Dr. Eduardo Chacón Bayard, a Cuban specialist in Internal Medicine, was discovered deceased on Tuesday in his hotel room in Ometepec, Guerrero, as reported by local outlets such as Diario Alternativo and Despierta Ayutla.
Chacón Bayard had been serving patients at the IMSS-Bienestar General Hospital in Ometepec, focusing on the Costa Chica region for over two years.
The official cause of death has not yet been disclosed by authorities. Preliminary reports, however, suggest natural causes. According to Reporte C, evidence indicates the doctor may have suffered a heart attack, although this has not been officially confirmed.
Colleagues and patients alike have expressed their sorrow over his passing. The IMSS-Bienestar Hospital in Ometepec publicly mourned the loss on Facebook, offering condolences to his family, friends, and fellow Cuban Medical Brigade members.
Numerous tributes have poured in on social media. Luchya Cabrera, a user, noted that the hospital lost more than just a doctor; they lost a friend and a respected human being. She highlighted his humility, human quality, and dedication to service as reasons he earned the admiration of patients and staff alike.
The post emphasized how his medical practice transcended scientific knowledge, leaving each patient with hope, encouragement, and a promise of exceptional care.
Community Impact and Recollections
The unexpected death has deeply affected those who worked with him. Manuel Chacón described his compassionate work in the city, noting that his efforts were widely recognized both within the hospital and the broader community.
Expressions of grief were not limited to hospital staff. Many patients and residents of Ometepec flooded social media with farewell messages, fondly remembering Dr. Chacón for his approachable demeanor and dedication to each patient.
Rosario Cardona Vélez shared a personal story, recounting how she traveled from Acapulco to seek treatment for her son from the "Cuban doctor," and how he attended to her child even after his working hours.
Other patients lamented the loss of future appointments with him. "I can't believe it, I was due for a consultation soon," Rosita Oliva commented, while Conchis Maldonado expressed sadness over the absence of future meetings.
Many testimonials underscored not only his medical expertise but also his warmth. Comments like "excellent doctor," "very kind with patients," and "always had a comforting word" were common among those who knew him.
Arrival in Mexico and Program Controversy
According to Diario Alternativo, Chacón Bayard arrived in Ometepec in 2024 under a medical cooperation program between Cuba and Mexico, aiming to enhance healthcare in underserved areas.
Sadly, his death is not isolated among Cuban doctors participating in the IMSS-Bienestar program. Earlier, in January 2025, Dr. Asiel Pérez Rocillo died suddenly while working in Puebla, and later that year, Dr. Zunilda Torres Rodríguez also passed away unexpectedly in Veracruz, prompting the Cuban Embassy in Mexico to arrange for the repatriation of their remains.
The cooperation program, active since 2022, has faced scrutiny from international bodies. In April 2026, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights advised countries to reconsider such agreements, citing concerns over salary retention, movement restrictions, and potential violations of Cuban doctors' labor rights.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Doctors in Mexico
What was the cause of Dr. Eduardo Chacón Bayard's death?
The cause of death is not officially confirmed, but initial reports suggest it may have been due to natural causes, possibly a heart attack.
Why was Dr. Chacón Bayard in Mexico?
He was part of a medical cooperation program between Cuba and Mexico aimed at providing healthcare in areas with a scarcity of specialists.
What are the concerns about the Cuban-Mexican medical cooperation program?
The program has been criticized for potential labor rights violations, including salary retention and movement restrictions on Cuban doctors.