For Southeastern United States FamiliesAvoiding Diabetic Foot Amputation — Cuba's Prevention Program in Southeastern United States
The Southeastern United States — including Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina, and neighboring states — is home to over 1.1 million Americans living with Alzheimer's. This region has some of the highest Alzheimer's prevalence rates in the nation, driven by large senior populations, significant African American communities (who face disproportionately high dementia risk), and high diabetes rates that compound cognitive decline. Miami, Tampa, and Fort Lauderdale offer the most convenient direct charter flights to Havana, while Atlanta, Charlotte, and New Orleans provide connecting flight options.
7.0M
Southeastern United States residents with diabetes
6
states in region
1–5 hours (varies by departure city)
to Havana
Direct
flights available
Cuba's Amputation Prevention Approach Across Southeastern United States
Diabetic foot amputation is a devastating outcome that affects approximately 200,000 Americans each year. In the United States, amputation is often presented as the only option when chronic ulcers don't heal, infections spread, or tissue death occurs. But amputation is not inevitable — with comprehensive, intensive treatment, many diabetic foot ulcers can be healed and amputation prevented.
Cuba's amputation prevention program is built on a different philosophy: healing first, amputation last. The program includes: aggressive wound care (frequent debridement, Heberprot-P intralesional growth factor therapy, specialized dressings), infection management (targeted antibiotics, surgical debridement of infected tissue), vascular assessment and optimization (Doppler, angiography, referral for revascularization if blood flow is inadequate for healing), off-loading (total contact casting to remove all pressure from the wound), metabolic management (blood sugar optimization, nutritional support), and rehabilitation (to restore mobility after healing).
The program is most effective for patients with Wagner grade 1–3 ulcers — moderate to severe ulcers that have not yet progressed to extensive tissue death. For patients with more advanced wounds (Wagner grade 4–5), the program may still help, but outcomes are less certain. A medical record review can determine whether the program is appropriate for your specific case. No treatment can guarantee amputation prevention in all cases, but Cuba's comprehensive approach offers an additional option before considering amputation as the only solution.
Heberprot-P is not FDA-approved and is not available in the United States. It is not a cure for diabetes. Treatment aims to promote wound healing and prevent amputation. Treatment suitability is determined after individual medical evaluation. Individual outcomes vary.
State-by-State Guides
Avoiding Diabetic Foot Amputation — Cuba's Prevention Program by State in Southeastern United States
Select your state for detailed information about avoiding diabetic foot amputation — cuba's prevention program options, travel logistics, and state-specific resources.
City-Level Guides
Avoiding Diabetic Foot Amputation — Cuba's Prevention Program by City in Southeastern United States
Travel from Southeastern United States
Getting to Havana from Southeastern United States
Major Departure Airports
- Miami (MIA)
- Tampa (TPA)
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Charlotte (CLT)
- New Orleans (MSY)
Travel time: 1–5 hours (varies by departure city)
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions from Southeastern United States 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 Avoiding Diabetic Foot Amputation — Cuba's Prevention Program in Cuba?
Submit your medical records for a complimentary review. Families across Southeastern United States receive a personalized treatment proposal within 5–10 business days.