Opinion of the users of Riobamba on the violations to the right to the health, in connection with the mortality

Abstract

Introduction: the right to health is a fundamental principle, although in practice, various violations of this right can undermine it.Objective: to explore the opinions of Riobamba users regarding violations of the right to health in relation to patient mortality.Methods: a qualitative study conducted in 2024 with a non-probabilistic, intentional sample of 30 users affiliated with the Social Security system in the Riobamba canton. The study employed both theoretical and empirical methods, using an ad hoc interview to explore participants' opinions. Descriptive statistical methods were applied, and medical ethics were observed.Results: all users reported having experienced, either personally or through family members, situations in which they felt their right to health was violated within the public healthcare system, and in every case, these situations were associated with patient mortality. Additionally, 67 % believe these violations are directly related to increased deaths. Furthermore, 80 % of respondents believe that awareness and public education could help reduce these violations within Ecuador's public health system.Conclusions: all users, directly or indirectly, have experienced situations where they perceived a violation of their rights within Ecuador’s public healthcare system. This highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response between authorities and society, including investment in infrastructure, human resources, medical staff training, and transparent management of public healthcare funds.