Dr. Alfredo Melgar has refuted circulating rumors suggesting that Cuban singer José Manuel Carvajal, widely known as El Taiger, might be taken off life support because he lacks medical insurance. El Taiger is currently in critical condition after suffering a gunshot wound to the head in Miami. "In U.S. hospitals, no patient is ever disconnected from artificial life support due to financial or immigration issues," stated Melgar. He further clarified that he has witnessed cases involving critically ill patients, including the homeless, international individuals, and those without insurance, who continue to receive medical care irrespective of their financial or immigration status.
Melgar emphasized to Martí Noticias, "No hospital will disconnect a patient based on these criteria, nor on immigration status. Everyone in the United States has the right to medical care." The incident involving El Taiger has galvanized the artistic community, prompting colleagues and fans to rally efforts to raise funds for his treatment at the Jackson Memorial Hospital. Singer Bebeshito has pledged to donate his share of the earnings from songs recorded with El Taiger to help cover medical expenses. Similarly, Mawell has expressed his support, encouraging others to contribute as well.
Community Rallies Amidst Legal and Ethical Concerns
These developments arose after social media speculations claimed the artist could be disconnected due to a lack of insurance. Another aspect under discussion is the potential outcome if El Taiger's condition doesn't improve, leaving him on life support without recovery prospects. In Florida, where he is hospitalized, laws permit certain protocols for making critical medical decisions if a designated representative isn't identified.
If El Taiger lacks a legal document appointing a medical representative, Florida law outlines a priority order for decision-making on his behalf. This includes court-appointed guardians, spouses, adult children, parents, siblings, and, if necessary, a close friend or social worker.
According to elTOQUE, if it is determined that El Taiger has suffered brain death, medical staff would have the authority to disconnect life support, as brain death is legally recognized as physical death in Florida. The musician was found last Thursday in the back of a vehicle with a gunshot wound to the forehead, which has severely damaged part of his brain, leaving him in critical condition.