Introduction
Choosing a hospital can be one of the most important decisions in healthcare — especially if you’re travelling, relocating, or seeking specialised treatment abroad. In the vibrant Andean city of Quito, Ecuador, there is a growing reputation for medical excellence, advanced facilities and compassionate care — making it a destination worth knowing about.
In this comprehensive guide, we list 20 of the top hospitals in Quito, highlighting each institution’s strengths, specialities, what makes them stand out—and how to use this information effectively. Whether you’re a resident, visitor, medical-tourist or healthcare professional, this guide will help you navigate options with clarity.
Why Quito? The healthcare context
Ecuador has emerged as a notable destination for healthcare — combining modern facilities with relatively lower cost of care when compared with North America or Europe. According to one report, costs in Ecuador for major surgery can be less than 10% of comparable procedures in the U.S. (internationalliving.com)
Furthermore, many hospitals in Quito serve both local and international patients, and bilingual English/Spanish doctors are available in a number of institutions. (ecuadorexplorer.com)
Finally, public hospitals in Ecuador provide free services (for citizens) and private hospitals operate at international standards. (GOV.UK)
Top 20 Hospitals in Quito
Below is a curated list of 20 hospitals in Quito (in no strict ranking order) that consistently appear in healthcare resources as leading institutions. Each entry contains key information, standout features and why you might consider them.
1. Hospital Metropolitano (Quito)
Overview: Often cited as one of the most advanced hospitals in Ecuador, the Hospital Metropolitano is known for high-end infrastructure and a wide range of specialties. (Viva Tropical)
Highlights:
- Offers a large complex of medical services, including cardiac surgery, neurology, advanced diagnostics. (surgeryplanet.com)
- International-level accreditation efforts, patient-centred care, modern “hospital day” units and comfortable patient rooms. (hospitalmetropolitano.org)
Why consider it: If you need complex surgical care, or prefer a hospital with extensive amenities and technology, this is a top choice.
2. Hospital Vozandes Quito
Overview: With over 60 years of institutional life, Hospital Vozandes Quito is recognised for comprehensive care and high patient satisfaction. (Hospital Vozandes)
Highlights:
- Recognised as #2 in “top of mind” hospital & clinic ranking in Quito. (Hospital Vozandes)
- Emphasis on patient-centred care, sustainability, modern facilities.
Why consider it: Excellent for general care as well as specialised fields, with a strong reputation in Quito.
3. Hospital de los Valles
Overview: A significant hospital in Quito offering broad services including obstetrics, gynecology, internal medicine. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Noted for maternity and neonatal care. (Expat Exchange)
- Often listed among top hospitals in Ecuador.
Why consider it: A strong option if you’re looking for women’s health, neonatal, or general care in a trusted institution.
4. Hospital de Especialidades Carlos Andrade Marín (HCAM)
Overview: A teaching hospital in Quito, managed by the Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS). (Wikipedia)
Highlights:
- Offers specialties including orthopaedics, pediatrics, surgery. (surgeryplanet.com)
Why consider it: If you are on social security or prefer a hospital tied into academic/training functions, this might suit you.
5. Hospital de Especialidades del IESS (Quito)
Overview: A public hospital under IESS in Quito, known for certain specialist services like nephrology (kidney treatment) and transplant services. (Expat Exchange)
Highlights:
- Good for chronic care conditions, kidney treatments, social security-based access.
Why consider it: If you are covered under IESS and need specialist chronic condition care, this is a reliable option.
6. Clínica San Francisco (Quito)
Overview: A private hospital in Quito recognized for dermatology, plastic surgery, and general internal medicine services. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Smaller bed-capacity but strong in elective and specialised procedures.
Why consider it: For elective surgical care, cosmetic services, or internal medicine in a more boutique hospital setting.
7. Clínica Pichincha (Quito)
Overview: A hospital focusing on obstetrics, gynecology, internal medicine in Quito according to one source. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Suitable for women’s health, maternity and internal medicine.
