National Consultant - Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (saris) Assessment, WHO Country Office, Viet Nam

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Office in Viet Nam is addressing the significant burden of Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARIs) in the country, a known hotspot for emerging infectious diseases. Despite improvements in case management, SARI remains a challenge. WHO has supported the piloting of an early diagnosis and management model, including training and provision of rapid antigen tests, in various hospitals across Hanoi and Quang Ninh provinces.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to evaluate the effectiveness, impact, and sustainability of the piloted early detection model for Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARIs) in Quang Ninh Province. The consultant will assess the model's implementation, identify gaps, and gather lessons learned to inform national scale-up efforts. This role contributes to strengthening SARI diagnosis and clinical management within Viet Nam's healthcare system, ultimately aiming to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of SARI, particularly in resource-constrained settings.

Responsibilities

The consultant will review existing documentation and develop evaluation tools, including an evaluation framework, methodology, and data collection instruments. They will conduct a field assessment of the SARI pilot model in one provincial hospital and selected sub-regional hospitals in Quang Ninh, examining referral practices, clinical management, and patient outcomes. The role involves evaluating the model's impact on early diagnosis and clinical management, assessing its sustainability, identifying remaining challenges, and providing recommendations for improvement. The consultant will also contribute to strengthening clinical capacity and coordination between healthcare facilities for SARI patient management and referral.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years of experience in infectious diseases or emergency medicine, specifically in SARI case management, is required. Demonstrated experience in surveillance, study design, implementation, and evaluation for communicable diseases is also essential. Previous experience with WHO, the Ministry of Health, and public hospitals in Viet Nam is considered an advantage.

Skills

Advanced knowledge in emerging infectious diseases, SARI, and emergency medicine. Fluency in English (speaking and writing) and native Vietnamese language proficiency are required.

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