The aim of the partnership project between the Missionsärztliches Institut and the Franklin Tello Hospital is to expand the diagnostic possibilities and quality management of the hospital laboratory in Nuevo Rocafuerte, Ecuador. This is to be achieved by means of training courses for laboratory staff and doctors on issues of laboratory diagnostics and quality control. Background: The Franklin Tello Hospital in Nuevo Rocafuerte is located close to the Peruvian border and serves as a referral hospital for the residents of both countries. As the population in the surrounding area is mainly indigenous and the hospital concerned is the only hospital in the region, it plays a key role in the healthcare of the 14,000 residents. Basic knowledge of laboratory test methods and diagnosis is essential if patients are to be given adequate treatment. Activities: - Procuring technical equipment for the laboratory - Providing training in laboratory testing and documentation and creating standard procedures - Providing training in diagnosing Chagas disease Impact: The hospital partnership ensures that the hospital’s laboratory has the necessary technical equipment to carry out testing. The training courses for the laboratory staff also aim to ensure that patients are treated as quickly as possible. These staff also serve as multipliers in the long term.