Patricio Eduardo Yepez Castro
Guatemala City • +593984212218 • [email protected] • linkedin.com/in/patricio-yepez-72824789
Public Health and Emergency Management Specialist
Public Health Professional with expertise in Health Emergencies, Disaster Risk Management, and Health Information
Management. Over 8 years of experience, adept at humanitarian response and collaboration with UN agencies and international
NGOs. Currently serving as an International Consultant for Health Emergencies and Disasters at the Pan American Health
Organization. Proven track record in advising authorities on comprehensive health emergency policies, disaster risk reduction, and
climate change integration for resilient health systems. Successful in spearheading initiatives for the georeferencing of hospitals,
crafting early warning systems, and enhancing epidemiological surveillance. Holds an MPH and MD, dedicated to advancing
public health initiatives and building resilient communities.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Pan American Health Organization • Full-time • 03/2017 - 11/2023
International Consultant for Health Emergencies and Disasters. Guatemala, Guatemala City. 11/2023. Currently
• Policy Advisor & Resilience Strategist: Guided Guatemalan authorities on comprehensive health emergency policies,
emphasizing resilient and green hospital strategies. Spearheaded Biennial Work Plan execution, aligning activities with PAHO/
WHO standards and monitoring hazards through the PAHO Hazard Atlas. Played a pivotal role in reducing disaster risks and
enhancing health system resilience. Facilitated climate change integration for stronger health facility resilience.
• Efficient Response Developer: Developed early warning documents and executed prevention/response actions, significantly
increasing Guatemala's emergency health response efficiency. Collaborated on proactive strategies for authorities, showcasing
dedication to swift and well-coordinated responses to health hazards.
• Data Process Revitalizer: Revamped data processes, ensuring comprehensive hazard monitoring. Actively engaged in health
cluster processes, contributing to heightened efficiency in Guatemala's emergency health response system.
• Skills: Disaster Risk Reduction · Public Health · Emergency Preparedness · Emergency Management · Disaster Response
Head Of Information Management in Health. Caracas, Distrito Federal, Venezuela. 03/2019 - 11/2023. Full - time
• Strategic Data Consolidation: Led initiatives to consolidate vital data for diverse scenarios, including returned populations,
emergencies, disasters, and conflicts. This effort resulted in the production of Sitreps and flash reports, providing essential
information for strategic decision-making in Humanitarian Response activities.
• Collaborative Technical Leadership: Provided pivotal technical support to the GTMI group, contributing significantly to
Humanitarian Response SitReps and interagency projects. Actively engaged with UN agencies and NGOs, fostering
collaboration and support in complex emergency contexts.
• Innovative Information Management: Spearheaded the development of the Health Cluster website, integrating critical
COVID-19 data and actively contributing to mapping cases and daily infographics. Made noteworthy technical contributions
to data management tools, such as the PAHO VEN COVID-19 SharePoint and the ESRI information tool for WHO,
showcasing dedication to robust health information management.
• Skills: Disaster Risk Reduction · Public Health · Emergency Preparedness · Emergency Management · Disaster Response
International PAHO Consultant. City of Washington County, District of Columbia, United States · Hybrid. 09/2017 - 10/
2023. Full time.
• Emergency Operations Center - PHE - PAHO headquarters WDC
• Georeferencing Excellence: Successfully georeferenced over 20,000 hospitals in Pan American Health Organization member
countries, encompassing public, social security, and private health systems. This meticulous effort formed the foundation for
the Dashboard of Hospitals with Emergency Services in the Americas.
• Atlas of Hazards collaboration development: Collaborated in the development of the Atlas of Hazards of Natural Origin,
integrating data from esteemed sources like NASA, CEDAC, NOAA, National Hurricane Center, and Columbia University.
This comprehensive Atlas serves as a robust early warning system, facilitating timely detection of natural hazards and
contributing to the formulation of preparation, response, and mitigation strategies for disasters.
• Situation Reports and Emergency Response: Played an active role in preparing situation reports for various disasters in the
Americas, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of emerging challenges. Demonstrated commitment to effective
emergency response strategies, enhancing the organization's capability to address dynamic situations.
• Skills: Health Information Management · Public Health · Emergency Preparedness
Internship Trainee. Washington, District of Columbia, United States · On-site. 03/2017 - 05/2017. Full time.
• Strategic Emergency Preparedness: Played a pivotal role in enhancing emergency preparedness by actively monitoring and
analyzing significant events, such as the 2017 Peru floods and the Guatemala earthquake. Contributed to the development of
critical resources, including the Hospital Security Manual for flood scenarios, ensuring comprehensive preparedness and
response mechanisms.
