The government of Mexico is continuing to finance the Cuban regime by hiring 363 Cuban doctors who recently arrived in the country. This agreement has sparked controversy due to the crisis of healthcare professionals in the Caribbean nation.
The Embassy of Cuba in Mexico announced on Facebook that last Friday, 182 Cuban specialist doctors arrived via Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA), located in Zumpango, in the State of Mexico, approximately 45 kilometers north of Mexico City. “They will collaborate with their Mexican colleagues to provide healthcare to the most needy in seven states of the country,” the Cuban diplomatic mission boasted on the social network.
Similarly, the Embassy of Cuba in Mexico noted on Facebook that on Saturday, another 181 doctors arrived and were assigned to nine states in the country.
The arrival of these new Cuban doctors fulfills an announcement made by Mexico last July, when it stated that it would increase the number of contracted doctors to 3,800 to work in the country. This measure is part of the IMSS-Bienestar program, which aims to improve medical care in 23 Mexican states.
Zoé Robledo Aburto, director of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and responsible for the consolidation of IMSS-Bienestar, affirmed in an interview with the leftist newspaper La Jornada that this new organization faces significant challenges in ensuring the operation of medical services and guaranteeing that users receive quality and free care.
The regime in Havana needs income that was previously provided in large amounts by medical missions, and Mexico has been an ally and supporter of the government led by Miguel Díaz-Canel. This support comes not only through the shipment of fuel and humanitarian aid but also through agreements such as the hiring of doctors.
However, earlier this month, the health councilor in Ayotoxco de Guerrero, in the Mexican state of Puebla, ordered the arrest of two recently arrived Cuban doctors who were to provide services at the community hospital in that rural population. According to a video released by the local press, the official "mistook" the doctors for “criminals” and, supported by a patrol, took them to the Municipal Palace, where they were unjustifiably detained but were later released.
Questions About Mexico Hiring Cuban Doctors
This section addresses some common questions and concerns regarding the recent hiring of Cuban doctors by Mexico and the implications it has on both countries.
Why is Mexico hiring Cuban doctors?
Mexico is hiring Cuban doctors to address the shortage of healthcare professionals and improve medical care in underserved regions of the country as part of the IMSS-Bienestar program.
What is the IMSS-Bienestar program?
The IMSS-Bienestar program is an initiative aimed at improving healthcare services in 23 states across Mexico by employing more medical professionals and enhancing the quality and accessibility of medical care.
How has the Cuban government benefited from this agreement?
The Cuban government has benefited financially from this agreement, as the income from medical missions helps support the regime, especially during economic crises.
Why were Cuban doctors arrested in Puebla?
The arrest of Cuban doctors in Puebla was due to a misunderstanding by a local official who mistakenly identified them as criminals, leading to their temporary detention.