Ecuador’s public health system, the IESS, is facing one of its worst crises in history. More than 13,000 patients are currently waiting for surgery, and in cities like Cuenca, the delay can exceed one full year. At hospitals such as José Carrasco Arteaga, hundreds of patients remain on a waiting list that seems endless.
Medical appointments often take 30 to 90 days to schedule, and the shortage of specialists in key areas like traumatology and ophthalmology only deepens the problem. This happens even though members —both employees and voluntary affiliates— contribute monthly to the system.
If you’re an expat currently affiliated with the IESS, keep in mind that this system does not guarantee immediate attention, and its hospital network doesn’t always cover emergencies or procedures outside your area. Many expats come to Ecuador believing the IESS will be enough, only to discover that waiting months for medical care can cost more than maintaining a private plan.
At BlueBox Insurance Advisors, with over 13 years of experience and more than 2,000 active members, we believe that your health should never depend on waiting times, but on how much you value your well-being.
Before making any decision about your coverage, get informed, compare, and choose consciously. Combining your IESS affiliation with a private insurance plan isn’t an extra expense — it’s an investment in your peace of mind, your health, and the people you love.
Carolina Anabel
blueboxoperationsmanager@gmail.com
City: Manta
