Ecuador Quitline — Línea 171 del MSP

Frequently asked questions

Is there a national quitline in Ecuador?

Ecuador does not have a single dedicated stop-smoking hotline, but the Ministerio de Salud Pública (MSP) line 171 fills that role. The ministry's "Tips para dejar de fumar" page directs smokers to line 171 option 2 for free telephone guidance on quitting. The same number also handles appointment scheduling and health advice across the public system.

Source: Ministerio de Salud Pública — Tips para dejar de fumar , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea gratuita 171

Is help to quit smoking free in Ecuador?

Yes. Calls to 171 are free from any landline or mobile phone, regardless of operator. The MSP runs the line, and cessation counselling through option 2 carries no charge. Care at public MSP health units, including support for stopping smoking, is also provided free of charge to users of the public health system.

Source: Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea gratuita 171 , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Tips para dejar de fumar

What does the MSP line 171 offer?

Line 171 is the MSP's toll-free call centre. It schedules medical appointments (general medicine, dentistry, obstetrics and psychology), gives health-promotion advice including on quitting smoking, registers complaints, and provides information for people with disabilities. Option 2 offers telephone counselling on smoking-cessation strategies, and option 6 handles mental-health support.

Source: Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea gratuita 171 , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Tips para dejar de fumar , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea 171 y atención en salud mental

Where else can I get help to quit smoking in Ecuador?

Beyond the phone, you can ask for help at any public MSP health centre. Primary-care teams assess nicotine dependence and offer cessation support, and you can book an appointment through 171 or at www.citas.med.ec. The MSP also publishes practical guidance through its "Ecuador sin tabaco" programme and "Tips para dejar de fumar" pages.

Source: Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea gratuita 171 , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Ecuador sin tabaco

Who runs line 171 and in what language and hours?

Line 171 is operated by the Ministerio de Salud Pública together with the state telecom CNT. Service is provided in Spanish. The call centre is open Monday to Sunday, including public holidays, from 7:00 to 20:00. Appointments can also be managed through the SaludEC app and www.citas.med.ec.

Source: Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea gratuita 171 , Ministerio de Salud Pública — Línea 171 y atención en salud mental