The evolution of socioeconomic health inequalities in Ecuador during a public health system reform (2006–2014)

Abstract

One of the challenges in international health care policy is the reduction of health inequalities. We study the case of a recent health care reform in Ecuador, based on a revised model of public provision and financing of comprehensive care. The policy challenged not only the health care system but also key determinants of health, seeking to grant access and reduce persistent inequalities in utilization of health care services. This study evaluates the progress made on the socioeconomic health inequalities before and after reforms, between 2006 and 2014.