In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, OCHO shifted its in-country operations and launched a remote consultation platform known as the CORE Program (Coordinator of Outreach and Remote Education). Dr. Patrocinio Sarmiento, a local physician from Honduras with extensive experience in OCHO’s volunteer services, was appointed to lead this initiative. He brings both professional expertise and a strong commitment to serving patients in the Santa Bárbara region.

Dr. Sarmiento was tasked with assessing infrastructure needs and managing the costs necessary to implement telehealth and tele-education services in Atima and San Vicente. The success and strategic value of this initiative led OCHO to establish a new role—Director of Operations in Honduras—in 2023. In this capacity, Dr. Sarmiento now oversees all of OCHO’s activities in the country, including the Telehealth Program, professional development for healthcare providers, and outreach to new communities in the Santa Bárbara region. His leadership has strengthened OCHO’s ability to identify gaps in healthcare and education and to develop a more responsive, community-centered care model.

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