A Cuban woman in Spain has sparked a heated debate on TikTok after sharing her personal experience with the Spanish public healthcare system. In her video, filmed from inside her car, she expresses her astonishment and gratitude regarding her first visit to public healthcare eight years ago, contrasting that experience with the reality of hospitals in Cuba.
"I am Cuban, living in Spain, and the first time I went to the public healthcare system in Spain, about eight years ago, I was really impressed," @susana.lavidaesuna recounts. What struck her most, she says, were the facilities, which she compared to "five-star hotels," and the digital organization of the system: "You had to insert your card into a machine that gave you your appointment and the floor of the hospital you needed to go to," and then, she explains, "your code would appear on the television, and you would enter the consultation you needed."
The user also praised the professionals in the system: "The doctors are incredible, very well-prepared, and the treatment is wonderful." And although she acknowledges that "there will be bad people, good people, some better prepared, some less prepared, just like anywhere in the world," she insists that her experience has been "marvelous." That's why she ends her video with a clear message: "I can only tell you to appreciate what you have."
But far from going unnoticed, his testimony unleashed a wave of comments—hundreds of them—many thanking him for his outside perspective, while others harshly criticized his viewpoint.
"Of course, if you compare it to Cuba, everything seems good, but you can't come here to idealize something that doesn't work like it used to," wrote a user. "Eight years ago, it was a different story. Nowadays, they give you an appointment for eight months later," added another. Dozens of Spanish internet users agreed that the deterioration of the system has been gradual but evident: long waiting lists, lack of staff, and progressive privatization are the main complaints.
"Before, you would leave the doctor's office with a diagnosis, tests, and treatment on the same day. Now it takes months," remarked a woman. Others questioned the political management: "The system isn't bad; they are letting it fall apart."
However, there were also understanding and grateful reactions. "Thank you for reminding us of what we have," wrote a Spaniard. Another commented, "I’m Venezuelan; it happened to me the same way when I arrived. The hospitals seemed like hotels." One user summarized, "It’s not perfect, but at least you don’t have to bring your own sheets."
The debate also left room for tensions regarding immigration, tax payments, and access to public services. Although the creator of the video did not engage in controversies, she did respond to several comments with courtesy and empathy: “That was my impression; everyone has different experiences.”
This testimony recalls other recent ones, such as that of the “Dr. Mulato” from Chile or that of the influencer Maryfra from Mexico, who also compared the healthcare in their host countries with what they left behind in Cuba.
The Cuban ends her video with an invitation to dialogue: "Do you really think that public health in Spain is bad? Let us know in the comments." And the comments, as we've seen, came in quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Public Health in Spain and Cuba
How does a Cuban compare her experience in the Spanish public healthcare system with that of Cuba?
A Cuban woman in Spain described her experience with the Spanish public healthcare system as "5-star hotels" in comparison to hospitals in Cuba. She emphasized the modern facilities, digital organization, and professional treatment as aspects that sharply contrast with the reality in Cuba, where basic supplies are often lacking and conditions are precarious.
What criticisms is the Spanish healthcare system currently facing?
The Spanish healthcare system is currently facing criticism due to long waiting lists, shortages of personnel, and progressive privatization. Although it was once considered very efficient, many users now complain about having to wait months to receive medical attention or diagnostic tests, a situation that has deteriorated the perception of the system among citizens.
What challenges do Cuban doctors face when validating their degrees in Spain?
Cuban doctors face a lengthy and complicated credentialing process in Spain, often extending over several years. Despite the law that establishes a maximum period of six months, in practice, the process is much slower, causing frustration among professionals who are waiting to practice their profession under more favorable conditions.
What is the current state of hospitals in Cuba according to recent testimonies?
Hospitals in Cuba are in precarious conditions, lacking basic supplies such as syringes and facing a deteriorated environment. Testimonials from citizens on social media describe the need to bring their own medical materials and the long waits for care, reflecting a deep crisis in the Cuban health system.
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