Ecuador’s health system is seen as one of the most efficient globally in terms of life expectancy and relative and absolute health spending. Healthcare is covered by the public and private sectors, and a national health system provides free medical care to all residents, regardless of income. However, the country still struggles with shortages of staff, medicines and equipment, and healthcare coverage is much lower in rural areas. Low-income communities are also vulnerable to malnutrition, poor sanitation and weak preventative measures.