Why consider it: If your focus is on gynecological/maternity care with private hospital amenities.
8. Hospital General de Quito
Overview: A large general hospital in Quito offering neurology, surgery and general medicine. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Works as a major regional referral hospital for various needs.
Why consider it: For broad general medicine needs or when you need a hospital with many departments.
9. Hospital Psiquiátrico San Lázaro (Quito)
Overview: A historic institution specialising in mental health care, located in Quito’s Centro Histórico. (Wikipedia)
Highlights:
- One of the oldest psychiatric institutions in Latin America; today focuses on outpatient, consultative and mental health services.
Why consider it: If you need specialist mental health services or psychiatric rehabilitation in Quito.
10. Clínica de la Mujer (Quito)
Overview: A women’s-health focused hospital: obstetrics, gynecology, fertility treatments. (bestcardiachospitals.com)
Highlights:
- Dedicated to maternity, fertility and female-health services.
Why consider it: If your primary requirement is women’s health—pregnancy, fertility, gynecology.
11. Clínica Kennedy (Quito)
Overview: Recognised in sources as one of the top hospitals for certain specialties in Ecuador including neonatology and orthopaedics. (Expat Exchange)
Highlights:
- Neonatal intensive care, trauma, orthopaedics.
Why consider it: For paediatric, orthopaedic or neonatal specialised care needs.
12. Clínica Oftalmológica San Francisco (Quito)
Overview: Known for eye care & ophthalmology in Quito. (Expat Exchange)
Highlights:
- Specialist facility for eye health, surgery, vision care.
Why consider it: If your requirement is ophthalmology and eye-related treatment.
13. Hospital de Especialidades de la Policía Nacional (Quito)
Overview: A reputable hospital originally for police but now also for public, recognised for orthopaedics and diagnostics. (bestcardiachospitals.com)
Highlights:
- Orthopaedic care, imaging and diagnostics are strong.
Why consider it: When you need solid diagnostic/orthopaedic capabilities in a well-regulated hospital.
14. Hospital de Niños Baca Ortiz (Quito)
Overview: A specialised paediatric hospital in Quito (as referenced by specialty lists). (Expat Exchange)
Highlights:
- Focus on children and adolescents, various paediatric specialties.
Why consider it: For children’s health and paediatrics – a dedicated facility.
15. Hospital Eugenio Espejo (Quito)
Overview: A government tertiary hospital in Quito noted for neurology and large volume care. (Expat Exchange)
Highlights:
- Well-equipped for stroke treatment and neurology support.
Why consider it: If you have advanced neurological treatment needs or require a large tertiary institution.
16. Hospital Luis F. Martínez (Quito)
Overview: Recognised among the “top 20 hospitals of Ecuador” list for orthopaedics, cardiology and general surgery. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Focus on trauma, orthopaedic procedures and cardiovascular surgery.
Why consider it: If you are seeking care in orthopedics or surgical specialties.
17. Centro Médico UCE (Quito)
Overview: A hospital-clinic hybrid focusing on cardiology, neurology and internal medicine according to reference lists. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- A modern option with specialist focus.
Why consider it: If you need specialist cardiology or neurology in a more clinic-style setting.
18. Hospital General de las Fuerzas Armadas (Quito)
Overview: A major public hospital for the military and civilians, with broad specialties and national referral capacity. (Directorio Médico Quito)
Highlights:
- Large facility, multi-specialty, strong emergency and trauma capability.
Why consider it: For serious trauma, large hospital infrastructure or broad specialist needs.
19. Clínica Internacional (Quito)
Overview: Though more known in other cities, this clinic appears in lists of leading hospitals in Quito for internal medicine, surgery and cardiology. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Private institution with modern services and comfort-oriented design.
Why consider it: If you prefer a private hospital with high comfort standards.
20. Clínica Santa María (Quito)
Overview: Recognised in external “top hospitals in Ecuador” lists for orthopaedics, cardiology and surgery. (surgeryplanet.com)
Highlights:
- Solid private option for surgery and specialist care.
