Thank You and Farewell to our Hospital Director - Dr. Robert Winokur
As we reflect on Dr. Robert Winokur’s time at Lao Friends Hospital for Children, it is hard to believe how quickly two years have passed. Perhaps it feels that way because he has guided the hospital through a period of meaningful growth and transformation, with such momentum that it will continue to shape its impact for years to come.
When work is meaningful and change is happening, time seems to pass quickly. Under his leadership, the hospital made significant progress, strengthening efficiency, raising clinical standards, and investing in the growth and empowerment of Lao staff. We highlight some of the many improvements achieved during his time with us.
Improving Patient Flow and Timely Access to Care
From his earliest days, Dr. Robert focused right away on improving patient flow and timely access to care.
By reorganizing patient flow through the Outpatient Department (OPD) and Emergency Room, improving triage, and streamlining processes, the hospital was able to manage busy periods more smoothly and safely.
Today, children are seen faster and receive better care because they are directed to the right team, allowing staff to share the workload and prevent the Outpatient from becoming overwhelmed.
As we recorded the highest number of patient attendances (over 52,000 patients in 2025), this new system was tested, especially as we are still experiencing a Measles outbreak
Thanks to the strategic solution of Dr Robert, we were better prepared to meet the surge in demand and continue providing safe and timely care.
Quality Improvement and Patient Experience
Dr. Robert placed greater attention on important issues that needed to be addressed, such as infection prevention, patient dignity, and hospital environment. Changes that created a hospital that now feels safer, more welcoming, and more respectful for children and their caregivers.
Behind the scenes, important clinical improvements were also introduced. Clear new guidelines now ensure that antibiotics are administered within one hour of surgery. Children with serious fractures receive pain relief within 30 minutes. Guidelines that have been enforced to reduce delay in recovery and pain relief. This means safer treatment, less suffering, and better outcomes for every child.
Building Sustainable Clinical Excellence
One of Dr. Robert’s proudest achievements was strengthening the orthopaedic programme, which began when he first volunteered in 2023.
He introduced clear guidelines to help doctors decide which fractures truly required surgery and which could be treated safely without it, reducing surgical cases by 30 to 40 percent. He also worked closely with our team, building their skills and confidence through hands-on training to manage these cases independently.
As Dr. Somchittana, one of LFHC’s most senior physicians, shared in a letter to him:
“...your guidance has greatly improved our skills and confidence. Because of your teaching, we have become more independent and now rely less on external surgical support.”
Investing in People and Leadership
At the heart of Dr. Robert’s leadership is a deep belief in people. He introduced leadership training not only for the local executive team but also for staff who showed potential and a desire to lead. He wanted to nurture talent and build up a confident local team.
He also strengthened opportunities for ongoing learning. Staff were supported and encouraged to attend specialised training, and new fellowship programmes created opportunities that had not previously been available.
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Dr. Robert’s Message to Us All
“Happiness is something you can be. But joy is a different level. Joy is kindness. It’s giving. It’s service to others, helping others in need. That is what brings me joy.”
Those words really capture the spirit of a director who embraced the Lao culture, met every challenge with dedication, and leaves behind a legacy shaped by compassion and service.
Dr. Robert, we thank you from all of us at Friends Without a Border, from the staff of Lao Friends Hospital for Children, and from the countless children and families whose lives you touched. Your contribution is impossible to measure. It is truly immeasurable.
An exciting announcement about who will be stepping into this role will be shared soon.
