As a foreigner living in Loja, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

We asked expats in Loja if they have access to public healthcare in Loja. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Loja, you will have access to public healthcare. The Ecuadorian government provides universal healthcare to all residents, including foreigners. However, it's important to note that while healthcare in Ecuador is generally affordable and of good quality, it may not be up to the standards you are used to in your home country. The public healthcare system in Ecuador is known as the Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS). To access this, you will need to contribute a percentage of your income. The system covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications. In terms of quality, the healthcare in larger cities and towns like Loja is generally better than in rural areas. Hospitals and clinics in these areas are typically well-equipped and staffed with trained medical professionals. However, there may be long wait times for non-emergency procedures and services. Language can also be a barrier as not all healthcare professionals speak English. Therefore, it might be helpful to learn some basic Spanish or have a translator. While the public healthcare system is accessible, many expats choose to also have private health insurance for more immediate access to specialists and private hospitals. Private healthcare in Ecuador is also relatively affordable compared to many other countries. In conclusion, while public healthcare is available and generally of good quality, it's important to be prepared for potential challenges such as language barriers and long wait times," commented one expat who made the move to Loja, Ecuador.

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"Permanent residents in Ecuador can enroll in public healthcare system or get private insurance at any age. The cost for public system is about $80 a month and pre-existing conditions are covered after 2 months. There are public hospitals in major cities and some smaller towns. The quality care may depend on the area but many expats in Ecuador enroll in the system due to low cost," remarked another expat in Loja, Ecuador.