Cuba’s healthcare system took a severe hit in 2023 as the country saw a significant reduction in its medical workforce, losing a total of 13,303 doctors. This decline poses a serious challenge to the nation's already strained healthcare infrastructure.
According to the Statistical Yearbook on Public Health and Social Assistance released by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), the number of doctors in Cuba dropped from 94,066 in 2022 to just 80,763 in 2023. This alarming trend highlights a troubling exodus of healthcare professionals from the island.
The issue extends beyond physicians alone. The overall healthcare workforce in Cuba, which includes dentists, nurses, technicians, and other licensed professionals, has also experienced a noteworthy reduction, as reported by the state entity.
In 2023, the total number of healthcare workers fell to 248,512, a decrease of 32,586 compared to the previous year's figure of 281,098. Among the most impacted areas is nursing, which faced a shortage of 6,285 professionals, and dentistry, which saw 3,125 fewer licensed practitioners. Additionally, the sector involving technologists and other healthcare professionals reported a decline of 6,191 compared to 2022, according to ONEI.
This mass departure of professionals—many departing the country entirely—combined with the exportation of approximately 37,000 doctors to other nations in 2023, a lack of medical supplies, and deteriorating hospital infrastructure, has significantly diminished the quality of care available in Cuba.
In 2023, there were 127 residents for every doctor, compared to 113 per doctor in 2022. The number of hospital beds available for medical care also decreased, with only 38,483 beds in 2023, representing a reduction of 3,369 from the previous year, the publication notes.
The healthcare crisis has compelled many Cubans to turn to the informal healthcare market, where services that should be free come with a cost. A 2023 survey conducted by Cubadata revealed that 57.6% of respondents faced significant challenges in accessing medical care.
While the export of doctors, many to other Latin American countries such as Mexico, serves as an essential revenue source for the Cuban regime, it leaves the local population in dire straits, with medical attention becoming increasingly scarce and expensive.
Impact of Doctor Exodus on Cuba's Healthcare System
What is the main reason for the exodus of doctors from Cuba?
The main reasons for the exodus include seeking better opportunities abroad, challenging working conditions in Cuba, and the exportation of doctors to fulfill international agreements.
How has the loss of healthcare professionals affected patient care in Cuba?
The reduction in healthcare professionals has led to increased patient-to-doctor ratios, longer wait times, and diminished access to necessary medical services.
What measures are Cubans taking to cope with the healthcare crisis?
Many Cubans are turning to informal health markets where they pay for services that should be free, due to the limitations within the official healthcare system.