The discussion surrounding the training of health specialists in Ecuador often emphasizes academic excellence, yet it rarely addresses the real conditions that underpin such training. Many postgraduate medical students, especially those financing their studies, confront a troubling normalization of precarious working conditions. They fulfill program-related shifts while also taking on extra labor shifts to maintain their positions, resulting in a scenario where they effectively work double without adequate pay for the additional hours. This situation raises significant ethical concerns regarding the treatment and remuneration of medical professionals in training.

The recurrent justification of 'this is how it has always been' fails to uphold the moral and legal standards required in a system that demands quality, patient safety, and rigorous training for healthcare providers. The article argues that the perpetuation of inequitable practices does not create a just environment for developing competent healthcare professionals. The mounting workload increases fatigue and the risk of clinical errors, as well as contributing to psychosocial strain among these postgraduate professionals.

Ultimately, the current administrative framework is deemed inadequate in addressing the realities that medical trainees face in Ecuador. To ensure a sustainable healthcare system that meets the demands of excellence and safety, significant reforms are necessary. This article calls for an urgent reevaluation of existing policies and conditions affecting medical training, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment and support for all medical professionals in the training pipeline.