Closure of Cuban Medical Clinics Leaves Honduran Patients Without Care

The recent closure of Cuban-operated ophthalmology clinics in Honduras has left many patients without vital eye care services. The decision, linked to the new Honduran government's refusal to renew a long-standing agreement with Cuba, has affected thousands who relied on these clinics for affordable surgeries and consultations. For over 20 years, Cuban doctors provided essential medical services, performing thousands of procedures that were otherwise financially out of reach for many locals. The closure follows increased pressure from the U.S. government, which has influenced several countries in the region to terminate similar agreements with Cuba. Patients like Horacio Carabantes are now left without hope as they struggle to access necessary medical care.

Key Details: • Cuban clinics in Honduras performed over 3,700 surgeries and 20,000 consultations in one year. • The closure was announced just before a scheduled cataract surgery for many patients. • The new Honduran government, supported by the U.S., decided not to renew the medical agreement with Cuba. • Cuban medical missions have been a significant source of income for the Cuban government.