Mexico has announced plans to increase the number of Cuban doctors working in the country to 3,800, despite the ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals in the Caribbean island. This initiative is part of the IMSS-Bienestar program, aimed at improving medical care in 23 Mexican states.
Zoé Robledo Aburto, director of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and head of IMSS-Bienestar, stated in an interview with the leftist newspaper La Jornada that the new organization faces significant challenges in ensuring the operation of medical services and providing quality, free healthcare to users. Robledo emphasized that one of the main obstacles is filling specialist doctor positions in hospitals.
This issue will be partially addressed with the arrival of the Cuban doctors, who will join the 1,200 already working in health centers and hospitals serving people without social security, he noted. Last week, it was announced that an additional 2,700 doctors would leave the island to join the 1,200 already assisting in Mexican hospitals.
Robledo argued that the expanded agreement between Mexico and Cuba will allow a total of 3,800 Cuban doctors to offer their services in the country. This move has sparked criticism due to the severe shortage of medical personnel in Cuba, where the lack of medical staff significantly impacts the local population.
The Havana regime relies on income from medical missions, and Mexico has been a supportive ally of the government led by Miguel Díaz-Canel. This support includes not only sending fuel and humanitarian aid but also agreements such as the purchase of stone for the Maya train and the hiring of Cuban doctors.
FAQs on Mexico's Hiring of Cuban Doctors
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding Mexico's decision to hire Cuban doctors and the implications for both countries.
Why is Mexico hiring Cuban doctors?
Mexico is hiring Cuban doctors to fill the gap in specialist positions within its healthcare system, particularly in hospitals serving people without social security.
How many Cuban doctors are currently working in Mexico?
There are currently 1,200 Cuban doctors working in Mexico, with plans to increase this number to 3,800.
What are the criticisms surrounding this decision?
Critics argue that hiring Cuban doctors exacerbates the healthcare professional shortage in Cuba, negatively affecting the local population.