A Guide to Navigating Healthcare in Cuenca

Navigating a new country's healthcare system can be challenging, especially when you're still getting the hang of a new language and culture. For expats in Cuenca, understanding how to access public healthcare services is essential. The good news is that Ecuador's public health system offers several convenient ways to schedule a medical appointment. Here's a comprehensive guide, with all the details you'll need.

There are three main ways to schedule an appointment with the public health system in Cuenca: through phone, online channels, or in person. For all methods, it is highly recommended to have your Ecuadorian ID number (cédula) handy. Even if you don't have one, you can still receive service, but you must have a physical identification document with you for data validation.

There are three main ways to schedule an appointment with the public health system in Cuenca: through phone, online channels, or in person. For all methods, it is highly recommended to have your Ecuadorian ID number (cédula) handy. Even if you don't have one, you can still receive service, but you must have a physical identification document with you for data validation.

These channels are available 24/7, offering flexibility to book at your convenience. You can use any of the following platforms:

• WhatsApp: [Click here]

• Website: [Click here]

• Facebook Messenger: [Click here]

• Mobile App: SaludEc

The steps for all virtual channels are similar:

• Access the link or app.

• Enter your Ecuadorian ID number (cédula).

• Validate your identity by confirming the date your cédula was issued or your date of birth.

• Select "Schedule an appointment".

• Specify who the appointment is for.

• Choose the service you require.

• Select the reason for your visit.

• Pick your preferred date and time.

• A confirmation with your appointment details will appear.

Important Note: If you lose your appointment details, you can always retrieve them on any of these virtual channels, as they are available 24 hours a day.

For those who prefer face-to-face interaction, you can get a medical appointment by visiting a health center directly.

• Go to the admissions area of the nearest health center to your home.

• Request an appointment for the service you need.

• You will be given a date and time for your appointment.

For Individuals with Hearing Impairments: The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) has a special video call channel for those with hearing disabilities. To access this service, you must have your disability officially certified and registered on your cédula.

• To get started, click the following link: https://www.citas.med.ec/.

Hospital Vicente Corral Moscoso (Cuenca): The Vicente Corral Moscoso Hospital in Cuenca has advised patients to check their appointments periodically as dates may change. You can review your appointments 24/7 at this link: http://servicios.hvcm.gob.ec/SICM_HVCM/page1.do. You can also find this link on the institutional website under the menu in the top left.

If you are an IESS (Ecuadorian Social Security Institute) affiliate, or affiliated with ISSPOL (Police) or ISSFA (Armed Forces), you must go to the admissions desk after finishing your appointment to submit the required documents. To check your appointments and lab results on the hospital's website, you'll need your ID number or clinical history number. If you don't remember your clinical history number, you can request it at the external consultation desk.

Filing Complaints and Suggestions: If you have any questions, suggestions, complaints, or feedback, there are several ways to get in touch:

• For general inquiries about the service, you can email Silvia Salazar at silviaa.salazar@msp.gob.ec, extension 1109.

• For feedback on improving services, call the free 171 hotline and select Option 3.

• You can also visit the district offices, zonal coordination offices, or the central plant's public service windows to address any concerns in person.

Additionally, the IESS has set up two channels for complaints and reports to fight corruption within the institution. Both are available 24/7:

• Phone Number: 0962532338

• Website: http://denuncias.iess.gob.ec