Exploring Cuba’s Medical Breakthroughs: A Study of Health Care and International Relations

By Julie M. Feinsilver, David E. Apter

Cuba, a small, developing country, has achieved stunning medical breakthroughs despite facing numerous challenges. With scarce resources and a long-standing U.S. embargo, Cuba has managed to provide universal access to health care, comprehensive health education, and advanced technology. This has led to Cuba emerging as a “world medical power,” as described by Fidel Castro.

Julie Feinsilver’s significant and timely study explores the Cuban medical phenomenon, examining how a governmental obsession with health has reaped medical and political benefits at home and abroad. Cuba’s forward strides in health care have resulted in low infant mortality rates, even by First World standards. The country has successfully dealt with the AIDS epidemic, albeit in a manner that has aroused controversy and raised questions about individual liberties.

Feinsilver’s research and travel in Cuba over many years give her a unique perspective on the challenges Cuba faces in this time of unprecedented economic and political uncertainty. Her book is a must-read for everyone concerned with health policy, international relations, and Third World societies.

Book Details:

Publisher: University of California Press; First Edition (October 28, 1993)

Language: English

Pages: 328

ISBN-10: 0520082982

ISBN-13: 978-0520082984