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The authorities arrested a nurse from the Celia Sánchez Manduley Hospital in Manzanillo, in the Granma province, who was caught in the act leaving the healthcare center with a load of medications and medical supplies stolen during her shift, according to sources linked to the Ministry of the Interior.
The news was published on the Facebook page "Entérate con Aytana Alama", one of the numerous profiles created by the Cuban regime to spread information on social networks, but it has not been confirmed by institutions or official media outlets.
According to the report, the hospital security staff and police officers caught the nurse as she was leaving the facility after her shift, "with a load of medications that she was apparently stealing, which were intended for (...) the patients she was supposed to care for."
In the photos of the post, medicines and supplies are shown that were allegedly seized from the health worker. Among them, omeprazole bulbs and vials of furosemide, dipyrone, and metoclopramide for injection; blister packs of tablets; dozens of disposable syringes, as well as additional equipment and bags of serum.
The profile did not identify the nurse, whom they referred to as a "faker" for diverting medications and supplies for illegal sale to the public, knowing that she was stealing them from the state and that "they were necessary for those who were hospitalized."
In addition, he described his behavior as "very unethical" and warned that "surely, it wasn't the first time he had done it."
The text demanded that the nurse "must be removed from her position in Healthcare, as well as penalized, since she jeopardized the health of sick individuals."
Without disregarding the responsibility that falls on the healthcare worker for her actions, several users mentioned in the comments the lack of control and oversight of resources by the management of health institutions, and even the complicity of several officials, which ultimately harms the patients.
In the midst of the severe crisis affecting the public healthcare system in Cuba, characterized among other shortages by the ongoing scarcity of medications, the theft and illegal sale of medications is a recurring issue. Numerous cases have come to light in recent years, highlighting the extent of this problem.
In March, authorities arrested a nurse from the emergency department of the Abel Santamaría Cuadrado Hospital in Pinar del Río, who was caught leaving the facility with stolen medications and medical supplies. A accomplice was also arrested, who was illegally selling the medications and materials on the black market.
The government dismantled a clandestine pharmacy in April that was operating in the municipality of Cumanayagua, in the province of Cienfuegos, where controlled medications were being sold.
During the recent sessions of the National Assembly, Cuba's Minister of Public Health, José Ángel Portal Miranda, acknowledged that the healthcare system is facing an unprecedented structural crisis, marked by a coverage of only 30% of the basic medicine supply and a widespread deterioration of medical services.
Frequently Asked Questions about Medication Theft in Cuba
Why was the nurse from the Celia Sánchez Manduley Hospital detained?
The nurse was arrested by authorities for being involved in the theft of medications and medical supplies from the hospital, which she allegedly intended for illegal sale instead of being used for the patients she was supposed to care for. She was caught red-handed leaving the hospital with a load of stolen drugs.
What is known about the medication crisis in Cuba?
Cuba is facing a severe crisis of medication shortages, impacting both chronic patients and those requiring urgent treatments. The Cuban public health system is characterized by a persistent shortage of medications, with coverage of only 30% of the basic drug list. The lack of essential supplies forces many Cubans to rely on the black market and donations from abroad.
What measures has the Cuban government taken regarding the issue of medication theft?
The Cuban government has intensified operations to combat illegal drug sales, dismantling clandestine pharmacies and arresting healthcare professionals involved in these crimes. However, corruption and lack of control within the healthcare system remain significant issues that contribute to the diversion of medical resources.
How does the theft of medical supplies affect patients in Cuba?
The theft of medical supplies exacerbates the already critical shortage situation in Cuban hospitals, leaving many patients without access to essential medications for their treatment. The removal of medications intended for hospitals directly impacts medical care and the health of the most vulnerable Cubans.
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