A private pharmacy in Havana offers medications, vitamins, and natural products at prices reaching up to 2,000 Cuban pesos. Despite these costs, employees claim they also provide free medicines to the elderly and vulnerable individuals unable to afford them.
Preval Official, a well-known YouTuber, highlighted this business by visiting the establishment, inquiring about various products, and speaking with Mayra Morales, a pharmacy attendant, about the business operations and potential expansion plans.
During his visit, the content creator specifically asked about children's cephalexin, with a staff member confirming its availability for 2,000 CUP. The medication was sold in powder form for suspension preparation.
Products and Pricing
Footage from the visit shows other items with prices labeled on their packaging. These include nystatin for 1,200 CUP, folic acid syrup for 1,800 CUP, diphenhydramine for 1,800 CUP, bromhexine for 2,000 CUP, and Bronfarme syrup for 2,000 CUP. Additionally, an oral solution for allergies is priced at 1,000 CUP, along with Jupin lotion at the same price.
The pharmacy also offers various teas and natural medicine products. As shown in the video, tea is priced at 100 CUP, while vitamins and supplements range from 2,000 to 3,000 CUP.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
Morales explained that while not all products are free, there are initiatives to assist vulnerable populations. "We provide medications for the elderly, vulnerable individuals, retirement homes, and maternity homes," she stated.
She added that free medications are occasionally given to those in need, though she emphasized that the pharmacy primarily operates on a commercial basis. "No, it's not free," she clarified when asked if all products were given at no cost.
The establishment also markets natural medicine products targeting issues such as circulation, arthritis, and prostate conditions.
Looking to the Future
During the recording, Morales announced a future expansion of the pharmacy. She detailed that by August 14, 2026, the establishment is expected to grow as part of a project under governmental scrutiny and approval.
The YouTuber further mentioned that this expansion would mark the beginning of the "official segment of the private pharmacy."
Understanding Private Pharmacies in Cuba
The emergence of these pharmacies follows the Cuban government's authorization for private micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and non-agricultural cooperatives to offer pharmaceutical services under Decree 160/2026.
Implemented on August 4, this regulation transformed pharmaceuticals from a prohibited sector to a conditionally permitted service.
Opening a pharmacy is not automatic; each must receive prior approval from the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), employ qualified pharmaceutical personnel, maintain proper storage conditions, and sell medications registered in Cuba.
No initial restrictions exist on who can purchase from these pharmacies; they can sell to the general public within authorized health guidelines.
Unlike subsidized state pharmacies, private entities set their own prices, offering an alternative to those who can afford it, but excluding many retirees, chronic patients, and low-income families from medications costing thousands of pesos.
Decree 160 also partially allows private pharmaceutical manufacturing, previously entirely off-limits. However, this requires MINSAP approval and collaboration with the state biopharmaceutical industry, ensuring the state retains significant control over this area.
Importantly, this does not indicate a shift to private medical practice in Cuba. The decree reserves professional health and dental services for the National Health System while permitting authorized pharmaceutical, optical, and care activities.
Regulatory bodies had seven days from the decree's publication to establish necessary procedures, requirements, and supervision mechanisms before the regulation took effect on August 4.
This development occurs amidst severe medication shortages in the state network. President Miguel Díaz-Canel recently acknowledged that only 30% of essential medicines are available, indicating a shortage of about 70% of crucial drugs.
Díaz-Canel also admitted to shortages impacting treatments, surgeries, and other health services.
FAQs About Private Pharmacies in Cuba
What is the pricing model for private pharmacies in Havana?
Private pharmacies in Havana set their own prices, which can be significantly higher than state-subsidized pharmacies, making them accessible primarily to those who can afford them.
How do private pharmacies in Cuba support vulnerable populations?
Some private pharmacies offer free medications to the elderly and vulnerable individuals who cannot afford them, although this is not their standard operating procedure.
What regulations govern the operation of private pharmacies in Cuba?
Private pharmacies must obtain prior authorization from the Ministry of Public Health, employ qualified staff, and adhere to storage and sale regulations for registered medications.
Does the introduction of private pharmacies indicate a shift towards privatized healthcare in Cuba?
No, the decree allowing private pharmacies does not permit private medical practice, as healthcare services remain under the National Health System's control.