In addition to the scarcity of medicines and medical supplies, and the lack of staff, workers at the Maternal North Hospital Tamara Bunke in Santiago de Cuba are required to work 12-hour shifts with only a plate of white rice, according to a technician's report.
On Facebook, journalist Yosmany Mayeta echoed the complaint of a worker from the Maternal North Hospital, who warned that they are currently only offered white rice for lunch, with no other accompaniment. "And it's the entire week," the woman emphasized, suggesting that the issue is long-standing and the hospital's administration has not provided any solution.
This precarious situation, which affects their work performance, is compounded by a salary of just 2,700 pesos, the woman explained. She hinted that, in addition to the insufficient pay, she could not afford to bring her own lunch to the hospital.
The person who made the complaint, who chose to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals, explained that she was unfairly sanctioned because the administration requires her to wear shoes and socks, which are not provided by the hospital, and she cannot purchase them with such a low salary. "They are issuing fines of 100 to 400 pesos," the woman added, finding it contradictory that they demand so much when the administration does not even provide a fan for their department, leaving them to suffer in the heat.
Government Prioritizes Cosmetic Repairs Over Essential Supplies
Recently, the regime in Santiago de Cuba was criticized for prioritizing repairs in some areas of another hospital, while significant issues such as the shortage of medical supplies and medications remain unresolved.
Manuel Falcón Hernández, the province's governor, boasted on Facebook about the refurbishment of the emergency service areas at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital, a construction project that, according to him, will "provide a more comfortable and functional space for patients who need medical attention." However, a nurse consulted by CiberCuba, who also chose to remain anonymous, explained that they are currently forced to use washed gloves that are not sterilized. She has even seen doctors perform procedures without gloves due to the lack of this essential supply in the healthcare center.
"There are no cephalosporins or meropenem, two of the most important antibiotics. There is also no dipyrone or diclofenac at the moment. Gastric protectors are missing," she pointed out, stressing that while repairs are important, so are these medications.
Current Challenges Faced by Hospitals in Santiago de Cuba
The following questions and answers provide insights into the ongoing issues faced by hospitals in Santiago de Cuba, focusing on the lack of essential supplies and the impact on healthcare workers.
What are the current working conditions for healthcare workers in Santiago de Cuba's hospitals?
Healthcare workers are experiencing extreme conditions, including 12-hour shifts with only a plate of white rice for nourishment, insufficient salaries, and a lack of basic supplies like gloves and essential medications.
How has the government responded to the hospital supply shortages?
The government has focused on cosmetic repairs in certain hospital areas, while significant issues like the shortage of medical supplies and medications remain largely unaddressed.
What specific medical supplies are currently lacking in these hospitals?
Hospitals are currently lacking crucial antibiotics such as cephalosporins and meropenem, as well as pain relievers like dipyrone and diclofenac, and gastric protectors.