• SOP Optimization and Standardization: Demonstrated meticulous attention to detail by editing Standard Operating Procedures
(SOPs) for PAHO Emergency Operations Center. Ensured SOPs were optimized for effective response mechanisms, enhancing
the organization's overall operational efficiency during emergency situations.
• Innovative Technological Solutions: Contributed to technological advancements by editing the Virtual CICOM platform,
emphasizing patient care matrices. Engaged in diverse tasks, including developing conceptual notes and translating documents,
showcasing a commitment to leveraging technology for improved emergency response in Public Health.
• Skills: Health Information Management · Public Health · Emergency Management · Disaster Response
Equadorian Red Cross • Part-time • 06/2013 - 06/2014
National Community Health Coordinator. Distrito Metropolitano de Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador · On-site. 03/2019 - 03/
2019. Full time.
• Strategic STI and HIV Interventions: Effectively managed and implemented targeted interventions for Sexually Transmitted
Infections (STIs) and HIV. Demonstrated leadership in developing and executing strategic programs, contributing to improved
community health outcomes.
• Innovative Approaches to Chronic Diseases and Mental Health: Introduced innovative approaches to address Chronic Diseases
and Mental Health, fostering community engagement and support. Applied strategic thinking and creative solutions to enhance
community well-being in areas critical to long-term health.
• Disaster Preparedness Leadership: Displayed strategic leadership in disaster preparedness as the National Community Health
Coordinator. Successfully coordinated programs focused on Health in Emergencies and Disasters, contributing to the
community's resilience and preparedness in times of crisis.
• Skills: Non-communicable Chronic Diseases · Public Health · Emergency Management
General Practitioner and Consultant in Emergency and Disaster Response. Ambato, Tungurahua, Ecuador · On-site. 06/
2013 - 06/2014. Part - time.
• Rapid Disaster Response: Volunteered during the eruption of Tungurahua Volcano, providing direct care to outpatients.
Demonstrated swift response in delivering critical medical services during a disaster, showcasing resilience and commitment to
community well-being.
• Data-Driven Disaster Management: Effectively managed statistical censuses and weekly reports, contributing to a
comprehensive understanding of the impact of the volcanic eruption. Provided valuable data for informed decision-making,
aiding in the formulation of targeted response strategies.
• Community Engagement and Support: Engaged with the affected community, fostering a sense of support and empathy.
Demonstrated a holistic approach by not only addressing immediate medical needs but also actively participating in the
management and reporting processes, contributing to a coordinated disaster response effort.
• Skills: Emergency Medicine · General Medical · Emergency Management
Equadorian Social Security Institute (IESS) • Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador · On-site • Full-time • 02/2018 - 02/2019
Epidemiologic Surveillance Technician.
• Revolutionizing Epidemiological Surveillance: Excelled as an Epidemiologic Surveillance Technician, implementing
groundbreaking processes. Spearheaded monitoring surveys across 101 health establishments, revolutionizing epidemiological
surveillance and laying the foundation for innovative strategies in Tuberculosis, HIV, Infections Associated with Health Care,
Resistance to Antimicrobials, and Non-Communicable Diseases.
• Commitment to Data-Driven Decision-Making: Showcased unwavering commitment to data-driven decision-making. Played a
pivotal role in executing surveys, contributing significantly to enhanced epidemiological surveillance capabilities. The
dedication to rigorous data analysis and interpretation positively impacted public health initiatives.
• Leadership as National Coordinator: Appointed as the surrogate National Coordinator of Epidemiological Surveillance,
underscoring leadership and expertise. Successfully guided strategic initiatives, demonstrating a strong commitment to
advancing public health objectives and ensuring the effective coordination of surveillance programs.
• Skills: Tuberculosis · Non-communicable Chronic Diseases · Team Management · Leadership · Public Health · Epidemiology
Termas de Papallacta • Napo, Ecuador · On-site • Full-time • 08/2017 - 10/2017
Occupational Health Physician
• Comprehensive Medical Care Excellence: Provided exemplary medical care for tourists, company employees, and the
Papallacta parish community, demonstrating proficiency in managing acute, chronic, and emergency diseases. Ensured optimal
health outcomes through personalized and compassionate healthcare services.
• Occupational Health Leadership: Served as Occupational Health Manager Physician, leading initiatives in the management and
prevention of occupational diseases. Skillfully handled medical certificates, timely notification of occupational accidents, and
medical reports. Spearheaded impactful campaigns focusing on preventing obesity, metabolic syndrome, fungal diseases, and
cervical cancer-uterine.
• Educational Outreach and Awareness: Drove community education and awareness through monthly talks on diverse health
topics. Effectively communicated preventive measures, promoting overall well-being and contributing to the community's
health literacy.