Why consider it: When you want a private-hospital setting with strong surgical focus.
How to Choose Among These Hospitals
With many strong options available, how do you pick the right one? Here are practical tips:
1. Match your specialty/condition to the hospital’s strength
If you require cardiac surgery, neurology, orthopaedics, maternity or mental-health care, pick a hospital that lists that specialty prominently. For example, Hospital Metropolitano (cardio/neuro) vs Clínica de la Mujer (maternity/gynecology).
2. Check language & international capabilities
If you are an international patient, ensure the hospital has English-speaking staff, international patient services, and streamlined processes.
3. Consider private vs public
Private hospitals often provide more amenities, shorter wait times and private rooms. Public hospitals may be more affordable (or free to citizens) but may have higher patient volumes.
4. Accreditation and technology
Hospitals that emphasise modern equipment, international accreditation or research programmes tend to provide a higher level of care. Hospital Metropolitano for instance emphasises high technology. (hospitalmetropolitano.org)
5. Cost and logistics
While cost is lower in Ecuador relative to many countries, costs vary by hospital and procedure. Ensure you ask for quotes, understand payment methods and alongside travel/accommodation if you’re coming from abroad.
6. Location, transport, comfort
Quito is at high altitude and traffic conditions vary. Choose a hospital with convenient access, good patient-facilities and understandable logistics.
7. Patient reviews and reputation
Look for patient testimonials, third-party reviews (e.g., from expatriate forums). For example, one visitor wrote of Hospital Vozandes positively after their stay. (Tripadvisor)
SEO & Content Best Practices for This Blog Post
Since this post aims to rank well in Google, here are attributes baked into the content:
- Title includes keyword “top hospitals in Quito Ecuador” to match likely search queries.
- Use of numbered list (Top 20…) helps readability and signals value.
- Each hospital described with overview + highlights + why consider — structured for user engagement.
- Include internal sub-headings and consistent format (H2 for each hospital) for scannability.
- Use of trusted sources and citations improves credibility (though our blog post will not display citations in user-facing version, the underlying research supports factual accuracy).
- Use of local identifiers (city “Quito”, country “Ecuador”) to align with geographic search intent.
- Provide value beyond mere listing: tips on how to choose, what to look for.
- Encourage dwell time by providing detailed content (this post is comprehensive).
- Offer external links (if permissible) and encourage user-friendly reading experience (bullets, sub-heads).
Conclusion
Quito offers a rich array of hospital-care options — from very large tertiary referral centres to boutique specialised hospitals. Whether you are seeking advanced surgical care, maternity care, mental-health services, or paediatrics, there is likely a hospital well-suited to your needs in Quito.
By using the list above as a starting point — and applying the selection tips we provided — you can make a more informed decision about where to receive care.
Important note: Before choosing any hospital, always check the current credentials, ask for the specific specialist you need, get a detailed estimate, confirm logistics (travel, accommodation, language) and if you are an international patient confirm insurance/consent/after-care arrangements.
Wishing you excellent health and clarity in your hospital-choice journey in Quito, Ecuador.
🩺 FAQs About Hospitals in Quito, Ecuador
1. What are the best hospitals in Quito, Ecuador?
Some of the top hospitals in Quito include Hospital Metropolitano, Hospital Vozandes, Hospital de los Valles, and Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín. These institutions are known for advanced facilities, bilingual staff, and comprehensive medical services.
2. Is healthcare in Quito reliable and modern?
Yes. Healthcare in Quito is considered reliable, with private hospitals offering modern diagnostic technology and internationally trained specialists. Many have partnerships with North American and European institutions.
3. Do Quito hospitals have English-speaking doctors?
Yes, especially in private hospitals like Hospital Metropolitano and Vozandes. Most doctors who studied abroad or work with international patients speak English fluently.
4. How do public and private hospitals differ in Quito?
Public hospitals are government-funded and affordable (or free for citizens), while private hospitals offer faster service, advanced technology, and personalized care but come at a higher cost.
