In the midst of a severe pharmaceutical shortage and ongoing requests for humanitarian visas to treat patients abroad, the organization Green Cross has announced a new aid program for critically ill patients in Cuba.
The organization's representative, Taimy Venero, explained that this new program aims to benefit people suffering from illnesses who cannot access medications on the island. Green Cross emphasized that access to treatments will be handled on a person-to-person basis to avoid any government intervention that could lead to diversions, as reported by Telemundo 51.
To achieve this goal, those interested in receiving aid can contact them via email at ayuda@greencross.org, according to Venero. Family members or close friends of the patient can send the patient's medical history and specific details about their medical situation through this channel.
This approach aims to facilitate direct contact between the medical team treating the patient and Green Cross professionals, ensuring a thorough understanding of needs and providing the exact medications required.
For several years, Cubans have turned to social media to highlight their cases, hoping someone will help them obtain a humanitarian visa, primarily to the United States, which usually grants it if the necessary economic requirements are met to cover the cost of the operation or treatment, given the lack of medical supplies and infrastructure on the island.
The most notable case that has had a positive outcome is that of Cuban girl Amanda Lemus Ortiz, who, after many months of waiting, was finally able to undergo a liver transplant in Spain and now lives a normal life with her parents in the Iberian nation.
The health sector in Cuba faces serious challenges with supplies and the exodus of professionals, an issue acknowledged by Cuban leaders.
"Given the shortage of supplies and medications, the best response we can offer our population in such difficult times is the quality of services. We will have shortages; we will continue to have medication shortages," stated the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel during a meeting earlier this year, where he disclosed that the medication shortage would persist throughout the year.
Numerous reports have highlighted the deplorable condition of hospital facilities in Cuba. Therefore, collaborations like that of Green Cross are crucial, providing a glimmer of hope to patients and their families.
FAQs on Green Cross Aid Program for Cuban Patients
Here are some common questions and answers about the Green Cross aid program for critically ill patients in Cuba:
How can patients in Cuba apply for aid from Green Cross?
Interested individuals can contact Green Cross via email at ayuda@greencross.org. Family members or close friends of the patient should send the patient's medical history and specific details about their medical condition through this channel.
What is the main goal of the Green Cross aid program?
The primary aim of the program is to benefit individuals suffering from illnesses who cannot access medications on the island. The program ensures that treatments are provided on a person-to-person basis to avoid government intervention and potential diversions.
Why is there a need for such aid programs in Cuba?
Cuba's health sector faces severe shortages of medical supplies and an exodus of professionals. Collaborations like that of Green Cross are crucial in providing much-needed support to patients who cannot obtain necessary medications on the island.