Might the U.S. Have Important Lessons to Learn from Cuba About Healthcare and Aging?

Having lived several years in Miami, I have long had a bit of fascination with the island nation of Cuba. So close, and yet so far away. While working in Ireland in 2010, my interest increased, as I learned more about modern-day Cuba from Dr. Una Lynch, a public health specialist, who had frequently traveled and worked in Cuba.  She gave a presentation that opened my eyes to Cuba’s WHO statistics, its reputation for a “first world” health care system, and the positve outcomes on aging and longevity.  See here and here for more comparative discussions on Cuban health care.

It was a happy surprise for many to learn of the dramatic plans to restore diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba.  At the same time, I suspect that some of my Cuban-American friends in Miami may be torn, especially as many of their families were forced to flee Havana years ago. One friend has akready reacted happily, commenting,  “This is a bold move and long overdue.” Feliz aňo nuevo!