The arrival of Cuban doctors in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, has stirred concern among academic authorities and students at the Faculty of Medicine. Their presence is reportedly disrupting the allocation of spaces designated for social service by future healthcare professionals.
Ismael Francisco Herrera Benavente, the director of the Faculty of Medicine, shared his concerns with potosinoticias.com, highlighting both the impact on students and the quality of care provided by these Cuban specialists. Herrera Benavente noted that graduates from the Faculty must undergo strict certification processes, evaluations, and specialty exams to practice in the Mexican healthcare system, and he questioned the training and accreditation of the Cuban doctors.
Moreover, he pointed out that the influx of Cuban medical professionals in San Luis Potosí has diminished opportunities for interns and those fulfilling social service roles, who have traditionally occupied these positions as part of their professional development. In response, the Faculty of Medicine has been compelled to seek alternatives and expand available clinical fields to ensure students continue to receive quality education and practical experience.
Over recent years, the medical collaboration between Cuba and Mexico has intensified. In July 2024, the Mexican government announced the arrival of 2,700 Cuban doctors, adding to the 950 already present across 23 states, bringing the total to 3,650 health professionals from the island. This initiative is part of the IMSS-Bienestar program, aimed at enhancing healthcare in rural and underserved areas of Mexico.
However, the hiring of Cuban doctors has sparked criticism due to Cuba's healthcare personnel crisis, where a shortage of doctors and resources severely impacts the local population. The Mexican government has paid over $24 million to the Cuban regime for these services over two years. This agreement has been controversial, with some viewing it as a means to financially support the Cuban government through the export of medical services.
Specifically, in San Luis Potosí, Governor Ricardo Gallardo announced in July 2024 the rehabilitation of two hospitals to accommodate an additional 80 Cuban doctors, aiming to improve healthcare in the region, especially in areas like the Huasteca and the municipality of Rioverde. This agreement has sparked debate regarding its impact on training professionals and the quality of care provided in the state.
It's crucial to emphasize that while Mexico increases its recruitment of Cuban doctors, Cuba is experiencing a significant loss of healthcare personnel. In 2023, more than 13,300 doctors reportedly left the island, delivering a severe blow to its already fragile healthcare system.
Impact of Cuban Doctors in Mexico
How are Cuban doctors affecting medical students in San Luis Potosí?
The presence of Cuban doctors is affecting the distribution of spaces for social service, reducing opportunities for medical students and interns traditionally using these positions for professional training.
What is the IMSS-Bienestar program?
The IMSS-Bienestar program is an initiative by the Mexican government aimed at improving healthcare services in rural and underserved regions by recruiting medical professionals, including Cuban doctors.
Why is the recruitment of Cuban doctors controversial?
The recruitment is controversial because it involves significant payments to the Cuban government and occurs amid a healthcare personnel crisis in Cuba, where doctor shortages are impacting the local population.