The Faustino Pérez Provincial Clinical Surgical Teaching Hospital in Matanzas has addressed recent social media posts featuring photos of the facility's orthopedic ward, where parts of the false ceiling have collapsed and debris is scattered among patient beds. The hospital accused those sharing these images of "manipulation" and participating in a "smear campaign."
Independent communicator Christian Arbolaez was the first to share these images on Facebook, showing the deteriorated ceiling and debris on the floor of the ward's first cubicle. "The false ceiling is falling apart, with its panels lying scattered on the floor, between the beds and medical equipment," Arbolaez described.
He further expressed frustration, noting that "weeks have passed without resolution. It's infuriating that they haven't even bothered to clear the debris. Meanwhile, the beds remain under a dilapidated structure, risking further ceiling collapses."
Arbolaez questioned, "How can a hospital meant to safeguard people's health be in such a neglected state? This isn't an abandoned building; it's a healthcare institution."
Hospital's Response and Justification
The hospital's official response was published by the pro-government newspaper Periódico Girón, featuring statements from Renier Oramas Grillo, the hospital's head of General Services. Oramas Grillo explained that the ceiling collapse occurred on Friday, October 30, in the first cubicle of the Orthopedic Service's room N due to high-intensity wind gusts that entered through a window, accompanied by heavy rain. He also acknowledged damage to a second cubicle.
"It's vital to contextualize that these images show the aftermath of an isolated incident, not the overall condition of the ward. This sudden material damage resulted from severe weather, and the hospital is addressing its impact," Oramas Grillo stated.
According to Periódico Girón, Oramas Grillo expressed gratitude for the understanding of patients, families, and staff, reiterating the hospital's commitment to transparent and timely communication. He reassured that medical services continued uninterrupted, with staff promptly clearing debris and assessing damages.
Calls for Accountability and Transparency
The hospital's official statement was reposted on Christian Arbolaez's page, where he acknowledged the response but noted, "It’s striking that it took a public photo to elicit explanations about this ward's condition. You're confirming the ceiling collapse and additional damage to a second cubicle. So, what part of my post is untrue?"
Arbolaez challenged the hospital further: "You talk about contextualizing facts and verifying information. Great. In that spirit, can you share current photos of both cubicles and the repairs you claim are underway? When will they be fixed? What measures have been taken to ensure no risk to patients and staff?"
He continued, "Reporting on the state of a public hospital isn't creating unnecessary concern. The concern arises from collapsing ceilings, not the photos that reveal the truth. My aim isn't to discredit the hardworking medical staff but to highlight the deficiencies affecting those in need of care."
Arbolaez concluded by urging, "If there's genuine commitment to transparency, I hope you respond to these questions as readily as you justified the incident. Hospitals don't need image protection—they need ceiling repairs."
Despite attempts to explain this particular issue, the general state of hospitals in Cuba has been deteriorating for years. Just the day before, a part of the front structure of the Carlos Enrique Font Pupo Hospital in Banes, Holguín, collapsed after months of warnings about its condition. In October 2026, the Eliseo Noel Caamaño Pediatric Hospital in Matanzas denied collapse claims amid similar social media reports, and in October 2025, the Gustavo Aldereguía Lima Hospital in Cienfuegos urged the public "not to be misled" by reports of leaks and deterioration. Earlier in February 2026, Faustino Pérez Hospital had suspended elective surgeries due to resource shortages and reliance on generators.
Understanding the Crisis in Cuban Hospitals
What caused the ceiling collapse at the Faustino Pérez Hospital?
The collapse was reportedly due to high-intensity wind gusts and heavy rain entering through a window, as stated by Renier Oramas Grillo, the hospital's head of General Services.
How has the hospital responded to the incident?
The hospital claims to be addressing the situation by clearing debris and evaluating damages, while maintaining medical services without interruption.
What issues have other Cuban hospitals faced recently?
Other hospitals, like the Carlos Enrique Font Pupo Hospital and the Gustavo Aldereguía Lima Hospital, have experienced structural deterioration and resource shortages, leading to incidents and public concern.