Motivations for Voluntary and Independent Affiliation in the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute. The Manabí Case

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this article was to analyze the motivation for voluntary affiliation to the Ecuadorian Social Security Institute. Materials and methods: The methodology of this inquiry is described as quantitative, supported by a documentary study, with a field research design, non-experimental, descriptive transactional type. Results: Among the main results, it is found that the accessible contribution paid monthly to the IESS was the strategy considered when voluntarily and independently joining the institute. In addition, users stated that the service is timely, gives them confidence, and therefore, they are satisfied with the medical care received. Discussion: The exercise of functions linked to public service and the characteristics of the process itself, as well as the tripartite composition of the IESS, need to incorporate research tools that allow us to understand employers' perceptions of the institute, their knowledge and evaluation of the services, the institutional image, and various perspectives on social security that, due to its nature and institutional management, have a direct influence on the daily life of the population. Conclusions: It is concluded that when discussing strategies to generate a membership motivation process, it was found that the affordable monthly contribution paid to the IESS was the strategy considered when voluntarily and independently joining the institute, and the quality and level of satisfaction.