For Immediate Release:
[April 1, 2026]
The National Medical Association (NMA), representing the collective voice of Black physicians and the patients we serve, expresses deep concern regarding the escalating health consequences of the ongoing Cuban blockade. This comes following a recent dialogue between NMA President Dr. Roger A. Mitchell, Jr., and the Ambassador of Cuba Tanieris Diéguez.
Cuba’s healthcare system is currently experiencing severe strain driven by an intensifying energy crisis linked to restrictions on fuel access. Hospitals and clinics are facing persistent power outages, disrupting life-saving services such as neonatal care, dialysis, chemotherapy, and surgical procedures. More than 96,000 patients are currently awaiting surgeries, including thousands of children, as the system is forced to delay care due to limited operational capacity.
Fuel shortages are also impairing ambulance services, the transportation of healthcare workers, and the distribution of essential medicines. National pharmaceutical production has slowed significantly, and the stability required to store vaccines and critical medications is increasingly at risk due to ongoing electricity disruptions.
The consequences are particularly alarming for vulnerable populations. Shortages of antibiotics, nutritional supplements, and basic medical supplies are contributing to worsening maternal and infant health outcomes, including tens of thousands of children experiencing delays in routine vaccinations due to logistical and energy constraints. From a medical and ethical standpoint, these conditions raise urgent concerns. Access to reliable electricity, essential medicines, and functioning healthcare infrastructure are foundational to modern medicine. When these are compromised, the result is preventable suffering, delayed care, and increased risk of morbidity and mortality.
The NMA affirms that health is a human right. Public health systems must be protected from policies that unintentionally or disproportionately harm civilian populations, particularly children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic or life-threatening conditions. As physicians committed to health equity and global health justice, we call for immediate removal of elements of the blockade that have led to the humanitarian and health impacts affecting the people of Cuba. We further encourage dialogue, transparency, and collaboration among the global medical and public health communities in response to the crisis to assist with access to care, medical supplies, and life-sustaining resources needed post blockade.
The NMA stands in solidarity with healthcare professionals working under constrained conditions and reiterates its commitment to advocating for policies that protect patient care, preserve human dignity, and uphold the fundamental principles of public health.
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About the National Medical Association:
The NMA is the nation’s oldest and largest organization representing Black physicians and health professionals in the U.S. and promotes the collective interests of physicians and patients of African descent. We serve as the voice of Black physicians and a leading voice for parity in medicine, elimination of health disparities and promotion of optimal health. To learn more about the NMA, please visit https://www.nmanet.org/.