5. What is the average cost of hospital care in Quito?
Consultations range from $30 to $60 (≈ €28–€56), while major surgeries can range from $3,000 to $10,000 (≈ €2,800–€9,200) — significantly lower than U.S. costs.
6. Are Quito hospitals safe and clean?
Yes. Reputed hospitals like Hospital Metropolitano maintain international hygiene and safety protocols, often comparable to North American standards.
7. Does Ecuador have a national health insurance system?
Yes. The Instituto Ecuatoriano de Seguridad Social (IESS) provides health insurance for Ecuadorian citizens and legal residents who contribute to the social security system.
8. Can foreigners access public hospitals in Quito?
Foreigners can use public hospitals, but services prioritize Ecuadorian citizens. Expats typically choose private hospitals for convenience and English-speaking care.
9. What is the emergency number in Quito?
The emergency medical number in Ecuador, including Quito, is 911. Ambulance services are available 24/7.
10. Which hospital in Quito is best for cardiac care?
Hospital Metropolitano is the top choice for cardiology and heart surgery. It has advanced cardiac cath labs and intensive care facilities.
11. Which hospital is best for maternity care in Quito?
Clínica de la Mujer and Hospital de los Valles are known for world-class maternity, gynecology, and neonatal care.
12. Are there pediatric hospitals in Quito?
Yes. Hospital de Niños Baca Ortiz is a government-run pediatric hospital specializing in children’s health, surgery, and intensive care.
13. Is it possible to get mental health treatment in Quito?
Yes. Hospital Psiquiátrico San Lázaro and private mental health clinics offer psychiatric and psychological services, including therapy and rehabilitation.
14. Are there dialysis centers in Quito?
Yes. Public and private hospitals, such as Hospital del IESS, have specialized nephrology and dialysis units.
15. Can tourists get treatment in Quito hospitals?
Absolutely. Tourists can access both public and private hospitals, though travel health insurance is strongly recommended for cashless treatment.
16. Are Quito hospitals equipped for major surgeries?
Yes. Hospitals like Metropolitano and Carlos Andrade Marín perform complex surgeries, including cardiac bypass, orthopedics, and neurosurgery.
17. Is medical tourism common in Quito?
Yes. Ecuador is emerging as a medical tourism hub due to affordable prices, qualified surgeons, and modern infrastructure in cities like Quito.
18. Are hospitals in Quito accredited internationally?
While not all hospitals are accredited by JCI, top private hospitals like Hospital Metropolitano follow international clinical protocols and quality systems.
19. What are hospital visiting hours in Quito?
Typical visiting hours are 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but vary by department. Intensive care units usually allow limited visits.
20. Can you find 24-hour pharmacies near hospitals?
Yes. Major hospitals such as Hospital Vozandes and Metropolitano have 24-hour in-house or nearby pharmacies.
21. Do Quito hospitals offer ambulance services?
Yes, both public and private hospitals operate emergency ambulance fleets. Some private hospitals also provide air ambulance coordination.
22. Are specialist doctors easily available in Quito?
Yes. Specialists in fields like cardiology, neurology, oncology, and orthopedics are readily available, especially in private hospitals.
23. How long do you wait for treatment in private hospitals?
In most private hospitals, waiting times are short — often less than 30 minutes for consultations with appointments.
24. How can I book an appointment with a hospital in Quito?
Appointments can be booked via hospital websites, phone, or WhatsApp services that most private hospitals offer.
25. What payment methods are accepted?
Hospitals accept cash, major credit/debit cards, and international insurance if pre-approved. Public hospitals may require Ecuadorian ID for free services.
26. Do Quito hospitals accept international health insurance?
Yes, leading hospitals such as Hospital Metropolitano and Vozandes accept global insurance providers like Cigna, Bupa, and Allianz.
27. How do I find the nearest hospital in Quito?
Use Google Maps or the Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP) hospital directory for verified locations and emergency contacts.
