Paper short abstract:

In the last decade the importance of transnational networks for migrants and their origin communities was recognised. In my paper, this argument is developed using data collected in a four-year fieldwork programme with Ecuadorian migrant families and health professionals, both in Spain and in Ecuador.

Paper long abstract:

In the last decade it has been recognized the importance of transnational networks for migrants and their origin communities. They keep connected in different economical, political, social and emotional ways, which are not only relevant to sustain migration dynamics, reinforce migrants' identities, or improve the quality of life of migrant families, but also play a significant role in their health (care) seeking behaviour. The activation of transnational networks in migrant families' health strategies results in different kind of flows: including money, medicines -both traditional and biomedical, sick people and carers. These flows are asymmetrical -like the relations between countries of origin and reception- and constrained by the economical and political factors that rule migration in a globalized world. These transnational strategies complement those others carried in relation with the health care systems of the reception countries, and its in-depth study help us understanding migrants' active role in the search of care and their interaction with European health care systems, avoiding cultural essentialism. In my paper, this argument is developed using the data collected in a four years fieldwork with Ecuadorian migrant families and health professionals, both in Spain and in Ecuador.