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Calabria Governor Seeks Alternatives Amid Cuban Doctor Controversy

2/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Roberto Occhiuto, the governor of Calabria, told U.S. diplomat Mike Hammer that Cuban doctors are essential to keep local hospitals running amid U.S. efforts to halt Cuban medics.
He plans to review hiring practices and seek medical staff from other regions as Calabria faces a persistent staff shortage worsened by low salaries and competition for specialists.
Occhiuto had aimed to increase Cuban doctors to 1,000 but is now exploring alternative recruitment options.
The United States has labeled Cuba's medical missions as human trafficking, a claim Cuba and Occhiuto reject.

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Story summary

Roberto Occhiuto, the governor of Calabria, told U.S. diplomat Mike Hammer that Cuban doctors are essential to keep local hospitals running amid U.S. efforts to halt Cuban medics.
He plans to review hiring practices and seek medical staff from other regions as Calabria faces a persistent staff shortage worsened by low salaries and competition for specialists.
Occhiuto had aimed to increase Cuban doctors to 1,000 but is now exploring alternative recruitment options.
The United States has labeled Cuba's medical missions as human trafficking, a claim Cuba and Occhiuto reject.