We spent some time at the National School for Public Health. Here we
met with three professors who specialized in various aspects of the
Cuban Public Health System. We as Americans I think struggled a bit
trying to understand exactly what the function is of this ministry
department.
First
let me share the similarities of our public health when compared to the
Cuban public health. Both are engaged in epidemic research. For
example, research is done to examine the different vectors as to how
certain diseases are transmitted among the people. Mentioned in the
presentation were mosquitoes and rats as an example of areas of current
research. The Cuban public health officials deal with a lot of
statistical information as well. This is very similar to our public
health officials. Data is collected and examined looking for trends and
variances. From this information, decisions and recommendations can be
made for the well being of public health and safety.
Here is where the differences take place. It was to my understanding
that the Cuban public health officials gathered and reported pertinent
data to the appropriate departments. The Cuban Ministry of Health
actually determined the course of action based on the data reported by
the Ministry of Public Health. Where as in the United States, a public
health official can take action within the community based on their own
recommendations after determining a public health risk. The U. officials
can actually close a school or a restaurant due to a health risk or an
outbreak of illness. The Cuban officials in the public health sector did
not carry the same authority. This type of decision fell solely on the
Health Ministry.
The
Cuban public health officials routinely analyses the statistics produce
by the statisticians in the polyclinics and family doctor units. With
this data, the public health officials determine how efficiently the
health system is performing. This data is then reported again to the
Ministry of Health, where course of action is determined to remedy the
area of concern.
It is important to note here, when inquired by our group as to what
type of barriers hinder the Public Health Ministry as senior professor
emeritus stated very bluntly that the United States embargo was number
one. The professor, whom I believe spoke directly from his heart, spoke
to the effects of the U.S. embargo. This included the limited access to
newer medications and equipment which had negative effects on the well
being of the Cuban people. I was intrigued by his sincerity, and obvious
dismay the others displayed as the older professor spoke his mind. It
was our impression that the older, wiser professor had crossed into an
area he perhaps should not have been discussing.
I spoke up and thanked the professor for sharing his heart with us.
While we all have our own thoughts and impressions on the information
shared with us. Such uncomfortable topics like the U.S. embargo are what
helped make the trip more interesting and real at the same time. There
may have been a consorted effort to play on our emotions, but not
everyone in the group bought into it. I for one feel like in some
regards my eyes were opened, but on the other hand my guard was lifted
in an effort to remain open minded.
Please feel free to comment or ask questions on any of these topics.
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including the cultural aspects of the trip not health care related.