Incorporating a gender perspective into Cuba's health system: realities and challenges

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gender Studies
• Health Policy

Background:

• The Cuban health system has historically focused on universal access but requires a deeper integration of gender as a social determinant.
• Understanding the intersection of biological and social factors is crucial for addressing health inequities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the progress and identify challenges in integrating a gender perspective within the Cuban health system.
• To provide recommendations for enhancing gender mainstreaming across various health system functions.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of progress and challenges.
• Review of existing health policies and practices.
• Identification of key areas for gender perspective integration.

Main Results:

• Increased awareness and focus on gender as a social determinant of health.
• Progress noted in acknowledging the interaction between biological and social factors.
• Identified weaknesses in policy, planning, services, health assessments, and human resources development.

Conclusions:

• While progress has been made in conceptualizing gender's role in health, practical implementation faces significant challenges.
• Recommendations are proposed for integrating a gender perspective into policy, planning, service delivery, health assessments, and workforce training to promote health equity.