The Shortage of Local Anesthesia and Palliative Care Medications in Minor Postoperative Orthopedic Surgical Procedures in Ecuador

Abstract

This white paper discusses the Ecuadorian healthcare system specifically the lack of proper anesthesia and post-operative pain medication and touches base with centralized hospitals. This paper articulates the specific problems inhibiting the usage of these proper medications, specifically looking at a hospital in Quito, Ecuador. Present day tribal situations are also discussed as they are a significant part of the population that is affected by the shortages of pain medication and anesthesia. Solutions are presented to solve the problems the country faces and how it is relevant today.