As International Children’s Heart Foundation continues to evolve, we’re excited to announce the appointment of pediatric cardiac surgeon Dr. Rodrigo Soto as our new Chief Executive Officer of Clinical Operations.
Dr. Soto has worked with ICHF for more than a decade, serving as a volunteer pediatric cardiac surgeon from 2002 to 2012 before transitioning to staff surgeon in early 2013.
In his new leadership position, Dr. Soto will oversee all aspects of ICHF’s medical missions, including expanding our medical volunteer team and strengthening and growing our partnerships with hospitals and medical clinics around the globe.
“During this new phase of ICHF’s history, I want to strongly emphasize my commitment to the foundation’s mission of saving children with congenital heart disease – regardless of country of origin, race, religion or gender – and providing crucial cardiac care training to medical professionals in developing nations,” Dr. Soto said. “I’m looking forward to playing a strong role in increasing the number of lives we save.”
Since its beginnings in 1993, ICHF’s volunteer medical teams have performed more than 7,000 free heart surgeries on children in developing nations who lack sufficient access to pediatric cardiac surgeons. Additionally, ICHF medical teams also train local medical professionals in cardiac care, enabling them to continue to save lives long after missions are completed.
“I’d like to extend a personal invitation to medical professionals throughout the world to join us as a volunteer on an upcoming medical mission,” Soto said. “Not only will your participation result in lasting memories and invaluable professional experience, but your unselfish donation of your time and expertise also will save lives, provide joy and hope to countless families, and empower medical practitioners in other countries to continue this very important work.”
Learn more about becoming an ICHF Medical Volunteer
For a complete history of Dr. Soto’s extensive medical credentials, please visit Dr Soto’s staff biography page
