Consultant for assessment and development of three bilateral public health SOP packages for priority Points of Entry in Lao PDR
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN-related agency established in 1951, promotes humane and orderly migration. This consultancy contributes to the "Enhancing National Pandemic Preparedness and Cross-Border Health Security in Lao PDR" project, specifically focusing on strengthening legislation and policy frameworks for priority pathogens. The role sits within the Migration Health Unit of IOM Lao PDR, coordinating with the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to develop and operationalize three bilateral Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) packages for priority Points of Entry (PoEs) between Lao PDR and its neighboring countries (Viet Nam, Thailand, and China). The purpose is to strengthen pandemic preparedness and cross-border health security by enhancing bilateral coordination and data-sharing protocols. The consultant will review existing arrangements, identify operational gaps, and develop tailored SOPs aligned with national procedures and International Health Regulations (IHR 2005). This work directly supports Output 2.1 of the project, contributing to more effective management of public health emergencies at border crossings and ensuring smoother, safer movement of people.
Responsibilities
The consultant will review existing public health surveillance, event notification, risk assessment, and response coordination mechanisms for the Lao PDR–Thailand, Lao PDR–Viet Nam, and Lao PDR–China corridors. They will recommend priority Points of Entry (PoEs) for each corridor and identify operational gaps, clarifying roles, triggers, communication channels, and timelines. The consultant will develop three bilateral SOP packages tailored to the confirmed corridors and PoEs, ensuring alignment with national procedures, IHR (2005), and WHO guidance. Responsibilities include consulting with relevant authorities on draft SOPs, supporting technical validation, documenting feedback, and providing handover guidance for the IOM Lao PDR project team. Deliverables include an inception report, consolidated assessment with draft SOP packages, and a final validated SOP package with a handover plan.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in public health preparedness, surveillance, border health, health emergency coordination, or operational procedure development is required. Demonstrated experience in assessing or developing SOPs, notification protocols, data-sharing procedures, referral pathways, or emergency coordination mechanisms is essential. Experience facilitating multi-agency consultations and translating technical requirements into practical procedures is also necessary.
Skills
Knowledge of IHR (2005), public health surveillance and response systems, and cross-border health coordination. Strong analytical writing, facilitation, and project coordination skills. Fluency in English is required. Experience in Lao PDR or the Mekong region and Lao language ability are advantageous.