The Best Hospitals in Cuba for Visitors and Expats
Cuba is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, making it a fascinating place to visit. While Cuba is a favorite travel destination, many expats are deterred from traveling to Cuba because of its Communist government and travel restrictions.
Due to the difficulty of meeting travel requirements, Cuba’s expatriate population is significantly smaller than that of its surrounding countries. If you find yourself in need of medical assistance, it’s essential to know where to find the best hospitals in Cuba.
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US Travel Restrictions to Cuba
Tourism to Cuba is illegal under U.S. law. U.S. citizens traveling to Cuba will face various travel restrictions; however, travel to Cuba is still possible with certain exceptions.
In 2019, the US banned flights to all Cuban cities except for Havana. Cruise ships and group tours from the U.S. to Cuba are also forbidden.
U.S. expats are still able to travel to Cuba for the following reasons:
- Family visits
- Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and specific intergovernmental organizations
- Journalistic activity
- Professional research and professional meetings
- Educational activities
- Religious activities
- Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
- Support for the Cuban people
- Humanitarian projects
- Activities of private foundations, research, or educational institutes
- Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
- Certain export transactions may be considered for authorization under existing regulations and guidelines.
As a U.S. expat traveling to Cuba, make sure not to spend any money at businesses or hotels on the restricted list. Also, be sure to save all receipts from your time in Cuba, as the U.S. government is authorized to request receipts for up to five years.
U.S. expats should ensure they arrive in Cuba with travel medical insurance, a valid passport, and a visa or tourist card.
The Quality of Healthcare in Cuban Hospitals
Cuba’s healthcare system is praised by many for its free healthcare system for all Cuban citizens. However, numerous problems persist today regarding Cuba’s healthcare.
Cuba’s infrastructure requires significant improvement; most buildings are in a poor state and need to be updated. Doctors also struggle with the absence of essential medicines, as well as the need for more modern medical devices.
The trade embargo with the U.S. has put a significant strain on Cuba’s access to medical equipment, as it needs to source equipment from as far as China, which can cause substantial delays.
What Type of Hospitals Are in Cuba?
There are no private hospitals or clinics in Cuba, as all aspects of healthcare are run by the government.
Cuba’s healthcare system includes specialty clinics that cater specifically to the treatment of foreigners and diplomats.
The best hospitals and doctors are often reserved for tourists and politicians, leaving some Cubans with subpar care.
Many resorts in Cuba have international clinics, mainly in Havana, Varadero, and Santa Lucia. Most expatriates in Havana are sent to Cira Garcia Hospital for all medical treatment, as it is known as a “tourist” hospital.
Do Doctors Speak English in Hospitals in Cuba?
While Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cuba’s hospitals, expatriates may still be able to find some English-speaking doctors.
Cuba is known for sending many of its own doctors on mission trips around the world. As a result, Cuba offers a vast amount of scholarships for students from hundreds of countries, including the United States, to attend medical school and work in Cuban hospitals.
Is Medical Care in Cuba Free?
In Cuba, healthcare is considered a national priority and a human right for all citizens. In 1959, the Cuban government began to overhaul the “for-profit” healthcare system, which led to free health services for all citizens over the course of 30 years.
Anything from a simple check-up to a complex surgery is free of charge. Even prescriptions and at-home visits are covered.
However, expatriates in Cuba are required to purchase medical insurance. This rule also applies to Cubans living overseas. Expats are required to have health insurance, as they will not be permitted to leave the island if they have any outstanding medical bills.
If an expatriate arrives on the island without travel medical insurance, they will have the option to purchase insurance upon arrival at the airport, port, or marina.
International citizens need to have sufficient funds to cover medical costs, as Cuba does not accept credit or debit cards from other countries.
Is Cuba Safe for Visitors?
Cuba has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries. Crime, especially theft, is on the rise, so expats should always be aware of their surroundings and try to avoid walking alone at night.
In the event of an emergency, expats should dial 106 to contact police, fire, or medical services.
Expats should also be aware of hurricane season, which typically runs from June to November, as these storms can be particularly hazardous.
Best Hospitals in Cuba
Havana
CIMEQ
Calle 216 e/13 y 15
Rpto. Siboney, Ciudad Habana
Phone: (+53) 7858-1000
Clínica Central Cira García Hospital
Calle 20 No. 4101, esq Ave 41
Playa, Ciudad Habana
Phone: (+53) 7204-2811 (or the same number ending in 12, 13, or 14)
Hospital Camilo Cienfuegos
Calle 13 esq. a L, Vedado
Phone: (+53) 7832-3507; 7832-5554; 7836-4069
Clínico Quirúrgico Abel Santamaría
Carretera Central Km 31/2, Hermanos Cruz
Phone: (+53) 4876-0104; 4876-2006; 4876-0112
Hospitals in Other Cuban Cities
Clínica Internacional Varadero
Calle 60 esquina 1ra Ave, Varadero
Phone: (+53) 4566-7710; 4566-7711; 4566-8611
Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Faustino Pérez
Carretera Central Km 97, Matanzas
Phone: (+53) 4524-7016
Hospital Provincial de Matanzas José Ramón López Tabranes
Santa Rita E/ San Isidro y Santa Cecilia, Matanzas
Phone: (+53) 4524-7011; 4524-6400
Clínica Internacional de Cienfuegos
Paseo El Prado, Cienfuegos
Phone: (+53) 4355-1622; 4355-1623
Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima
Ave 5 de Septiembre y 51, Cienfuegos
Phone: (+53) 4359-1100; 43-591482; 4359-1472
Hospital Clínico Quirúrgico Manuel Ascunce Domenech
Carretera Central Oeste km 4½, Camagüey
Phone: (+53) 3228-2012; 32-231904; 3223-1446
Clínica Internacional Santa Lucía
Residencial No. 14, Playa Santa Lucía, Camagüey
Phone: (+53) 3233-6370 / 3233-5300
Clínica Internacional de Santiago de Cuba
Ave. Raúl Puyol esq. a Calle 10 s/n, Parque Ferreiro
Phone: (+53) 2271-4256; 2271-4019
Hospital General Juan Bruno Zayas
Carretera del Caney, Pastorita, Santiago de Cuba
Phone: (+53) 2264-2067; 2264-2068
Clínica Internacional Baracoa
Calle Martí 237 e/ Roberto Reyes y Limbano Sánchez
Phone: +53 2164-1037; 2164-1037
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