Medical Tourism in Cuba

Although the common citizens of Cuba are often ill-afforded a decent standard of healthcare, the booming private and tourism health sectors offer health tourists top level care at prices that are often far below those in North America. The network of specialist medical and health centers ensures that foreign clients receive the best care through the most advanced medical treatments, technical equipment and tranquil recuperation resorts.

The Cuban economy has benefited greatly from the promotion of health tourism. Revenues generated from the industry are around US$40 million a year. The government’s strong efforts to increase economic growth through private healthcare seem to be paying off, with numbers of medical tourists flocking to the island increasing by 20 percent per year.

One of the major treatments that attract more European and American clients than any other in Cuba is for retinitis pigmentosa, or night blindness. But many foreigners make the journey to receive top level care in neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease, and for orthopaedic treatment, while cosmetic surgery and drug and alcohol rehabilitation are becoming increasingly popular.

As well as receiving the best in medical care in private Cuban hospitals, clients also enjoy conveniences from cable TV to air conditioning and vast menus of international cuisine. Prices on average are about one third lower than those in North America and Europe, while the service and an added personal touch combine to make the overall experience as pleasant as can be.

Cuba’s prime Caribbean location, surrounded by crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, affords recovering patients the opportunity to rest up in paradise. Recuperation is a pleasure here, surrounded by beauty and tranquillity in any one of a number of spectacular locations.

Cubanacan Tourism and Health is the main body for the promotion and coordination of medical trips to Cuba. According to a report by the group, 3,500 clients traveled to the island last year to avail of the best care available in a country with more doctors per capita than anywhere else in the world.