Medical Officer

Organizational Context

The United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), established by the UN Security Council in Resolution 2245 (2015), replaced the UN Support Office for AMISOM. UNSOS is mandated to provide support to AMISOM, UNSOM, the Somali National Army (SNA), and the Somali Police Force (SPF) for joint operations. The operating environment in Somalia is complex and requires significant logistical and security considerations.

Job Purpose

The Medical Officer will provide essential clinical services and health support within the UNSOS mission in Baidoa, Somalia. Under the supervision of the Chief Medical Officer, the role involves daily patient consultations, emergency response, and primary healthcare provision at the Level-I clinic. The incumbent will manage medical supplies, coordinate training for AMISOM medical staff, and participate in crisis management, including mass casualty incidents and medical evacuations. This position is crucial for maintaining the physical and mental well-being of UN personnel and contributing to the mission's operational effectiveness.

Responsibilities

The Medical Officer will conduct daily clinical duties, including patient consultations and 24/7 emergency medical response. Responsibilities include providing primary healthcare at the Baidoa Level-I clinic, managing medical supplies and equipment, and ensuring rational resource utilization. The role involves coordinating training programs for AMISOM medical staff in areas like BLS and ACLS, and assisting with the procurement of medical supplies. The incumbent will participate in the Mission Crisis Management team, contributing to Mass Casualty Incidence (MCI) response, COVID-19 protocols, and medical/casualty evacuations. Health education for civilian personnel, addressing occupational health, and implementing infection control measures are also key duties. Reporting on clinical activities and submitting medical reports are required. Additionally, the volunteer is expected to promote volunteerism, share field experiences, and support new UN Volunteers.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of mandatory clinical experience is required. Specialized experience in human medicine is mandatory. Desirable experience includes certifications in Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), or Pre-hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS), as well as experience in HIV care or Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT).

Skills

Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, creativity, judgment and decision-making, planning and organizing, professionalism, and self-management. Essential skills encompass health expertise, crisis and emergency response capabilities, and strong communication abilities.

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