Rubio has accused officials in the program of being involved in human trafficking and labor exploitation, accusations denied by Cuba and many Caribbean leaders, who say the Cuban medical programs are essential and comply with international labor laws.

Jamaica on Wednesday rebuffed a push by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to sever a program that brings in Cuban doctors, who have become critical to health care in fellow Caribbean countries

Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday pledged to work with Jamaica on its employment of Cuban doctors who have been an important part of the country’s health system , and to also review the State Department’s travel warning urging Americans to reconsider travel to the Caribbean nation.