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In a year marked by a growing crisis in the Cuban healthcare system, the island lost a total of 13,303 doctors in 2023, representing a severe blow to the country's health infrastructure.
According to the Statistical Yearbook on Public Health and Social Assistance published by the National Office of Statistics and Information (ONEI), the number of doctors in Cuba fell from 94,066 in 2022 to 80,763 in 2023, highlighting a concerning exodus of healthcare professionals.
This exodus is not limited to doctors. The general healthcare staff in Cuba, which includes dentists, nurses, technicians, and other professionals in the field, has also experienced a significant decline, the state entity notes.
The total number of workers in the health sector reached 248,512 in 2023, detailing a decrease of 32,586 compared to the previous year, when the health staff numbered 281,098.
Among the most affected areas, nursing stands out with a deficit of 6,285 professionals, while dentistry experienced a decrease of 3,125 graduates. Additionally, the sector for technologists and other health graduates reported a drop of 6,191 compared to 2022, according to ONEI.
This exodus of professionals—many of whom have crossed borders—combined with the export of approximately 37,000 doctors to other countries in 2023, the lack of medical supplies, and the deterioration of hospital infrastructure has significantly diminished the quality of care in the country.
In 2023, the ratio of inhabitants per doctor reached 127 per physician, compared to 113 recorded in 2022. The actual number of available beds for medical care also declined, with only 38,483 beds in 2023, reflecting a decrease of 3,369 units compared to the previous year, according to the publication.
The health crisis has forced many Cubans to turn to the informal health market, where services that should be free are being charged. According to a survey by Cubadata conducted in 2023, 57.6% of the Cubans surveyed faced significant barriers to accessing medical care.
The export of doctors, many of whom go to other Latin American countries like Mexico, while being an important source of income for the Cuban regime, has left the local population in a desperate situation, with medical care becoming increasingly limited and expensive.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Health System Crisis in Cuba
How many doctors has Cuba lost in 2023?
Cuba lost a total of 13,303 doctors in 2023, representing a significant blow to the country's healthcare infrastructure. This loss is part of a broader crisis facing the Cuban health system.
How does the exportation of doctors affect the Cuban population?
The export of doctors, while generating income for the Cuban regime, leaves the local population in a desperate situation. The shortage of medical personnel, combined with a lack of supplies and the deterioration of hospital infrastructure, has significantly reduced the quality of healthcare on the island.
What is the current ratio of inhabitants per doctor in Cuba?
In 2023, the ratio of inhabitants per doctor in Cuba reached 127 for each physician, an increase from the 113 recorded in 2022. This figure reflects the growing difficulty in accessing adequate medical services in the country.
What are the consequences of the health crisis for Cubans?
The health crisis has compelled many Cubans to turn to the informal healthcare market, where they must pay for services that should be free. The shortage of doctors, lack of supplies, and the deterioration of medical facilities have left the population in a vulnerable situation.
Which health sectors in Cuba have been most affected by the loss of personnel?
The most affected health sectors in Cuba include nursing, which has a shortage of 6,285 professionals, and dentistry, which has seen a decrease of 3,125 licensed practitioners. These shortages are part of a widespread loss of personnel within the country's healthcare system.
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