International Consultant - Oral Health %26 Surveillance

Organizational Context

The World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Regional Office, specifically the Pacific Island Countries (PICs) department, is seeking an International Consultant for Oral Health & Surveillance. This role supports the Pacific NCD and Health through the Life Course Programme, aiming to strengthen oral health across the region.

Job Purpose

The purpose of this consultancy is to develop and implement national oral health policies in Pacific Island Countries (PICs). This involves integrating oral health into primary healthcare and noncommunicable disease (NCD) programs, and establishing robust oral health indicators and monitoring systems. The role directly contributes to WHO's Global Oral Health Strategy and the Western Pacific Regional Implementation Plan, addressing the high prevalence of oral diseases in the region and supporting countries in developing comprehensive strategies for oral health improvement and NCD prevention.

Responsibilities

The consultant will develop or update national oral health plans, ensuring integration into NCD strategies and utilizing multisectoral coordination platforms. Responsibilities include supporting countries in leveraging existing data sources for oral health surveillance, analyzing data to identify gaps, and producing country profiling reports. The role involves assisting PICs in enhancing monitoring and accountability processes for oral health initiatives, adapting key indicators for alignment with global strategies, and supporting advocacy efforts. Additionally, the consultant will integrate oral health messages into NCD prevention programs (tobacco, alcohol, sugar reduction) and support the development of health-promoting school and workplace initiatives. Capacity building for the health workforce in essential oral health interventions is also a key responsibility.

Work Experience

Essential: At least five years of experience in clinical oral health. Desirable: Professional experience in public health, experience with WHO/UN agencies, regional organizations, and development partners, and experience working in or with Pacific Island Countries or similar contexts.

Skills

Knowledge of clinical oral health and public health interventions in resource-limited settings; ability to work effectively in diverse teams; strong communication and results-producing abilities; fluency in English.

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