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JAM | Feb 28, 2025

Jamaica, US at odds over recruitment of Cuban medical professionals

/ Our Today

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Minister of Health and Wellness, Dr Christopher Tufton, addresses the House of Representatives on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. (Photo: JIS/Donald De La Haye)

Cabinet is expected as soon as Tuesday to discuss the latest demand from the United States for Jamaica to stop recruiting Cuban nurses and doctors.

Should Jamaica comply, this could spell a blow for the island whose healthcare system is suffering from a shortage of doctors among other medical professionals.

Jamaica has had a long relationship with Cuba and has benefited from Cuba’s medical expertise.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had reportedly informed that Jamaica should scuttle its recruitment of Cuban doctors and nurses due to human trafficking concerns. Health Minister Dr Christopher Tufton is set to take the matter to Cabinet for a way forward to be determined.

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Christopher Tufotn Marco Rubio

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