EMR HIE/Interoperability Framework Consultant

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) seeks consultancy support to develop a practical, operational interoperability framework for health information exchange in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. This initiative addresses the critical need for standardized data exchange, as recognized by Member States in regional and national digital health strategies. The framework aims to overcome data silos and improve health service delivery.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to provide expert technical support for the development of a practical and operational Interoperability Framework for Health Information Exchange within the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). This framework will align with the regional strategy for digital health (EM/RC69/R.6). A key aspect of the role involves facilitating dialogue among stakeholders and partners to ensure the framework's adoption and effectively address existing challenges in health information exchange. The consultancy aims to enable Member States to implement interoperable health information systems, thereby improving evidence-based decision-making and the delivery of seamless, efficient, and high-quality health services across the region.

Responsibilities

Develop an operational interoperability framework for health information exchange, aligned with regional digital health strategies and action plans. Conduct a review of existing interoperability initiatives in Member States. Analyze global interoperability frameworks (e.g., HL7 FHIR, IHE) to adapt relevant principles for the regional context. Facilitate consultations with regional and country-level stakeholders, including health officials and IT experts, to build consensus. Draft and finalize the framework, including an implementation checklist and key indicators, ensuring its applicability across different country income levels and contexts. Develop a framework development report suitable for publication and create high-level advocacy materials for dissemination to senior WHO staff, policymakers, and influencers.

Work Experience

Requires 5-10 years of hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and governing large-scale digital health systems, with a specific focus on health data exchange and interoperability. International experience is also required for international consultants.

Skills

Technical Expertise: Deep knowledge of global health data standards (HL7 FHIR, CDA, SNOMED CT, LOINC, IHE profiles) and health information architectures. Strategic Perspective: Experience developing national/regional digital health strategies or frameworks. Stakeholder Facilitation: Excellent communication and facilitation skills for engaging senior officials and experts. Regional/Contextual Knowledge: Experience in EMR or similar contexts is desirable. Language: Excellent English communication required; Arabic literacy preferable; French knowledge is an advantage.

Explore related opportunities