Alzheimer's Care in Cuba Travel, Protocols & Cost
Everything American families need to know about traveling to Cuba for Alzheimer's neurorehabilitation — flight routes, visa process, CIREN's intensive therapy model, program costs, and how US insurance works abroad.
Educational Resource — Not Medical Advice
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about treatment options.
We do not target, identify, or retarget individuals based on health conditions. This content is intended for families and caregivers seeking information about international treatment options, and is discoverable through organic search.
Travel Logistics from US to Cuba
Traveling to Cuba for medical care requires planning, but our international patient coordinators handle every logistical detail. Here's what American families can expect when traveling to CIREN in Havana.
Flights from US Cities
Direct flights to Havana (HAV) depart from Miami (MIA), Tampa (TPA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), and New York (JFK). Flight time from Miami is approximately 1 hour. Our coordinators help identify the best route from your departure city.
Medical Visa & Documentation
US travelers need a valid passport and a Cuban health visa (not a tourist card). Our team processes the health visa on your behalf — you submit passport copies and medical records, and we handle the application with Cuban immigration.
Airport Reception
A bilingual coordinator meets you at José Martí International Airport, assists with customs, and provides private ground transportation to your accommodation near CIREN. No navigating unfamiliar airports or taxis.
Accommodation Near CIREN
We arrange comfortable, family-friendly accommodation within walking distance or a short drive of CIREN. Options include partner guesthouses and hotels with kitchenettes, suitable for multi-week stays with a companion.
Companion Travel
We strongly encourage a family member or caregiver to accompany Alzheimer's patients. Companion travel, accommodation, and meals are coordinated as part of your package. Family education sessions are included in the program.
What to Pack
Current medications in original packaging (with prescriptions), medical records on USB or paper, comfortable clothing for daily therapy, walking shoes, and any mobility aids. A detailed packing list is provided before departure.
Planning Timeline
Submit medical records for eligibility review
Receive personalized treatment plan & cost estimate
Visa processing, flight booking, accommodation arranged
Travel to Havana and begin treatment program
Neurorehabilitation Protocols in Cuba
Cuba's International Center for Neurological Restoration (CIREN) delivers an intensive, multidisciplinary neurorehabilitation model that is distinctive in its daily therapy intensity — 4 to 6 hours of structured therapy every day, coordinated by a full team of specialists.
A Typical Day at CIREN
Program at a Glance
NeuralCIM® Neuroprotective Therapy
Cuba's biotechnology innovation — a low-sialic-acid erythropoietin developed by the Center for Molecular Immunology (CIM). Administered as part of the program to support neurotrophic and neuroprotective mechanisms. Not available in the United States.
Cognitive Rehabilitation
Structured, evidence-based exercises targeting memory, attention, language, and executive function. Delivered by neuropsychologists who adjust difficulty based on ongoing cognitive assessment.
Physical Therapy
Focused on preserving mobility, balance, and physical safety — reducing fall risk and maintaining independence in movement for as long as possible.
Occupational Therapy
Supports the ability to perform everyday tasks — dressing, eating, personal care — adapting techniques and environment to maintain functional independence.
Speech-Language Therapy
Addresses communication preservation, language processing, and swallowing safety — common concerns as Alzheimer's progresses.
Psychological & Family Support
Individual counseling, caregiver education, and family support sessions throughout the program. Families learn techniques to continue rehabilitation principles at home.
Cost & Insurance Guidance for US Families
Treatment in Cuba is a private-pay medical program. This section provides transparent guidance on what costs to expect, what's included, and how US insurance works (and doesn't work) for international treatment.
What's Included
- Neurologist consultations and ongoing medical supervision
- NeuralCIM® neuroprotective therapy administration
- All daily rehabilitation sessions (cognitive, physical, occupational, speech)
- Diagnostic tests and neuropsychological assessments
- Medications prescribed during the program
- Accommodation for patient and one companion
- Airport reception and all ground transportation in Cuba
- Bilingual coordination and translation services
- Family education and caregiver training sessions
Not Included
- International airfare (US to Havana)
- Cuban health visa fee (approximately $30–50, processed by our team)
- Meals beyond what's included with accommodation
- Personal expenses and incidentals
- Post-program medications to take home (available for separate purchase)
How US Insurance Works Abroad
Medicare generally does not cover medical care received outside the United States. Treatment in Cuba is a private-pay program.
Most US private health insurance plans do not cover international elective treatment. Some plans offer limited international coverage — check your policy's 'out-of-network international' or 'emergency abroad' provisions.
If you have an HSA or FSA, international medical treatment may qualify as a medical expense. Consult your plan administrator and a tax advisor about eligible uses and documentation requirements.
We recommend purchasing separate medical travel insurance for trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and travel-related coverage. This is distinct from the treatment program cost.
Bank Wire Transfer
The most common method for international patients. Our coordinators provide detailed wire instructions after the medical review and cost estimate.
Installment Planning
For multi-week programs, we can structure payment in installments aligned with program phases. Discuss options with your coordinator during planning.
Cryptocurrency
We accept select cryptocurrency payments (TRC20). A dedicated crypto payment portal is available for families who prefer this method.
Cost Context
US dementia care costs average $409 billion annually, with per-patient costs often exceeding $50,000–$90,000 per year for advanced care. Cuba's intensive neurorehabilitation program offers a different model — a focused, time-limited intensive program rather than ongoing annual costs. A detailed, personalized cost estimate is provided after medical review, as each program is individualized.
Your Questions Answered
Request a Free Clinical Evaluation
Share your medical information with our neuro-care team and receive a personalized evaluation — often within 24–48 hours. No obligation, no travel required to get started.