms in a state of disrepair, rusted furniture, and an overall environment far from suitable for pediatric care.
“Even pigs aren't kept in such filth,” Castellanos remarked in his post, expressing his dismay that vulnerable patients are forced to stay in places he described as “pigsties.” His complaint echoes the frustration of numerous Cuban families experiencing similar conditions in hospitals across the nation, plagued by neglect and a lack of basic amenities.
In Camagüey, journalist José Luis Tan Estrada recently highlighted the bathrooms in the surgical ward of the Manuel Ascunce Domenech Provincial Hospital, describing them as “forgotten ruins” and likening the situation to a “silent extermination camp” due to the infection risks involved. Meanwhile, in Matanzas, a young woman shared her experiences on TikTok while accompanying her grandmother at the Faustino Pérez hospital, where she had to carry buckets of water because of no water supply.
Similar reports have emerged from Guantánamo, Holguín, and Güines, shedding light on the widespread decay of the healthcare system, which starkly contrasts with Cuba's official portrayal as a “medical powerhouse.”
Despite these challenges, healthcare workers continue to receive praise from patients and their families for their dedication, even as they struggle to provide care without essential resources.
Addressing Healthcare Challenges in Cuban Hospitals
What are the current conditions of hospitals in Cuba?
Many hospitals in Cuba, including the Children's Hospital in Havana, are reported to be in unsanitary conditions, with issues such as moldy walls, dilapidated bathrooms, and lack of basic resources.
How have Cuban citizens responded to the state of healthcare facilities?
Citizens have taken to social media to express outrage and disappointment over the poor conditions of healthcare facilities, sharing their personal experiences and raising awareness about the widespread issues.
Is the Cuban government addressing these healthcare issues?
There is a notable discrepancy between the Cuban government's portrayal of its healthcare system and the reality reported by citizens, suggesting a lack of adequate response to these pressing issues.