For the first time, the young Cuban Maryfra visited a healthcare facility in Mexico and was surprised by the conditions of the place. Accustomed to the reality of hospitals in Cuba, the young woman, who according to her profile information lives in Quintana Roo, highlighted the cleanliness of the facilities and the organization of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), where she took her mother to be discharged.
"I had never been to a health center here in Mexico. If you notice, behind me is the IMSS, and due to the health issues my mom is currently experiencing, I'm paying for her insurance, and today we had to come to get her discharged," she explained in a video posted on TikTok (@maryfraaventuras).
What struck her the most was the condition of the bathrooms, something she did not expect in a public hospital. "We were really surprised that, despite being a public place, it is so clean. The bathroom has toilet paper; everything is in good condition. You don't see dirt or stuff lying on the floor," she recounted. "That made me very happy, knowing that my mom is receiving care in a public place that is in such good condition. It makes me feel confident and very good."
Soon after, Maryfra shared another video where she discussed another difference between healthcare centers in Mexico and Cuba: the organization of consultations. She explained that her mother was given the option to choose the time slot for her appointment. "She was allowed to choose whether she wanted to go in the morning or the afternoon. My mom chose the morning slot. I found it quite striking, as it's not like that in Cuba," she stated.
The influencer pointed out that, in her home country, finding a specialist is complicated. "It’s hard to find a specialist to attend to you; I don’t know if it’s because everyone has left the country. Sometimes you go to the appointment and the specialists aren’t there," she explained. She also mentioned that the organization in Mexico seemed much more structured, in contrast to what she experienced in Cuba. "It’s not that there is any organization there; there is no organization."
After completing the procedure, she mentioned that they were happy that their mother was already discharged and now they just had to decide how to access the medical appointment. "I don't know what you all recommend, what you think is better based on your experience: should we come and line up at three in the morning, or should we book the appointment through IMSS digital?" she asked her followers.
The videos generated thousands of reactions and sparked a debate between Mexicans and Cubans. For some, the testimony reflects the positives of the IMSS and the importance of valuing what one has. "Someone from outside had to come for us to appreciate what we have," wrote a user. Another compared the situation to that in other countries: "Everyone complains about the IMSS, but I wish they lived in other countries, including the United States, where just for a cold you can end up in lifelong debt."
Others, however, pointed out that Maryfra's experience is not representative of all IMSS hospitals. "Which clinic did you go to? Because in mine, there's not even paper, and the restrooms are always dirty," commented one user. Another person criticized the slowness of the system: "It's not bad, but it is very slow. Between appointments and tests, you can take months to receive an accurate diagnosis."
With the viral spread of her second video, many reactions focused on the comparison with Cuba and the appointment process at IMSS. "It's hard to believe that someone praises how IMSS is managed," wrote one user incredulously. Others made jokes about the wait time to get an appointment with a specialist: "Just wait until you try to book an appointment; they’ll give you one for 2030."
Some questioned how a foreigner can access the service, prompting clarifying responses. "The IMSS is not a public hospital as such; it is for workers who contribute. If you don't work for a company, you have to pay separately," explained a user. Another added, "Not even those of us born here have insurance, but it's great that she was able to pay for her mother."
Comparisons with Cuba were inevitable. "If you consider the IMSS clean and efficient, how must hospitals be in Cuba?" wrote an internet user. Another commented, "Here people complain, but if they saw what it’s like to rely on a hospital in Havana, they would understand the difference."
Regarding the appointment process, several users recommended using the IMSS Digital app to avoid long waits. "Make your appointment online; it's much easier and faster," suggested one follower. Others, however, insisted that arriving early to queue is still the best option in some cases. "If you want a quick consultation, you do need to queue; if it’s not urgent for you, book through the app," explained another user.
Some comments highlighted that medical care at IMSS varies depending on the clinic and the city. "Some hospitals are good, while others are in terrible condition. It all depends on where you are assigned," noted one user. Another mentioned their own positive experience: "I've been having monthly appointments for two years, and there are always appointments, and I always receive tests, medications, and follow-ups on my health."
This is not the first testimony from the Cuban influencer that generates debate on social media. Recently, she responded to criticism about her presence in Mexico, stating that she works, studies, pays taxes, and plans to open a business in the country. On that occasion, she received both messages of support and questions regarding the impact of migration.
The viral spread of his video has reopened the discussion about the healthcare system in Mexico. While some highlight its accessibility and equipment, others believe it still has many deficiencies. His testimony, however, has prompted many to reflect on the differences in healthcare services across various countries.
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