Cuban doctors at the heart of Calabria

by María Josefina Arce

Cuban health professionals have earned a place in the hearts of residents of Calabria, a region in southern Italy that is facing a healthcare crisis due to a shortage of medical personnel and the potential closure of care facilities.

Since late 2022, Cuban healthcare workers have been providing their services in Calabrian hospitals, a contribution that has been repeatedly recognised by the authorities, the public and the Italian press.

Recently, for instance, a meeting was held in Venice to highlight the work and professionalism of Cuban doctors. According to the organisers, the gathering enabled an exchange of ideas that could be implemented in other regions, such as northern Veneto.

The medical brigade from the Caribbean nation has steadily increased its presence in Calabria for the benefit of its citizens. Earlier this month, 48 more specialists joined the effort, bringing the total number of professionals offering their humanitarian aid to nearly 400.

Over 40% of Cuban doctors are working in the emergency rooms of 27 Calabrian hospitals, where they are most needed. Together with their Italian colleagues, they are doing commendable work.

Cuba’s ambassador to Italy, Mirta Granda, stated that Cuban and Italian professionals have succeeded in bringing hope and healthcare to Calabria’s inhabitants.

This humanitarian assistance builds on the work carried out by the Henry Reeve International Contingent brigades in the northern cities of Crema and Turin in 2020, during the battle against the pandemic.

It was a difficult time for Italy, which became the epicentre of the new outbreak of the virus in Europe, causing devastation worldwide.

In the midst of this crisis, guided by their renowned spirit of solidarity and altruism, Cuban healthcare workers arrived, ready to save lives alongside their Italian counterparts.

For over six decades, Cuban healthcare workers have been sharing their knowledge, sensitivity and professionalism for the benefit of people in other countries.

No campaign of hatred or discredit against Cuba’s healthcare aid can stand against the countless testimonies of gratitude and recognition from authorities and citizens across different regions.