What is SMC International?

SMC International connects international patients with 50+ expert doctors across 8 crucial wellness and investment pages, simplifying global healthcare access.

Is NeuroEPO approved by the FDA?

No. NeuroEPO is not FDA-approved and is not available in the United States. It is used within research protocols at Cuban neuroscience institutions. American patients should understand that NeuroEPO is investigational — it is not a cure, and individual outcomes vary. It is offered as part of a comprehensive program including intensive rehabilitation, not as a standalone treatment.

How does Cuba's approach compare to lecanemab (Leqembi) or donanemab (Kisunla)?

Lecanemab and donanemab are FDA-approved anti-amyloid drugs for mild Alzheimer's that target amyloid plaques. They cost $26,000–$32,000+/year and carry ARIA risks. Cuba's approach is different — it focuses on intensive cognitive rehabilitation (4–6 hours daily), neuroprotective research with NeuroEPO, pharmacological management, and caregiver education. The approaches are not mutually exclusive; some patients may benefit from both.

Does U.S. health insurance or Medicare cover treatment in Cuba?

No. Medicare, Medicaid, and U.S. private health insurance typically do not cover treatment in Cuba. Patients are responsible for the full cost. However, HSA/FSA funds may be usable — consult your plan administrator. Medical expenses may also be tax-deductible if they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.

What is the Alzheimer's caregiver support program in Cuba?

Caregiver education is a mandatory, core component of the Cuban Alzheimer's program at CIREN. Caregivers receive hands-on training in cognitive stimulation, daily routine management, communication strategies, behavioral management, safety, and self-care. A comprehensive written guide is provided for ongoing reference at home.

How long is the Alzheimer's treatment program in Cuba?

Intensive programs typically last 4–8 weeks, depending on the patient's cognitive stage, overall health, and treatment goals. The duration is determined by the multidisciplinary medical team following the initial evaluation. Longer programs may be recommended for more advanced cases.

For Illinois Families

Alzheimer's Clinical Evaluation

Alzheimer's Evaluation in Cuba for Illinois Families

Cuba's Alzheimer's evaluation program provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary clinical assessment — neuropsychological testing, brain MRI review, blood work, and a full-day multidisciplinary team evaluation. For American families seeking an independent, in-depth assessment of their loved one's cognitive condition. Illinois has approximately 230,000 residents with Alzheimer's. Illinois has a large Alzheimer's population concentrated in the Chicago metro area. O'Hare International Airport offers multiple daily connecting flights to Havana via Miami, Toronto, or Mexico City, with total travel times under 6 hours.

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Alzheimer's Evaluation in Cuba in Cuba for Illinois patients

230K

Illinois residents with Alzheimer's

16%

population aged 65+

5–6 hours (connecting via Miami or Toronto)

to Havana

Connecting

flights available

What the Alzheimer's Evaluation Includes

A comprehensive evaluation is the foundation of Cuba's Alzheimer's program. Without an accurate understanding of the patient's cognitive stage, type of dementia, and overall health, no treatment plan can be effective. Cuba's evaluation is more comprehensive than what most U.S. patients receive in a standard neurology appointment.

The evaluation includes: neuropsychological testing (a detailed assessment of memory, attention, language, executive function, and visuospatial skills), brain MRI review (to assess brain atrophy, vascular changes, and rule out other causes), comprehensive blood work (to rule out reversible causes of cognitive decline and assess overall health), and a multidisciplinary team assessment (neurologist, neuropsychologist, rehabilitation specialist, and internist).

Following the evaluation, the medical team provides a comprehensive report with the diagnosis, cognitive stage, treatment recommendations, and a personalized rehabilitation plan. This report is shared with the patient's U.S. neurologist for coordinated care. The evaluation is particularly valuable for patients with uncertain diagnoses, early-stage cognitive decline, or those seeking a second opinion before committing to a full treatment program.

No treatment currently cures Alzheimer's disease. Cuba's program aims to slow cognitive decline, maintain function, and improve quality of life. NeuroEPO is investigational and not FDA-approved. Treatment suitability is determined after individual medical evaluation. Individual outcomes vary.

