Abstract

MARIMON TORRES, Néstor  and  TORRES MARTINEZ, Esther. Impact of the US economic, financial and commercial blockage on the national health care system. Rev Cubana Salud Pública [online]. 2013, vol.39, n.2, pp. 298-313. ISSN 0864-3466.

Introduction: since 1959, Cuba has suffered a ruthless economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the USA, which have heavily affected the Cuban population and the health care system. This situation worsened in the so called "special period of the 90's"after the tightening of the blockade. Objectives: to provide the necessary elements which allow analyzing the impact of the US blockade on the national health system as well as the Cuba's experience in previous crises and the learned lessons. Methods: qualitative and descriptive research study of the damages inflicted by the blockade on the health system. Results: the impact on the health care system was proven, based on figures and specific examples, the measures adopted to keep the main services for the population and the required changes in which the Ministry of Public health works in order to preserve its achievements Conclusions: the Cuban health care is one of the most affected spheres by the US blockade; however, it has kept the services in operation for the people and has looked for new alternatives to solve every difficulty. The learned lessons help us to be better prepared and to continue facing the blockade impact and the world economic crisis.

Keywords : economic blockage; primary health care; health system; special period.

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