The Cuban Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, informed The Associated Press (AP) that the country's already fragile healthcare system is on the brink of collapse. He attributes this dire situation to the U.S. blockade on oil supplies, which he claims not only affects the economy but also threatens basic human security and could endanger lives.
This warning comes as Portal highlighted that 5 million individuals with chronic illnesses will face disruptions in their medications or treatments. This includes 16,000 cancer patients requiring radiotherapy and another 12,400 undergoing chemotherapy.
During an interview with AP, Portal described a rapid deterioration over the past few weeks with ambulances struggling to find fuel for emergencies, persistent blackouts impacting dilapidated hospitals, and the suspension of flights carrying essential supplies. The Cuban government claims it can no longer refuel planes at its airports.
Particularly hard-hit services include cardiovascular care, orthopedics, oncology, and critical patient treatment that relies on electrical support. Kidney disease treatments and emergency ambulance services also fall under significant pressure.
The Cuban Ministry of Health has reported disruptions in essential services, including maternal and child care, cancer treatment, and hemodialysis, amidst the fuel shortage.
The energy crisis intensified last month when former U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing tariffs on any country selling or supplying oil to Cuba. In response, the Cuban regime launched an emergency plan, reducing healthcare and transportation to "minimal services" and allowing small businesses to independently manage the import and purchase of fuel.
Ongoing Crisis: Scarcity and Medical Exodus
Cuba's healthcare system has long struggled with shortages of supplies, personnel, and medications, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of doctors have emigrated, and hospitals have quickly deteriorated, forcing citizens to turn to the black market for medications.
Portal stated that the government is trying to "adapt" by installing solar panels in clinics and prioritizing care for children and the elderly. However, he acknowledged limitations in energy-dependent technologies—such as CT scans and laboratory tests—compelling doctors to rely on more basic methods and leaving many without access to high-level care.
The healthcare system is operating under emergency conditions, marked by service and surgery cutbacks due to blackouts, fuel shortages, supply scarcities, and the exodus of healthcare personnel.
Understanding the Cuban Healthcare Crisis
What are the main challenges facing the Cuban healthcare system?
The main challenges include severe shortages of medical supplies, personnel, and medications, exacerbated by fuel shortages, persistent blackouts, and a significant exodus of medical professionals.
How is the Cuban government responding to the healthcare crisis?
The government is installing solar panels in clinics, prioritizing care for vulnerable populations, and allowing small businesses to manage fuel imports independently to mitigate the crisis.