A young Cuban woman in Mexico has once again caught attention on social media by sharing her experience at a healthcare center in the country. In a video posted on TikTok, the user known as Maryfra praised the patient care protocols at Salud Digna, highlighting details that, she noted, make a significant difference compared to laboratories in Cuba.
"Today I came to Salud Digna to get laboratory tests done, and something I love is how careful they are with the details," she explained. @maryfra.21 described how they showed her the new needle before using it, how the container for her sample had her name and date of birth on it, and how after the procedure they put a band-aid on her instead of just cotton, "like they do in Cuba."
"To you, they may seem like simple things because you've seen them all your life, but for me, these details really catch my attention because they make me feel very calm and very confident," she said in her recorded testimony outside the medical center.
Reactions on social media: between praise, jokes, and comparisons
The video generated dozens of comments, many of which celebrated that a foreigner appreciates the Mexican system. "I'm glad you're happy in Mexico," wrote one user. Others added, "Thank you for valuing those things that many times we don't even notice ourselves."
However, there were also responses that questioned the generalization: “At the IMSS, they only give you a cotton ball,” commented one user, while another humorously noted, “Wow, you discovered something that's been done in any country for thousands of years.”
Jokes, compliments, and messages of support were also highlighted, along with comparisons to the Cuban reality. “In Cuba, we used to get jabbed with a wooden syringe,” recalled an internet user. Others emphasized the importance of “quality control” and adhering to basic biosecurity standards.
This is not the first time Maryfra has sparked conversation on social media about her healthcare experiences outside of Cuba. In February, she published another video after visiting the IMSS in Mexico with her mother, where she highlighted the cleanliness of the hospital and the organization of the appointment system, something that contrasted sharply with her experiences in her homeland. “There, it's difficult to find a specialist to see you; I don't know if it's because everyone has left the country,” she said at that time.
Other testimonies from Cubans abroad
The case of Maryfra adds to a growing list of Cubans who, from various countries, share their astonishment at the quality and access to healthcare services. Just a few days ago, a Cuban in Spain compared public hospitals to “five-star hotels”, highlighting the cleanliness and digital efficiency of the system. “All I can say is to appreciate what you have,” she expressed in her video.
Also in Chile, the Cuban influencer El Dr Mulato recently celebrated the birth of his daughter in the public system, showcasing the numerous free items he received from the state program. “Chile is the best, Cuba is nothing”, he said ironically, sparking a flood of reactions.
A recurring pattern
These often viral posts not only express the gratitude of those who have emigrated, but they also spark debates among citizens of the host countries, many of whom acknowledge that the comments from migrants help to appreciate services that are typically taken for granted.
At the same time, these testimonies reflect a deep gap in the conditions of the Cuban healthcare system, affected by structural deficiencies, a lack of personnel, and deteriorating infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Experience of Cubans in Foreign Health Systems
Why do Cubans emphasize healthcare in other countries so much?
Cuban émigrés often highlight the healthcare in other countries due to the significant differences with the Cuban health system, which faces shortages such as a lack of supplies, personnel, and a deteriorating infrastructure. Experiences in countries like Mexico, Spain, and the United States emphasize the organization, cleanliness, and patient care that many feel are lacking in Cuba.
What are the main differences that Cubans notice in foreign healthcare systems?
Among the main differences that Cubans notice are the cleanliness and organization of the facilities, the respectful and personalized treatment, and the availability of medical supplies. Furthermore, in many of these countries, patients can choose appointment times, and strict quality control and biosecurity measures are followed, aspects that contrast with the Cuban reality.
How do people on social media react to testimonies from Cubans about foreign healthcare systems?
Social media reactions are varied. On one hand, many people express admiration and gratitude for the testimonies that value the healthcare system in their countries, while others question the generalization of these experiences. There are also comments that highlight the shortcomings of the Cuban system, sparking debates about the quality of healthcare services in different contexts.
What impact do these testimonies have on the perception of health services in Cuba?
These testimonies often have a significant impact by highlighting the deficiencies of the Cuban healthcare system. When contrasted with positive experiences abroad, the need for structural improvements and the urgency to address the current shortcomings in Cuba become evident.
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