Travel from Illinois to Cuba

Getting to Havana from Illinois

Illinois has a large Alzheimer's population concentrated in the Chicago metro area. O'Hare International Airport offers multiple daily connecting flights to Havana via Miami, Toronto, or Mexico City, with total travel times under 6 hours.

Departure Airports

Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Chicago Midway (MDW)
St. Louis (STL)

Travel time: 5–6 hours (connecting via Miami or Toronto)

Travel Authorization

• U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba under approved categories
• SMC Salud provides letter of medical necessity
• Treatment confirmation documentation included
• Airport reception and ground transport in Havana
• English-speaking coordinators throughout your stay

Serving families across Illinois:

ChicagoAuroraNapervilleJolietRockfordSpringfieldElgin

More Alzheimer's & Dementia Topics

Related Alzheimer's & Dementia Treatment Options

Alzheimer's Treatment in Cuba in Illinois

Alzheimer's treatment in Cuba for American patients — NeuroEPO neuroprotective research, intensive cognitive rehabilitation at CIREN, and comprehensive clinical evaluation. Travel authorization, HSA/FSA, English coordinators.

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Alzheimer's Rehabilitation in Cuba in Illinois

Alzheimer's rehabilitation in Cuba — 4–6 hours of daily multidisciplinary therapy at CIREN for American patients. Cognitive rehabilitation, neuropsychology, occupational therapy, and physical therapy in an intensive 4–8 week program.

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Alzheimer's Second Opinion from Cuba in Illinois

Seek a second opinion for Alzheimer's from Cuba's neurology team — independent review of neuropsychological testing, MRI, and medical history. For American families exploring treatment options beyond domestic care.

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Cognitive Rehabilitation in Cuba in Illinois

Cognitive rehabilitation for Alzheimer's in Cuba — intensive daily therapy at CIREN targeting memory, attention, language, and executive function. 4–6 hours per day for 4–8 weeks for U.S. patients.

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Dementia Rehabilitation in Cuba in Illinois

Dementia rehabilitation in Cuba for U.S. patients — intensive multidisciplinary therapy at CIREN for Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. 4–6 hours daily for 4–8 weeks.

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Alzheimer's International Patient Program in Illinois

Alzheimer's international patient program in Cuba — medical review, travel coordination, intensive treatment, caregiver training, accommodation, and telemedicine follow-up. Full-service program for American families.

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Alzheimer's Care for U.S. Patients in Illinois

Alzheimer's care in Cuba designed for American patients — English coordinators, travel authorization support, HSA/FSA guidance, telemedicine follow-up, and coordination with U.S. neurologists.

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Alzheimer's Treatment Options in Cuba in Illinois

Complete guide to Alzheimer's treatment options in Cuba — NeuroEPO, intensive cognitive rehabilitation, pharmacological management, caregiver training, and comprehensive evaluation. For American families exploring options.

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Early Alzheimer's Evaluation in Cuba in Illinois

Early Alzheimer's evaluation in Cuba for American patients — early-stage cognitive assessment, mild cognitive impairment evaluation, and personalized treatment planning. Early diagnosis enables more treatment options.

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Available in Your State

Alzheimer's Evaluation in Cuba by U.S. State

Florida

580K

Texas

400K

California

720K

New York

410K

Pennsylvania

280K

Ohio

220K

Michigan

190K

Georgia

150K

North Carolina

180K

Illinois

230K

Louisiana

89K

Maryland

110K

Mississippi

57K

South Carolina

95K

Oklahoma

67K

Southeastern United States

1.1M

Southern United States

1.4M

Eastern United States

3.2M

East Coast

2.2M

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions from Illinois Families

Yes. U.S. citizens can travel to Cuba under approved categories. SMC Salud provides all necessary documentation, including the letter of medical necessity and treatment confirmation, to support travel authorization. Our team guides you through the entire process to ensure compliance with all regulations.

Ready to Explore Alzheimer's Evaluation in Cuba in Cuba?

Submit your medical records for a complimentary review. Illinois families receive a personalized treatment proposal within 5–10 business days.

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