Causerie Called “Cotacachi” – Part 6

Medical and Dental services in Cotacachi are extremely reasonable. Once again the facilities may not be what we are accustomed to, but their equipment is ultra-modern and their expertize excellent. We are going to look at certain of the services that are available here in Cotacachi.

The hospital is fairly small, but it has all the necessary facilities to accommodate the health needs of the public and even a dental service. Patients requiring more specialized care are transferred to the hospital in Ibarra.     

The Out Patients Department is a very busy section. It is well-staffed with Medical Specialists and although the hospital is not equipped to treat the more serious cases, it plays a vital role in diagnosing diseases and referrals to other hospitals.

The Emergency services are open constantly with a Doctor always in attendance.

The Emergency room is small and patients wait in the Waiting Area shown in this pic. the “X-Ray” Department is more to your right, not shown in the photograph.

There are a number of Dentists practicing in the area, as well as Laboratories. This one is situated in “Leather Street” – Calle 10 Agosto. One word of caution – insist on a local anesthetic- otherwise you will have to pay for the service and the pain.

Senior Fernando is the Pharmacist of this well-stocked pharmacy. What a pleasant and a friendly man. He has a stock of medical requirements perhaps not found in other stores. Many of the Doctors and patients make use of his medical supplies. I am so privileged – always favored with a welcoming smile and a kiss on the cheek. That is the best part of his service.

There are many other Pharmacies around. Medicines are reasonable, and if you have a medical background and can diagnose a condition, you just go to the Pharmacy and see what is available. Otherwise the attending Pharmacist will assist you. The dispensing of Antibiotics does not require a prescription. Pharmacies are open every day of the week.

Hopefully you are all well and healthy, but any medical intervention that you may require is at your fingertips here in Cotacachi. And aren’t you fortunate – your tour guide is a medical professional.

Thought for your Tour:

We will always suffer from some sort of malady, sickness or disease here on earth, but there is perfect spiritual healing, through Jesus Christ. “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed!” Just imagine that, every sin completely eliminated from our record.