Consultant On Noncommunicable Diseases To Support The Continuity/Delivery Of NCD Services In Ukraine

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Ukraine is addressing the critical issue of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), which cause 84% of deaths. The ongoing war has exacerbated this burden by disrupting healthcare infrastructure and supply chains, interrupting essential NCD treatment for millions. WHO prioritizes NCDs in its humanitarian efforts, aiming to integrate NCD care into emergency preparedness and response.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to strengthen the primary health care (PHC) network in Ukraine to deliver integrated Noncommunicable Diseases (NCD) and Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) services, particularly for populations affected by the ongoing conflict. The role will focus on enhancing the capacity of PHC facilities to provide essential NCD care, including screening, diagnosis, management, and patient education, especially in emergency-affected and hard-to-reach areas. The objective is to ensure continuity of NCD services amidst the crisis, addressing critical gaps in emergency preparedness and response, and supporting the recovery of NCD care within the Ukrainian health system.

Responsibilities

The consultant will be responsible for assessing and mapping primary health care (PHC) facilities in prioritized regions to identify NCD service capacity gaps and priority needs. This includes developing facility selection criteria and preparing facility profiles. The role involves adapting and finalizing training packages and plans for PHC teams on NCD/CVD service delivery, and subsequently delivering training sessions to at least 150 health professionals. Additionally, the consultant will provide technical input for the procurement of necessary equipment and supplies, monitor equipment distribution and use, and document implementation challenges. The role also includes developing and adapting patient and caregiver education materials for common NCDs and screening programs like cervical cancer screening, and preparing reports on training, supervision, and implementation progress.

Work Experience

Essential: Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in public health, primary health care, or clinical care, with a focus on NCD/CVD prevention, screening, diagnosis, or management. Experience in designing or delivering clinical training for PHC providers on NCD/CVD protocols is also required. Desirable experience includes PHC facility assessment, technical input for equipment procurement, cervical cancer screening programs, developing patient education materials, and working in humanitarian or conflict-affected settings.

Skills

Knowledge of WHO PEN and national NCD/CVD clinical protocols. Expertise in training design and delivery for health workers, including supportive supervision. Familiarity with procurement and supply planning for medical equipment and tests. Skills in patient education and behavior change communication for chronic diseases. Ability to work independently and communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

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