The Cuban government has struck a health agreement with Italy's Molise region, directly challenging U.S. warnings against Cuba's medical services export system, which the U.S. deems coercive and exploitative. Molise's President, Francesco Roberti, announced that the region has reached an understanding with Cuba's ambassador to Italy, Mirta Granda Averhoff, regarding the arrival of doctors from various specialties. However, the exact number and expected arrival date remain unspecified, according to EFE news agency.
Roberti indicated that at least 100 medical professionals are needed, particularly in rural areas and emergency services. The shortage of healthcare workers in Molise has been a longstanding issue, worsening over the last decade, as noted by Roberti. A report from the Bank of Italy highlights that the exodus of doctors and nurses from the National Health Service stems from limited opportunities, poor working conditions, and low wages.
Key hospitals in the region, such as the Veneziale in Isernia and the Caracciolo in Agnone, are operating at their limits, with some services at risk of closure. This initiative mirrors the model used in Calabria, where over 490 Cuban doctors have been working since 2022 under an agreement extended to 2024. This persists despite a significant shortage of doctors in Cuba itself, which greatly impacts healthcare for its citizens.
Nevertheless, this agreement comes at a time when Washington has ramped up sanctions and warnings against governments and entities that hire Cuban medical brigades, accusing them of being part of a labor trafficking scheme. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced visa restrictions for several Cuban officials and others allegedly involved in forced labor related to Cuban medical services exports.
In response, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla described the sanctions as "imposition and aggression," asserting that "Cuba will continue to provide" medical services abroad. Despite the challenges, Cuba continues to promote these agreements as a vital source of foreign currency amid its ongoing economic crisis.
Key Questions about Cuban Medical Services Abroad
Why is the U.S. opposed to Cuba's exportation of medical services?
The U.S. opposes Cuba's exportation of medical services because it considers the system to be coercive and exploitative, likening it to a form of labor trafficking.
How many Cuban doctors are currently working in Italy's Molise region?
The exact number of Cuban doctors expected to work in Molise has not been specified, but at least 100 are needed according to regional authorities.
What are the reasons behind the medical staff shortage in Italy's Molise region?
The shortage is attributed to structural issues, worsened by a lack of opportunities, poor working conditions, and low salaries, which have led to an exodus of healthcare workers.