Health Care in Cuba

Cuba makes a successful effort in widespread and available health care. All Cubans recieve free medical care, regardless of socioeconomic standing. All areas of Cuba have doctors, whether urban or city. The ratio of doctors to Cubans is one doctor per 200 Cubans (The Cuban Experience, 1998). Much attention is devoted to the care of the children. Specifically affecting children is the emphasis on childhood vaccinations. Over nine out of ten one-year-olds are fully vaccinated, protecting them from diseases such as tuberculosis, polio, and measles (Green, 1998). These are impressive statistics considering Cuba's poor economic situation. In 1997 Cuba managed to rank second best among 78 developing nations using the Human Poverty Index. The Index blend is composed of literacy rates, life expectancy, access to health care and safe water, and the percentage of malnourished children. Maintaining health care has been an impressive feat considering their economy has diminished by a third since 1989. Many believe Cuba should be a positive model for other developing countries. Yet, it falls short when providing medications, even basic ones like insulin, aspirin, cold medication, and penicillin, to its people. Prescriptions, even over-the-counter drugs, are scarce and are therefore rationed. Imported medications and much needed medical equipment are not an option for Cuba as a result of restrictions mandated by the U.S. Trading with the Enemy Act in 1959. In response, Castro made an unsuccessful attempt informing an indigenous health industry. The state pharmacy rarely has medications available to the average Cuban. In order to cope, Cuba's health care approach not only includes equity, but also includes priority of care for vulnerable groups in society, like women, children, and the elderly. Overall, Cuba demonstrates devotion to its people, especially its children.

References

Garfield, R. & Santana, S. (1997, January). The impact of the economic crisis and the US embargo on health care in Cuba.

Green, D. (1998). Hidden Lives: Voices of children in Latin America and the Caribbean. London and Washington: Cassel