In Santiago de Cuba, a mother reported that the driver of a state-owned vehicle refused to transport her critically ill young daughter. The incident came to light through independent journalist Yosmany Mayeta, who shared the story on his Facebook profile.
According to the mother's account, the girl was at the Hospital Infantil Norte in Santiago de Cuba. Due to the severity of her condition, she needed to be urgently transferred to Hospital Infantil Sur Dr. Antonio María Béguez César, commonly known as "La Colonia."
Challenges in Cuban Healthcare and Transportation
In Cuban hospitals, ambulance services are practically non-existent, and taxis are prohibitively expensive for many people. Even those who can afford them often find them hard to come by. The mother sought help from a state-owned vehicle, but the driver refused to assist.
Mayeta shared details of the implicated vehicle, with the license plate B 225 732, and expressed his outrage over the lack of solidarity in such a critical moment. He also recalled a similar incident that occurred weeks earlier, where several private cars refused to help a woman struggling in the water at Playa Bueycabón, leading to her death.
The case has sparked significant concern in the community, especially since state-owned vehicles in Cuba are mandated to pick up and transport passengers due to the ongoing transportation crisis and fuel shortages. "The car doesn't belong to him; it belongs to the people," emphasized the journalist, urging authorities to take immediate action to prevent such situations from happening again.
Frequently Asked Questions about Transportation Issues in Cuba
The incident has raised several questions about transportation challenges and healthcare in Cuba. Below are some frequently asked questions to provide more context and information.
Why are ambulance services nearly non-existent in Cuba?
Ambulance services in Cuba suffer from severe resource shortages, including a lack of vehicles and fuel. This has led to a near-collapse of emergency medical transport services.
Are state-owned vehicles required to assist in emergencies?
Yes, state-owned vehicles in Cuba are mandated to assist and transport passengers during emergencies due to the ongoing transportation crisis and fuel shortages.
What are the consequences for drivers who refuse to assist in emergencies?
The consequences can vary, but there have been calls for stricter enforcement and penalties for drivers who refuse to assist in emergencies, given the critical nature of such situations.