Cuban Doctor in Spain Celebrates Medical Degree Accreditation: "The Best End-of-Year Gift"

Securing official recognition for higher education qualifications in a foreign country can be a daunting task, and for Cuban doctors in Spain, it often becomes an endless struggle. This was the journey of @wlenda.5, who, after two and a half years of anticipation, finally achieved accreditation as a licensed medical doctor. She expressed her joy on social media, calling it "the best end-of-year gift."

"It's been a long, very long journey, but now I'm officially a licensed doctor across the nation. I can't quite describe what I'm feeling; maybe it's happiness... This is a whole new level. I'm thrilled, thrilled, thrilled," she excitedly shared upon receiving the email confirming her accreditation. The process involved rigorous checks at her university and numerous administrative hurdles. "Everything was verified, absolutely everything, but now it's official. Before 2025 even began, I have my accreditation. I'm immensely grateful to God, to life, and to the luck I've had," she added.

According to her experience, meticulous preparation of all necessary documentation is crucial, including the degree, transcript certification, and course outline, among others. Later, in another video, she offered guidance for other Cuban doctors embarking on the same journey.

The Struggle for Cuban Doctors in Spain

@wlenda.5 is not alone in facing this challenge, as the accreditation process for Cuban doctors in Spain can span years, despite laws stating a six-month maximum for resolving cases. This issue gained attention this year after Cuban medical associations reported irregularities and staged protests outside the Spanish Congress in Madrid.

In September, Fátima Matute, Health Counselor for the Community of Madrid, urged the Spanish government to expedite these accreditations, emphasizing that the shortage of medical professionals severely impacts the healthcare system. She noted that Cuban doctors possess a robust and consistent education, which should streamline the process. However, many endure long waits, forcing them to take unrelated jobs.

Echoes of Support and Frustration

The story of @wlenda.5 struck a chord with many on social media, who congratulated her and shared their own experiences. "Congratulations, colleague, I've been waiting for three years, one month, and 24 days, but I'm so happy for you," one user commented, while another shared, "Congratulations, I've been waiting for a year and four months and still can't open the resolution." Another user added, "I'm waiting too, nearing three years. This is so unfair."

Some who had completed the process shared their joy, reminiscing about those moments. "I understand because I felt the same when I received my accreditation"; "It's the best end-of-year gift, congratulations"; "I've been waiting since May 2022, but seeing you gives me hope." Even a future physiotherapist wrote, "Your video inspired me, I'm starting my process."

Hope and Determination Amidst Challenges

Among the congratulations were reflections on the tough road many endure. "Only Cubans know what this wait feels like"; "It took me 33 months, but I know exactly what you're feeling now"; "It's a long process, but it's worth it when this day finally arrives."

Despite the obstacles, stories like @wlenda.5's offer motivation to Cuban professionals still awaiting their accreditations. As she puts it, "For my colleagues going through accreditation, when your day comes, you'll feel just like I do. I'm happy, happy, happy. All the hard work and bitter moments are worth it when this moment finally arrives."