Objectives of the department
The objective of the Health Emergencies Department (PHE) of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is to increase health sector resilience to emergencies and disasters. PHE assists Member States to strengthen the health sector’s capacities in prevention, risk reduction, preparedness, surveillance, response, and early recovery for emergencies and disasters related to any hazards (natural, man-made, biological, chemical, radiological and others) and, when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain disasters, including outbreaks, and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. PHE is responsible for ensuring the implementation and updating of the PAHO/WHO Institutional Emergency and Disaster Response Policy.
Objective of the consultancy
Under the general supervision of the Unit Chief, Infectious Hazards Management Unit, and the direct supervision of the Lead on Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), COVID-19 Incident Management System, the incumbent will generally be responsible to support activities related to IPC preparedness and response in Latin America and the Caribbean related to COVID-19 and other high-threat pathogens. Specifically, she/he will support the implementation of training activities for health care workers at all levels of the Caribbean.
Responsibilities
1. Support IPC activities related to virtual trainings for the Caribbean countries.
2. Update and review the lectures, including references and COVID-19 related information.
3. Manage the virtual platform during the sessions, including opening the room, accommodating participants, managing the Q/A and chat.
4. Send training material, recordings, assessment, and certificates of attendance to participants.
5. Prepare a final report with participants attendance and evaluation of the training.
6. Review the current national policies on IPC at the national level, using standardized questionnaires.
7. Provide on-site or remotely technical assistance to Member States, as requested, for IPC activities related to COVID-19 and other high-threat pathogen, both at the national level and in health care facilities;
8. Develop a working plan for implementation of the IPC activities in health care facilities considering situational analysis (SWOT approach and a prioritization exercise) and a timeframe of 12 months.
9. Manage the ipc@paho.org mailbox.
10. Perform other related tasks as assigned.
Education requirements (qualifications)
Essential: A university degree in the health field (medicine, nursing), microbiology, or other health-related discipline.
Experience requirements
Essential: At least three years of combined national and international work experience.
Desirable: Experience in designing and implementing IPC training and/or activities.
Languages
Expert knowledge of English is necessary. Working knowledge of Spanish or another language of the Region would be an asset.
Location
The incumbent will be expected to perform this position’s duties and responsibilities remotely.
Expected contract duration
Six months upon signature of the contract
The application must include
• Cover letter and most up to date CV
How to Apply
Please submit your cover letter and most up to date CV which reflects work experience related to these terms of reference by 23:59 EST on 20 March 2022 to munozros@paho.org.