The Cuban state guarantees free medical assistance to the people as well as social security benefits. In general, 23.7% of the 1,352,165 pensioners in 1995 were disabled and, of disabled pensioners, more than 50% had disabilities secondary to rheumatic diseases. Expenses associated with public health reached 1382, 9 million pesos. Cuba has one rheumatologist for each 150,000 inhabitants throughout the country. The development of post-graduate teaching over the last 12 years has produced 125 rheumatologists. Major national attention is directed at the disabled elderly patients with musculoskeletal disease, with important roles of the Cuban Rheumatological Society and the Cuban Action Program for the Attention of the Handicapped. Arthroscopy has developed as a prominent technique used by Cuban rheumatologists. Objective evaluations of its impact may lead to expanded use in other countries. The Cuban Rheumatical Society has been working systematically in training rheumatologists and educating patients to minimize the impact of rheumatic diseases in Cuba.