I'm always skeptical when I hear good liberals waxing rhapsodic about the wonders of the Cuban health care system. Not only is there a total dearth of decent data on the country's care, but what does exist tends to be agenda-driven and ideologically colored. But it is interesting to read why Hilda Molina, one of the countries most honored and highly placed surgeons, resigned her position and became a hated enemy of Fidel's:
In 1989, Dr. Molina realized a longtime dream by getting the government to establish the International Center for Neurological Restoration. The center conducted research and treated Cubans from all walks of life for maladies such as strokes and epilepsy. Fidel Castro would come for visits, often with foreign dignitaries in tow. "It was a point of pride that Cuba could have such an advanced facility," says Dr. Molina, who was rewarded with a seat in the Cuban Parliament.
She was overjoyed when her son became a neurologist and began working alongside her in the institute. Says Dr. Quiñones: "Her goal was for me to one day take over her work."
But in the 1990s, the collapse of the Soviet Union, which had bankrolled the Castro regime, began undermining the project to which Dr. Molina had dedicated her life. Dr. Molina says authorities ordered her to begin setting aside more beds for paying foreign patients, rather than ailing Cubans. "It was all about earning hard currency for the government," she says.
Molina, now, is harassed by secret police, watched 24 hours a day, and can't leave the country. Charming. Moreover, it's rather fascinating to note that the problem she identified in Cuba's health system is the same one we have here -- care tilted towards the rich and inequities for the poor.
See? Our countries can find common ground after all...