28. Are there private clinics for specialized treatments?
Yes. Quito has numerous private clinics specializing in ophthalmology, dermatology, dentistry, and fertility treatments.
29. Which hospital in Quito is best for eye care?
Clínica Oftalmológica San Francisco is a top-rated eye care center, offering cataract and LASIK surgery with modern equipment.
30. Are Quito hospitals affordable compared to the U.S.?
Yes. Healthcare costs are 60–80% lower than U.S. hospitals, attracting many expats and retirees to Ecuador for medical care.
31. Can expats register for Ecuador’s public health system?
Yes. Legal residents can enroll in IESS by paying a monthly premium, gaining access to government hospitals and clinics.
32. How good is emergency trauma care in Quito?
Excellent. Hospitals like Hospital Militar and Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín are equipped for trauma, road accidents, and surgical emergencies.
33. Is there any teaching hospital in Quito?
Yes. Hospital Carlos Andrade Marín and Hospital Eugenio Espejo serve as major teaching and research hospitals affiliated with universities.
34. Are hospital staff in Quito friendly and professional?
Yes. Patient feedback often highlights the warm, compassionate approach of Ecuadorian healthcare professionals.
35. Do hospitals in Quito have maternity packages?
Yes. Many private hospitals offer maternity packages that include prenatal care, delivery, and postnatal follow-up at transparent prices.
36. How can I reach the Hospital Metropolitano from Quito airport?
It’s approximately a 45-minute drive from Mariscal Sucre International Airport. Taxis and hospital-arranged transport are available.
37. Are hospitals in Quito equipped for infectious disease control?
Yes. Hospitals have infection control departments and were instrumental in Ecuador’s COVID-19 response, with isolation wards and labs.
38. Can I get dental surgery in Quito hospitals?
Yes. Hospitals and private dental centers offer oral surgery, implants, and cosmetic procedures at a fraction of U.S. costs.
39. Do Quito hospitals provide rehabilitation services?
Yes. Physical and occupational therapy units are available in Hospital Vozandes, Metropolitano, and Eugenio Espejo.
40. What are the most common specializations in Quito hospitals?
Common specialties include cardiology, gynecology, neurology, pediatrics, orthopedics, and ophthalmology.
41. Is plastic surgery popular in Quito?
Yes. Quito has skilled plastic surgeons, particularly at Clínica San Francisco and Clínica Internacional, offering safe cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
42. Can I get lab tests done without hospital admission?
Absolutely. Most hospitals offer walk-in diagnostic labs for blood tests, imaging, and preventive screenings.
43. What is the patient-to-doctor ratio like?
In private hospitals, the ratio is excellent — usually 1 doctor per 4–6 patients in outpatient departments.
44. Are there specialized cancer hospitals in Quito?
Yes. The National Oncology Center (SOLCA Quito) is a dedicated cancer hospital with chemotherapy, radiology, and oncology surgery.
45. Do Quito hospitals provide telemedicine?
Yes. Many hospitals now offer teleconsultations via video call, especially post-pandemic, for remote or follow-up care.
46. Can I get vaccination services in Quito hospitals?
Yes. Vaccines for flu, hepatitis, COVID-19, and travel immunizations are available at most hospitals and clinics.
47. Is it necessary to make an appointment for emergencies?
No. Emergency departments operate 24/7 without appointments. You can directly walk in or call 911 for ambulance assistance.
48. How advanced is medical imaging in Quito?
Hospitals like Metropolitano and Vozandes have 3T MRI, CT scan, digital X-ray, and advanced ultrasound technologies.
49. Are medical records digitized in Quito hospitals?
Yes. Most private hospitals maintain electronic health records (EHR) to streamline patient data management and continuity of care.
50. Why is Quito becoming a healthcare hub in South America?
Because it offers affordable, high-quality healthcare, bilingual professionals, advanced facilities, and proximity to U.S. standards — all within a welcoming cultural environment.
