Amid a worsening health crisis on the island, Cubans are reporting the deplorable conditions and lack of resources at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, which is struggling to handle the influx of patients. Journalist Yosmany Mayeta Labrada posted images on his Facebook page sent by one of those affected by the situation.
The individual, who requested anonymity, recounted that a family member arrived at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital with shortness of breath, but there were no oxygen tanks available as they were reserved for severe cases. They also described the observation ward as being overrun, filled with flies, and lacking beds and air conditioning, despite the ongoing Oropouche fever and dengue outbreaks in the region.
"It is heartbreaking to see everything in such a dilapidated state, the immense filth in that hospital, and the complete lack of resources for us. It’s all a facade. May God protect us from diseases," commented a local resident.
Despite these complaints, Manuel Falcón Hernández, the provincial governor, boasted on Facebook about the renovation of the emergency service facilities at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital. According to Falcón, this construction work will "provide a more comfortable and functional space for patients requiring medical attention."
However, a nurse consulted by CiberCuba, who also wished to remain anonymous, explained that they are currently forced to use washed gloves that are not sterilized. She mentioned that she has even seen doctors performing procedures without gloves due to the shortage of this essential supply.
"There are no cephalosporins or meropenem, two of the most important antibiotics. At the moment, there is neither dipyrone nor diclofenac. We are also lacking gastric protectors," she stated, emphasizing that while renovations are important, so are these medications.
It recently emerged that, in addition to the shortage of medicines and medical supplies, and the lack of staff, workers at the Tamara Bunke Maternal and Child Hospital, also in Santiago de Cuba, are required to work 12-hour shifts with only a plate of white rice, according to a technician who reported the situation.
On Facebook, Mayeta echoed the complaint of a worker at the Maternal and Child Hospital, who warned that currently, only white rice is provided for lunch, with no other accompaniments. The person who made the complaint, who preferred to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals, explained that they faced an unfair work sanction because the administration requires them to wear shoes and socks, which are not provided by the hospital and cannot be bought with such a low salary.
"They are issuing fines of 100 and even 400 pesos," she added, finding it contradictory that so much is demanded from them when their department doesn’t even provide a fan, and they suffocate from the heat.
Recently, the regime in Santiago de Cuba faced criticism for prioritizing repairs in certain areas of another hospital while significant issues, such as the shortage of medical supplies and medications, remain unresolved.
Health Crisis in Santiago de Cuba: Frequently Asked Questions
In light of the severe health crisis reported at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital, here are some frequently asked questions to provide more context and information on the situation.
What are the main issues reported at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital?
The main issues include a lack of oxygen tanks, overcrowded observation wards, poor sanitation, and a shortage of essential medical supplies and medications.
What renovations were recently boasted about by the provincial governor?
Governor Manuel Falcón Hernández highlighted the renovation of the emergency service facilities at the Saturnino Lora Provincial Hospital, claiming it would provide a more comfortable and functional space for patients.
What are the working conditions for staff at the Tamara Bunke Maternal and Child Hospital?
Staff at the Tamara Bunke Maternal and Child Hospital are reportedly required to work 12-hour shifts with only a plate of white rice for food, and face unjust sanctions for not having proper attire which the hospital does not provide.