International Consultant - Border Health
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO) supports Pacific Island Countries in strengthening their health security. This consultancy focuses on Fiji, a key regional hub, to enhance its capacity to manage public health risks at international Points of Entry (PoE) in line with International Health Regulations (IHR 2005).
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to provide expert technical support to Fiji's Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) to bolster International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) core capacities at designated Points of Entry (PoE). The role involves assessing current PoE capacities, developing a comprehensive Public Health Emergency Contingency Plan, and creating operational guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Additionally, the consultant will establish a strategic roadmap to ensure Fiji's compliance with IHR requirements and enhance its performance in Joint External Evaluation (JEE) PoE assessments. This work is crucial for national health security, given Fiji's role as a major international travel and trade hub in the Pacific, and its exposure to various public health threats.
Responsibilities
The consultant will conduct a thorough assessment of existing International Health Regulations (IHR 2005) core capacities at Fiji's designated Points of Entry (PoE), including airports and seaports. This involves reviewing relevant legislation, policies, emergency response plans, and previous assessment reports. The consultant will develop a detailed work plan and methodology, identify key stakeholders, and conduct multisectoral consultations with government ministries, border agencies, and other relevant authorities. Based on the assessment findings, the consultant will develop a Public Health Emergency Contingency Plan, operational guidelines, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for PoE. Finally, a roadmap for strengthening PoE compliance with IHR requirements and improving Joint External Evaluation (JEE) PoE capacities will be established, ensuring a clear path forward for enhanced national health security.
Work Experience
Essential: Minimum 5-10 years of professional experience in public health, emergency preparedness/response, IHR implementation, or health security. Demonstrated experience in conducting assessments and developing public health plans, guidelines, and SOPs. Desirable: Experience with JEE assessments, National Action Plans for Health Security (NAPHS), SPAR reporting, PoE strengthening, work in Small Island Developing States or the Pacific region, and familiarity with WHO.
Skills
Strong knowledge of IHR (2005) and JEE methodologies. Familiarity with WHO PoE assessment tools and contingency planning guidance. Excellent facilitation, stakeholder engagement, and report-writing skills. Experience in multisectoral coordination and emergency planning. Ability to generate insights from data analysis. Strong communication and exceptional organizational skills.