Cuban health officials presented the nation’s advanced digital health strategy during the 59th Executive Council meeting of the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), highlighting how technological innovation has strengthened pandemic response capabilities. Dr. Ileana Morales, Director of Science and Technological Innovation at Cuba’s Ministry of Public Health (MINSAP), detailed how digital tools have enabled real-time data processing for more effective epidemiological management throughout the COVID-19 crisis.
Dr. Morales emphasized Cuba’s comprehensive approach to health information systems development, which centers on specialized training for professionals in technology and university programs. The country has made significant advancements in cutting-edge medical fields including medical robotics, precision medicine, nanoscience, and neuroscience—all disciplines that demand sophisticated data processing capabilities for large-volume information assimilation.
Karel Barthelemy, MINSAP’s Director of Information Technology and Communications, addressed the substantial challenges of digital transformation in healthcare, stressing the necessity for tailored designs that accommodate each nation’s unique characteristics. He outlined several operational computer solutions currently deployed in Cuba, including research platforms, laboratory results monitoring systems, hospital bed availability trackers, clinical laboratory information management, and vaccinated population databases.
A critical component of Cuba’s strategy involves employing Big Data analytics and mathematical modeling to predict viral behavior patterns within populations. These predictive tools enable health authorities to refine national response plans and continuously update patient care protocols based on empirical evidence.
Both officials emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, noting that successful implementation of digital transformation roadmaps across the Americas requires strengthened collaboration between PAHO and member states. Such partnerships would facilitate knowledge exchange and accelerate progress toward developing shared technological platforms that benefit the entire region.