Decreasing the Epilepsy Treatment Gap in Tena, Ecuador: A Report From 2021 to 2023

Cureus. 2025 Oct 14;17(10):e94581. doi: 10.7759/cureus.94581. eCollection 2025 Oct.

ABSTRACT

Background Neurological care in rural areas such as Tena, Ecuador, remains critically low due to geographic, economic, and systemic barriers. Tena, located in the Amazon region, has limited access to specialized neurological services, creating significant health disparities. Since 2009, the International Neurology Foundation (INF) has partnered with the Hospital José María Velasco Ibarra to address these challenges. Methodology This retrospective analysis summarizes data from the INF medical service relief trip (MSRT) conducted in Tena from 2021 to 2023. Clinical records, interviews with providers, and MSRT reports were reviewed to assess patient demographics, diagnoses, treatments, and interventions. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used to identify trends and insights. Results Over three years, 751 patients were treated, with epilepsy being the most common diagnosis (265 cases). Children under the age of 10 years represented the largest patient group. Key achievements included the donation of electroencephalography equipment, enabling local epilepsy diagnostics, and training local healthcare providers. Persistent challenges included limited imaging resources, inconsistent medication supply, and barriers related to language and transportation. Conclusions INF's initiatives have significantly improved access to neurological care in Tena, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and providing critical training. Sustainable progress requires investment in infrastructure, expanded training programs, and consistent medication availability. The Tena experience serves as a model for reducing health disparities and improving neurological care in resource-limited settings, aligning with global health equity priorities.

PMID:41246783 | PMC:PMC12614661 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.94581