Reports of a lack of medical equipment and mistreatment of patients at the Psychiatric Hospital in Guantánamo have emerged

The translation of "hacer" is "to do" or "to make."

Hospital Psiquiátrico de Guantánamo © Guantanamo.gob.cu
Guantánamo Psychiatric HospitalPhoto © Guantanamo.gob.cu

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The mother of a patient admitted to the "Luis Ramírez López" Psychiatric Hospital in Guantánamo reported the situation caused by the lack of medical equipment in the facility.

The complaint, posted on Facebook by activist Irma Broek, states that the (TAC) Electroshock equipment used in electroconvulsive therapy for patients experiencing crises has been broken for several months.

Facebook Capture / Irma Broek

According to the complainant, the prolonged absence of appropriate therapy has affected the attitude of both the inmates and the healthcare workers.

"Their behavior is aggressive; [the patients] attack each other, and the response from the staff responsible for their care is equally aggressive," she explains.

The post includes photos of the injuries sustained by the patients due to the blows.

The author of the letter explained that on several occasions they have sought help from the minister of health, because both the patients and their families suffer, seeing them so vulnerable and unable to receive the appropriate treatment to alleviate the severity of their symptoms.

"However, their response has been negative, citing a lack of resources for the repair of the equipment. 'Please, they are human beings who, although they are sick, still feel pain,' she emphasized."

Frequently Asked Questions about the situation of the Psychiatric Hospital of Guantánamo and the health crisis in Cuba

What is the situation at the Psychiatric Hospital in Guantánamo?

The "Luis Ramírez López" Psychiatric Hospital in Guantánamo is facing a severe shortage of medical equipment, such as electroconvulsive therapy devices, which impacts patient treatment and creates an atmosphere of aggression among both patients and staff. Reports also include allegations of physical mistreatment of patients.

What problems do psychiatric hospitals in Cuba face?

Psychiatric hospitals in Cuba, such as those in Camagüey and Guantánamo, face shortages of medications, deteriorating facilities, and a lack of staff. These shortcomings result in inadequate treatments and mistreatment of patients, who are often subjected to inhumane and hazardous conditions.

Why are mistreatments reported in Cuban hospitals?

Reports of mistreatment in Cuban hospitals have emerged due to a lack of resources, trained personnel, and appropriate conditions to care for patients. These shortcomings impact the quality of medical care, particularly in psychiatric centers where the situation is more critical.

How does the health crisis in Cuba affect the most vulnerable patients?

The health crisis in Cuba severely impacts patients with mental disorders, who lack essential medication and face precarious conditions in hospitals. The absence of adequate treatment exacerbates their symptoms and increases the risk of abuse and medical negligence.

What measures have the Cuban authorities taken in response to the health crisis?

Cuban authorities have acknowledged the shortage of medications and supplies, but the proposed solutions have been insufficient. The management and prioritization of resources continue to face criticism, while public complaints from citizens in search of adequate care are increasing.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists dedicated to reporting on current events in Cuba and issues of global interest. At CiberCuba, we strive to provide accurate news and critical analysis.