Bioethical fundamentions and potential of the National Network of Palliative Care Specialists in Cuba
Keywords:
Bioethics; Continuity of Patient Care; Integrative Palliative Care; Palliative Medicine; Bioethical Issues; Medicina PaliativaAbstract
Introduction: bioethics is the foundation of the continuous palliative care model in Cuba, being essential in the approach of healthcare professionals.
Objectives: to analyze the bioethical foundation in the formation of a National Network of Palliative Care Specialists in Cuba and the main projections for continuous improvement.
Methods: a bibliographic review was carried out, complemented with historical-logical analysis. National databases and institutional documents published between 2010 and 2024 were consulted, using keywords such as “bioethics,” “palliative care,” and “continuous care.” After applying the selection criteria, the existing sources were identified and analyzed through a comparative matrix of bioethical principles and moral values.
Results: the findings were organized into three stages. The first (2010–2021) identified gaps such as absence in the Palliative Care Atlas, unequal provincial development, and limited training. The second (2021–2023) consolidated the continuous palliative care model as a link of unity and commitment, with community actions and national leadership. The third (2024–2025) evidenced the full integration of all provinces, the creation of honorary chairs, courses and workshops, as well as the formalization of the Network’s identity through a representative logo. The Cuban palliative care specialist was defined as a professional characterized by respect, solidarity, justice, and responsibility, framed within bioethical principles.
Conclusions: National Network of Palliative Care Specialists in Cuba has a clear foundation in bioethics, promotes unity and commitment among all its members, and represents an opportunity for transdisciplinary improvement and the development of Palliative Medicine in the country.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Celita Mairely Celada Cifuentes, Anadely Gámez Pérez, Gisela Díaz Pita, Yohima Rubio Nerey, Iyemai Rodríguez Hernández, Lena Alonso Triana, Javier García Gutierrez
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