• Skills: Primary Care Physicians · Workplace Health Assessments · HCP · Occupational Risk Prevention
CEFAVIS • Quito, Ecuador · On-site • Full-time • 06/2014 - 09/2014
General Practitioner
• Comprehensive Outpatient Care: Successfully managed outpatient care, demonstrating expertise in diagnosing and treating a
wide range of acute and chronic diseases. Provided comprehensive medical services with a focus on delivering personalized
and effective healthcare solutions.
• Acute Disease Management: Effectively diagnosed and managed acute diseases, showcasing a proactive and patient-centered
approach. Implemented timely and evidence-based interventions to ensure optimal health outcomes for individuals under care.
• Chronic Disease Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency in the direct management of chronic diseases, emphasizing ongoing
patient support and follow-up. Implemented treatment plans that prioritized long-term health and wellness for individuals with
chronic medical conditions.
• Skills: General Medical · Management
Ministry of Health - Ecuador • Ambato, Tungurahua, Ecuador · On-site • Full-time • 05/2013 - 06/2014
Medical Director
• Community Health Advocacy: Pioneered a visionary project promoting safe water consumption, addressing a critical health
need. Initiated a sustainable solution, fostering public well-being and demonstrating proactive community health advocacy.
• Collaborative Health Initiatives: Played a pivotal role in forming the Health Committee, fostering collaborative efforts and
community engagement. Enhanced healthcare services through a cooperative framework, ensuring a comprehensive approach
to community well-being.
• Women's Safety Strategies: Implemented effective strategies against women's violence, contributing to a safer environment.
Demonstrated a commitment to holistic health by addressing social issues, creating a healthier atmosphere for all community
members.
• Skills: Group Medical · Water Treatment · Management
Hospital Mount Sinai • Cuenca, Ecuador · On-site • 02/2013 - 06/2013
Medical Doctor
• Patient-Centered Care: Provided compassionate and effective direct care to hospitalized patients across diverse medical and
surgical areas. Ensured the well-being and comfort of patients through attentive and personalized medical attention.
• Surgical Support Expertise: Demonstrated proficiency as a surgery room assistant, contributing to the efficiency and success of
surgical procedures. Collaborated seamlessly with surgical teams to create a conducive environment for optimal patient
outcomes.
• Clinical Versatility: Excelled in adapting to the demands of various medical and surgical disciplines. Developed a versatile
skill set by actively participating in the care of patients with diverse healthcare needs.
• Skills: Medical Facilities · Medicine · Medical Training
Military Hospital • Quito, Ecuador · On-site • 09/2012 - 08/2013
Medical Intern
• Comprehensive Medical Training: Successfully completed medical rotations in diverse specialties, including General Surgery,
Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology, Pediatrics, Neonatology, Neumology, Cardiology, Gynecology, and Community Health.
Acquired a well-rounded skill set and deepened medical knowledge through hands-on experience.
• Educational Impact: Contributed to medical education by actively participating in teaching roles during rotations. Shared
knowledge and insights with peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Multidisciplinary Exposure: Gained extensive exposure to a range of medical disciplines at the Basic Military Hospital in
Pastaza – Puyo. Developed a solid foundation for future medical practice through a varied and comprehensive training
experience.
• Skills: Inpatient Care · Medicine · Internal Medicine · Medical Training
EDUCATION
Master's degree in Risk Management, Emergencies and Disasters
Universidad Internacional SEK • 03/2022 - 04/2023
Skills: Emergency Management · Disaster Recovery · Emergency Preparedness · Disaster Risk Reduction · Disaster Response
Master of Public Health - MPH
University of London • 01/2018 - 12/2022
Skills: Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) · Mental Health · Reproductive Health · Medical Anthropology · Biostatistics ·
Epidemiology · Social Research · Community Health · Health Economics · Public Health
Doctor of Medicine - MD
Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador • 01/2006 - 12/2014
CERTIFICATIONS
Health Emergencies and Disaster Risk Management
Pan American Health Organization • 11/2023 - 11/2023
Incident Command System for Hospitals (ICS-H)
Pan American Health Organization • 10/2023 - 10/2023
Public Health in Humanitarian Crises 1
John Hopkins University SAIS Online / Coursera • 08/2019 - 08/2019
Modules on Principles of Epidemiology for Disease Control (MOPECE)
Pan American Health Organization • 05/2019 - 07/2019
Assessment of hazards and risks from natural phenomena
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México • 03/2018 - 04/2018
PUBLICATIONS
Caso clínico: Cutis Gyrata Vertis.
Red de Revistas Científicas de América Latina y El Caribe, España y Portugal. • 01/2017
SKILLS
Disaster Recovery, Disasters Response, Emergency Management, Epidemiology, Health Information Management, Humanitarian
Response, Public Health
Languages: English: Full professional proficiency, Portuguese: Elementary proficiency, Spanish: Native proficiency