No one believed he would survive, but Migue has been holding on for 9 months in a hospital in Havana

Migue's story is moving, but it is used by official spokespersons as a propaganda showcase to exalt a collapsed healthcare system that survives despite its own deterioration.

Migue, a burn patient, alongside the staff caring for him in HavanaPhoto © Collage Facebook / Cutting-Edge Logistics

The young patient, a victim of a severe electric shock, has been admitted for nine months in the burn unit of the "Dr. Luis Díaz Soto" military hospital, known as "el Naval."

Several profiles aligned with the government, such as “Marcos Antonio Noticia” and “Logística de Vanguardia”, shared Migue’s story this Monday with a celebratory tone, highlighting his medical progress as a symbol of the commitment and capability of the Cuban healthcare system.

Facebook Capture / Cutting-edge Logistics

According to reports, Migue is experiencing severe aftereffects from a complex electrical burn and has been receiving continuous care in the hospital's Burn Unit, supported by a multidisciplinary team.

The process has involved multiple surgical interventions, intensive care, and emotional support from the healthcare staff.

Facebook Capture / Marcos Antonio News

The texts highlight the role of medical professionals, whom they refer to as “Zealous Guardians,” and affirm that “every day is a victory,” alluding to the patient’s gradual progress, who has remained stable despite the initial severity of the clinical situation.

Although the testimony is undoubtedly moving, the narrative treatment given by actors connected to the regime seeks to present this story as evidence of the success of the Cuban healthcare system, which is currently experiencing a deep crisis due to a lack of resources, structural deterioration, frequent blackouts, and a shortage of staff.

The speech highlights the work of the multidisciplinary team of the Burn and Therapy Service at the hospital, whom they refer to as "Zealous Guardians."

It speaks of "an act of love," "a network of support," and "a bastion of humanity," in a tone clearly aimed at reinforcing the official narrative on social media.

However, this propagandistic use contrasts sharply with the harsh reality faced by the healthcare system in Cuba: shortage of essential medications, absent surgical supplies, power outages affecting hospitals, deterioration of medical infrastructure, and a sustained brain drain of personnel to abroad.

Migue's story, however, goes beyond any attempt at political instrumentalization.

It represents a genuine medical effort, the struggle of a person to survive, and the dedication of professionals who often work under extremely difficult conditions.

That is the human dimension that deserves to be told without embellishments or slogans.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Healthcare System Crisis in Cuba

What is the current situation of the healthcare system in Cuba?

The Cuban healthcare system is facing a deep crisis due to the lack of resources, deterioration of medical infrastructure, shortage of personnel, and frequent blackouts that impact the functioning of hospitals. Despite some remarkable individual medical efforts, the overall situation remains precarious and jeopardizes appropriate patient care.

How is the official narrative regarding the healthcare system in Cuba managed?

The official narrative attempts to present individual cases of medical success as examples of the commitment and capability of the Cuban health system. However, these stories are often used to reinforce the regime's propaganda, contrasting with the harsh reality faced by most hospitals in the country, where the lack of supplies and resources is evident.

What challenges do healthcare professionals in Cuba face?

Healthcare professionals in Cuba work under extremely difficult conditions, facing shortages of essential medical supplies, blackouts that disrupt critical procedures, and deteriorating medical infrastructure. Despite these challenges, many doctors and nurses continue to make extraordinary efforts to provide care for their patients.

Are there examples of medical improvisation in Cuba due to a lack of resources?

Yes, there are examples of medical improvisation in Cuba due to the lack of adequate supplies. A recent case at the hospital in Camagüey involved the use of buttons to treat a patient with a colostomy, as there were no sutures available. This type of improvised solution reflects the critical situation of the healthcare system in the country.

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CiberCuba Editorial Team

A team of journalists committed to reporting on Cuban current affairs and topics of global interest. At CiberCuba, we work to deliver truthful news and critical analysis.