Ecuador's Healthcare System Ranked 3rd in Latin America by WHO Report
Chip Moreno
If affordable, quality healthcare is one of the reasons you moved to Ecuador -- or are thinking about it -- a newly released World Health Organization report offers some reassuring numbers. Ecuador now ranks third in all of Latin America for healthcare accessibility and quality, a notable leap from seventh place just four years ago.
The Regional Rankings
- Costa Rica -- 87.3 points
- Chile -- 85.1 points
- Ecuador -- 82.7 points
- Uruguay -- 81.4 points
- Colombia -- 79.8 points
What Is Driving Ecuador's Rise
The WHO report pointed to several strengths that have propelled Ecuador up the rankings:
- Broad public coverage: The IESS (social security) system extends healthcare to all legal residents, including foreign nationals with a cedula
- Strong medical workforce: Urban centers like Quito, Cuenca, and Guayaquil boast a high concentration of doctors and specialists
- Modern facilities: Major hospitals in all three cities have undergone significant upgrades in recent years
- Affordability: Private healthcare costs run 60 to 80 percent below comparable services in the United States
How the System Works for Expats
Foreign residents with legal status can enroll in IESS by making monthly contributions based on declared income. The minimum monthly payment sits around $80 and covers a wide range of services, from primary care to surgery.
In practice, many expats use a hybrid approach: they maintain IESS enrollment for major procedures and emergencies while paying out of pocket for routine private visits, where wait times are shorter and English-speaking staff are sometimes available.
Dental Care Is a Standout
Ecuador has also emerged as a popular destination for dental work, with procedures priced at a fraction of what patients would pay in the US or Europe. Crowns, implants, and cosmetic dentistry draw both residents and visitors seeking quality care at accessible prices.