Dr. Orlando Rigol Ricardo, celebrated for his extensive career and significant contributions to Gynecology and Obstetrics in Cuba and Latin America, and a mentor to multiple generations, passed away on July 25 at the age of 90, as announced in a condolence note by the Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP).
Born on February 28, 1934, in Holguín, Dr. Rigol Ricardo dedicated his life to medicine and the education of future physicians. He pursued his medical degree at the Calixto García General University Hospital, where, after graduating, he provided rural medical services.
In 1963, Dr. Rigol Ricardo graduated as a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, working in the maternity ward of the same hospital. His outstanding work earned him a position as a professor of the specialty at the North Maternity of Santiago de Cuba. He also served as a specialist in hospitals in Camagüey.
In November 1974, he became one of the pioneers in teaching Primary Health Care, a new paradigm in healthcare in Cuba. He worked at the Alamar Teaching Polyclinic, where he contributed to the training of new professionals.
Dr. Rigol Ricardo was a prolific researcher and academic, with numerous scientific works and an illustrious teaching career at the Eusebio Hernández Gyneco-Obstetric Hospital. He established the study programs for the subject and specialty of Gynecology and Obstetrics and directed the Cuban Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics for twelve years. Additionally, he was a long-time member of the national group of the specialty.
His influence extended beyond gynecology and obstetrics, as he was also a promoter of Natural and Traditional Medicine in Cuba, particularly in its application within his field of specialty.
Dr. Rigol Ricardo was a Full Professor and the principal author of the textbook editions for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in his specialty. His publications appeared in numerous national and international journals.
His legacy as a Master of Latin American Gynecology and Obstetrics and as a trainer of generations of doctors and specialists has been recognized in recent hours by some of his former students. “There were three books, three simple volumes we called 'the Rigol'. Everything was neatly packed, ready to consume. You just had to open it like a can of tuna that fills you up quickly and easily. Then there was Telinde and others. Readable books for daily use like fresh water. Rest in peace, professor. Thank you for everything,” wrote Dr. Pablo Monert on social media.
The physical departure of Dr. Orlando Rigol Ricardo leaves a tremendous void in the fields of teaching, assistance, and scientific research in Cuba in the area of Gynecology and Obstetrics.
Legacy of Dr. Orlando Rigol Ricardo in Gynecology and Obstetrics
To provide more insights into the life and contributions of Dr. Orlando Rigol Ricardo, here are some key questions and answers about his impactful career and legacy.
What were Dr. Rigol Ricardo's main contributions to Gynecology and Obstetrics?
Dr. Rigol Ricardo was instrumental in establishing the study programs for Gynecology and Obstetrics in Cuba and directed the Cuban Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics for twelve years. He was also a pioneer in teaching Primary Health Care and promoted Natural and Traditional Medicine in his field.
Where did Dr. Rigol Ricardo receive his medical education?
Dr. Rigol Ricardo studied medicine at the Calixto García General University Hospital in Havana, where he also provided rural medical services after graduating.
How did Dr. Rigol Ricardo impact his students and colleagues?
Dr. Rigol Ricardo was a mentor to multiple generations of doctors and specialists. His former students remember him fondly for his comprehensive textbooks and his dedication to teaching and mentoring.