Cuba’s healthcare system is facing severe disruptions due to widespread shortages of electricity, fuel, medicine, and medical supplies, impacting essential services and patient care across the island nation. Edem Wosornu of the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) and Altaf Musani of the World Health Organization (WHO) briefed journalists on the critical situation following a three-day visit.
The officials described a healthcare system under immense pressure, with hospitals struggling to maintain basic functions amid escalating shortages and prolonged power outages. In some regions, blackouts lasting up to 20 hours have forced the suspension of non-emergency surgeries. Limited fuel supplies further restrict ambulance services, delaying access to critical medical attention.
More than 100,000 patients, including 11,000 children, are currently awaiting surgeries that have been postponed due to these power outages and supply chain issues. Additionally, approximately five million individuals living with chronic illnesses are at risk of interruptions to their life-sustaining treatments. This includes over 16,000 patients requiring radiation therapy and more than 12,000 undergoing chemotherapy.
“The human cost is significant and continues to grow,” stated Mr. Musani, highlighting the challenges faced by local clinics grappling with severe shortages of medical supplies and unstable electricity.
Maternal and Child Health Services Severely Affected
Maternal and neonatal care services are also experiencing significant impacts. Over 32,000 pregnant women face heightened risks due to restricted access to diagnostic tools, transportation, and the stable electricity necessary for critical neonatal equipment.
“Staff have to carry water up the stairs while women give birth since pumps don’t work,” Ms. Wosornu reported. She also noted that transportation disruptions are hindering the delivery of essential food items like vegetables and meat, contributing to inadequate nutrition for many pregnant women.
Increased Disease Risks Amidst Infrastructure Disruptions
Disruptions to water, sanitation, and refrigeration systems are escalating the risk of vector-borne and water-borne diseases, such as dengue and chikungunya. Routine immunization programs, while still operational, are under considerable strain due to cold chain interruptions, transportation limitations, and a lack of necessary supplies.
Ms. Wosornu characterized the situation as a complex crisis with growing humanitarian consequences that extend beyond traditional natural disaster responses.
Urgent Call for International Support
Despite the deteriorating conditions, OCHA and WHO officials commended the resilience of Cuban healthcare workers and communities, acknowledging their dedication in caring for patients amidst severe shortages and challenging circumstances.
“Life-saving aid must reach people without delays. Acting fast and working together is the only way to stop the situation from getting worse. We cannot afford another humanitarian crisis,” urged Ms. Wosornu, emphasizing the need for immediate and collaborative action.
