The Cuban Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP) recently posted on Facebook about what they called a "heroic feat" performed by the medical team at José Martí Provincial Pediatric Hospital in Sancti Spíritus. The post celebrated a successful surgery in which a benign cystic lymphangioma weighing over a pound was removed from a four-year-old patient. According to the publication, "the young Keiler Coca Valdivia will soon be running free," praising the dedication and effort of the healthcare professionals involved.
While the post was filled with well-wishes for the child and commendations for the medical team, it also drew sharp criticism towards the Cuban healthcare system, with many highlighting its deficiencies and referencing the case of young Damir Ortiz. “Did the family have to bring their own materials, or were they available at the hospital? My neighbor was sent home until he could procure all necessary supplies for his surgery,” one user commented, pointing out the shortages faced by patients in other facilities.
Public Perception and Criticism
Some critics suggested that the post was an attempt to distract from the healthcare system's shortcomings. "Using a child to divert attention is shameless. #SOSDAMIR," one comment read. Another criticized, "This seems like propaganda to mask the Damir issue. There are countless examples. Many mothers remain silent out of fear of repercussions." Others added, "Great for that child, but they're rushing due to Damir's case. If only they acted like this for everyone," and, "What about Damir? Why the delay for a document that takes five minutes to issue?"
While some applauded the medical team's efforts, many questioned MINSAP's public relations approach. "Congratulations, but there are many more cases. Triumphalism does harm and downplays the issues," one person remarked. Another asked, "Why is the Ministry only concerned with communication during crises?"
The Damir Ortiz Dilemma
The case of Damir Ortiz, a 10-year-old Cuban boy with neurofibromatosis type 1 and a plexiform neurofibroma in his right eye, has become emblematic of the Cuban healthcare system's limitations. His mother, Eliannis Ramírez, has stated that Damir needs specialized treatment unavailable in Cuba. A hospital in Miami has agreed to provide advanced therapies, but MINSAP has refused to issue a letter certifying the unavailability of treatment in Cuba, a requirement for obtaining a humanitarian visa.
Recently, the U.S. Embassy in Havana denied Damir's visa due to the lack of this critical document. MINSAP claims that Damir has received specialized care and costly medications, including a $500,000 investment in Koselugo (selumetinib) for his condition. Official reports also state that he undergoes regular monitoring with high-tech equipment, such as high-field MRI scans.
Despite these claims, Damir's mother and activists with the #SOSDAMIR campaign argue that the Cuban healthcare system lacks the resources to adequately treat him. Eliannis Ramírez has emphasized that the tumor affects areas of the brain considered inoperable in Cuba, and the absence of basic supplies, such as pain medication, worsens his situation.
MINSAP has defended its decision not to issue the letter, citing risks associated with transferring Damir abroad. They stated that "due to the complexity of the disease and the guarded prognosis, the patient isn't eligible for transfer, as he could face risks like respiratory arrest." This stance has been heavily criticized by activists and the public, who view it as an attempt to cover up systemic failures.
Currently, Damir remains in intensive care at Juan Manuel Márquez Pediatric Hospital in Havana, dealing with kidney complications and ocular inflammation. According to his mother, every day without access to the specialized treatment he needs endangers his life. A GoFundMe campaign led by activist Diasniurka Salcedo aims to raise $40,000 for Damir's treatment and travel, yet the absence of the MINSAP letter remains a significant barrier.
The situation surrounding Damir Ortiz, first brought to light in 2023, has sparked outrage both within Cuba and internationally. Meanwhile, the contrast between MINSAP's actions in this case and their lauded "medical triumph" in Sancti Spíritus has only fueled further criticism of the Cuban healthcare system.
Understanding the Healthcare Crisis in Cuba
What was the "heroic feat" performed in Sancti Spíritus?
The "heroic feat" referred to a successful surgery performed on a four-year-old boy to remove a benign cystic lymphangioma at José Martí Provincial Pediatric Hospital in Sancti Spíritus.
Why is the case of Damir Ortiz significant?
Damir Ortiz's case highlights the limitations and shortages within the Cuban healthcare system, as he needs specialized treatment not available in Cuba, which has been met with bureaucratic obstacles.
What are the main criticisms of the Cuban healthcare system discussed in the article?
Critics argue that the Cuban healthcare system is marked by shortages of essential supplies and bureaucratic inefficiencies, as evidenced by the contrasting handling of Keiler's surgery and Damir's ongoing struggle for treatment.