The Camagüey Health Directorate issued a stern warning on Thursday, reinforcing the prohibition of private medical practice in Cuba. The announcement stated that health and legal authorities would take action against those offering or advertising medical services for profit.
This declaration was shared in a Facebook post following a social media uproar about private medical services being advertised with prices in U.S. dollars.
"Let us be unequivocal: private medical practice is not permitted in any form or under any payment scheme in our country," the institution asserted.
Officials emphasized that "there is no legal foundation" for such activities, pointing to an explicit ban under Decree 160 of 2026.
Legal Consequences for Violators
The statement also highlighted potential legal repercussions for anyone attempting to provide or promote these services.
"Any individual, whether a healthcare professional or layperson, engaging in or promoting these activities, is committing an illegal act and thus a crime," the Camagüey Health Directorate stated.
The institution further warned that "health and judicial authorities in the province will enforce the law to its fullest extent" against those who violate the regulations.
Defense of the State Health Model
In its communiqué, the Camagüey Health Directorate defended the state-run model, asserting that "public health is a right of the people and a duty of the State."
"We will not allow individual interests or profit-driven practices outside the law to undermine the health system that belongs to all Cubans," it added.
Authorities also urged the public to report any attempts to profit from medical services, labeling such offers as potentially fraudulent.
The Dalia Spa Incident
This announcement followed the revelation of Dalia Spa, a private enterprise in Camagüey, which circulated a catalog featuring internal medicine and cardiology consultations for $30, along with gynecological procedures and a comprehensive lab check for $105.
The business later clarified that the advertisement was a "test" and that the services were not available.
The catalog listed, among other services, initial consultations in internal medicine and cardiology at $30, follow-ups at $15, ultrasounds priced between $25 and $45, the insertion and removal of intrauterine devices, and a cervical cytology for $80.
However, there is no evidence that the establishment actually carried out these consultations, tests, or procedures, nor that it collected the advertised fees.
To date, only the existence of the advertisement and the subsequent business response claiming the services are "not available" has been documented.
Current legislation reserves professional medical care activities exclusively for the State. Decree 160/2026, effective since August 4, lists medical and social care services, including dental, among the unauthorized activities for non-state economic actors, with specific exceptions allowed under certain authorizations.
FAQs on Cuba's Ban on Private Medical Practice
What actions will Cuba take against private medical practices?
Health and judicial authorities will enforce the law rigorously against those offering or promoting private medical services, as these actions are considered illegal under current Cuban regulations.
Why is private medical practice banned in Cuba?
The Cuban government maintains that public health is a right for all citizens and a state responsibility. The prohibition of private medical practice is part of preserving this state-run health system.
Are there any exceptions to the ban on private medical services in Cuba?
While Decree 160/2026 generally prohibits private medical services, it does allow for certain exceptions under specific authorizations. However, these are tightly controlled and limited.