Technical Officer (Rehabilitation and Disability)
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) Division of Health Systems and Services (DHS) supports Member States in designing and implementing integrated, people-centered health service delivery models based on Primary Health Care (PHC) and quality improvement. This role contributes to strengthening health services at all levels, including rehabilitation, disability, assistive technology, and long-term care, to accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
Job Purpose
The Technical Officer (Rehabilitation and Disability) will provide crucial technical guidance and support to Member States in developing and implementing national policies and programs focused on rehabilitation, disability-inclusive health, assistive technology, and long-term care. This role involves advising on and collaborating with countries to develop, implement, and evaluate technical cooperation programs aimed at health system reforms, particularly in PHC, health governance, and service organization. The objective is to ensure equitable access to quality health services, integrate rehabilitation and assistive technology into emergency preparedness and response, and strengthen continuity of care, especially for vulnerable populations. The position also contributes to capacity building and knowledge dissemination in these critical health areas to advance UHC.
Responsibilities
Provide technical guidance and support for national policies and programs on rehabilitation, disability-inclusive health, assistive technology, and long-term care. Advise on and collaborate in the development, implementation, and evaluation of technical cooperation programs related to PHC reforms, health governance, and health systems development, with a focus on rehabilitation and disability inclusion. Support the establishment of standards for health system design, organization, and operation, including integrated health service networks and facilities. Provide technical assistance to Member States for integrating rehabilitation, assistive technology, and long-term care into health emergency preparedness and response, ensuring continuity of care. Contribute to identifying health inequities and promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities. Facilitate capacity-building activities for health workforce development in rehabilitation and long-term care. Coordinate technical activities related to quality of care and health service infrastructure. Disseminate knowledge and advise on the transfer of experiences and technologies. Support the development of health information systems for effective management of rehabilitation and disability services. Cooperate with stakeholders to build alliances and networks promoting access to quality services. Provide leadership and guidance to the Health Systems team.
Work Experience
Essential: At least seven years of relevant experience, with proven international exposure, in health systems and service delivery, including rehabilitation, assistive technology, disability, and/or long-term care. Experience in extending healthcare services to underserved populations and developing strategies to overcome access barriers is required. Desirable: Experience in low- or middle-income countries in developing, planning, implementing, and evaluating health system programs focused on rehabilitation, assistive technology, disability, and/or long-term care.
Skills
Sound knowledge and strong skills in rehabilitation, disability-inclusive health care, and long-term care services. Proven skills in policy development, planning, monitoring, and evaluating health systems. Demonstrated ability to provide sound methodological and technical advice to diverse stakeholders. Ability to innovate, integrate, synthesize, and communicate complex concepts verbally and in writing. Capacity to monitor and communicate progress in terms of process and results. Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office applications. Working knowledge of supply forecasting and inventory control systems for medical supplies.