Future of Cuban Medical Brigade in Belize Remains Uncertain

The future of the Cuban medical brigade in Belize remains uncertain amid pressure from the United States government, which has raised concerns that Cuba’s overseas medical missions involve forced labor. Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard has denied reports that Cuban medical professionals are already being sent home but confirmed that Belize has until the end of September to determine the brigade’s future in the country.
Bernard told the media on August 27th that diplomatic discussions regarding the Cuban brigade are ongoing, while its members remain employed and continue working across Belize. “We are hoping that at the end of the day when these diplomatic talks are over, we can find an amicable solution as it relates to the Cuban brigade,” he emphasized. “We appreciate the support that the Cuban people have given to Belize, and there is no truth to us sending Cubans home one by one as was insinuated in a social media post.” Regarding the end-of-September deadline, Bernard said he hopes a solution can be reached before then.
The departure of the Cuban medical brigade could significantly impact Belize’s public health system due to shortages in medical personnel. However, Bernard noted that alternative staffing options are already being explored should the Cuban brigade program be discontinued. He said many Belizean doctors and healthcare workers have been training abroad in countries such as Taiwan, while the government is also exploring collaboration with neighboring countries, including Honduras.
“The government is looking at alternative areas and countries that we can tap into. Following a recent visit to Honduras, we had the opportunity to discuss this plan, and we are hoping that after further discussions we could look at our Belizeans to have access as well to do their residency program there in Honduras,” Bernard explained. “We are looking at the Philippines for nurses to come in and help to fill the gaps.”
The Health Minister said discussions are also taking place with the Nicaraguan government regarding specialized doctors, as well as with partners in Mexico. Bernard added that Cabinet has approved a $33 million investment program over ten years to provide additional training and scholarship opportunities for Belizeans pursuing nursing and other medical specialties.
The Cuban medical brigade in Belize is currently estimated to comprise 82 medical professionals. Several continue to serve in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, providing services at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, the island’s main public healthcare facility.