Glimpse at Cuban Health Care

Viernes, viente Febrero

Just came back from a visit to a pre natal house that is for expecting mothers and their unborn who are at risk due to various health issues. It is part of the Cuban national system of health care that provides necessary support for good pre-natal care. As a result this system that was initiated post la revolucion, the infant mortality rate in Cuba is very low.

The location was a building in the neighborhood that had been converted in the last decade to serve this purpose. There were twelve ladies living there, all of relatively young age. The program is designed to identify at risk pregnant women at local levels, provide subsequent medical screening and analysis and then follow up with comprehensive pre natal medical support, which includes counseling. Identification happens through local doctors and nurses. Pregnant women identified as at risk are linked to a support system that stays in place throughout their pregnancy and continues post natal. Counseling and pre natal prep includes nutrition, breast feeding, etc.

Should any need more advanced medical support, they can be moved to residences in urban areas. Typical hospital stay for uncomplicated birth is 3 days; 5 days for cesarean.
Cost for service is zero. All health care in Cuba is free.