Family Medicine: an essential and growing specialty

Authors

  • José Fernando Placeres-Hernández University of Medical Sciences of Matanzas. Faculty of Medical Sciences of Matanzas “Dr. Juan Guiteras Gener”, Matanzas. Cuba https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6285-5029
  • Yonathan Estrada-Rodríguez University of Medical Sciences of Matanzas. Faculty of Medical Sciences of Matanzas “Dr. Juan Guiteras Gener”, Matanzas. Cuba https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9161-6545

Keywords:

Family Medicine, Primary Health Care, Cuba, postgraduate education, Health policies

Abstract

The official transition to Family Medicine in Cuba (2024) symbolizes the maturity of a public health project with 42 years of history. Emerging as a visionary innovation and supported since its inception, the specialty has proven to be a fundamental pillar of the health system, guaranteeing coverage with personalized, family-centered care. However, it faces unprecedented challenges such as population aging, chronicity and the need for technological integration. This editorial argues that the name change should catalyze a strategic reinvestment in four key areas: curricular updating, first-level technological empowerment, promotion of PHC research and professional revaluation. Its strengthening is an essential condition for the future of Primary Health Care in the country.

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References

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Published

2026-01-15

How to Cite

1.
Placeres-Hernández JF, Estrada-Rodríguez Y. Family Medicine: an essential and growing specialty. MedEst [Internet]. 2026 Jan. 15 [cited 2026 Feb. 1];6:e473. Available from: https://revmedest.sld.cu/index.php/medest/article/view/473

Issue

Vol. 6 (2026): Continuous Publication

Section

EDITORIAL

License

Copyright (c) 2026 José Fernando Placeres-Hernández , Yonathan Estrada-Rodríguez

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