Dominica signs new health agreement with Cuba

Dominica is expected to benefit from a new health cooperation agreement signed with Cuba last week. This will see a number of Dominicans undergoing training in Cuba.

The documents were signed by health minister, hon. Julius timothy and Cuban ambassador to Dominica, her Excellency Juana Elena Ramos.

According to the terms of the agreement, ten Dominicans and five health care providers will receive specialist training in Cuba.

Cuba presently provides specialist training in the fields of intensive care, gastroenterology, pathology, general surgery, radiology, biomedical engineering, lab services and nursing services.

September this year will expect to see the commencement of the training in the areas of pediatrics, internal medicine, infectious disease, podiatry and oncology.

The agreement also states that Cuba will assist Dominica in repairs and maintenance of medical equipment and conducting research to address critical health issues.

Under the Cuban technical cooperation agreement, Dominica has seen a reduction in the number of patients referred to intensive care treatment out of state and a reduction in the cost to government. There have also been improvements in the diagnostic services available at the primary health care level.

Minister timothy, on behalf of the government and people of Dominica, expressed his gratitude for Cuba’s commitment and assistance in improving Dominica’s health sector.