BACKGROUND

The Ministry of Health (MOH) in Lao PDR has an integrated health management information system (HMIS) on DHIS2 platform and data is collected at each level of health. The HMIS in Lao PDR already has a firm foundation, with reporting forms, set of indicators and data elements which contribute to them in place. Different public health programmes constantly review and revise their information systems on the platform in line with their strategic priorities and dedicated technical support is essential to sustain them, particularly during the initial phases of roll out. Furthermore, constant development support is required specifically for the production of reports. One of the main weaknesses of the system is poor data quality assurance, and limited data analysis and use of the information. Currently, under the National Health Sector Reform Strategy, which provides the vision for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and which has been endorsed by the national assembly, HMIS strengthening has been identified as one of the prioritised pillars. Strengthening the health information will play a crucial role in informing decision making and planning of the health sector in general and of the health sector reform in particular for improving the general health service to the population of Lao PDR. Supporting the strengthening of health information systems in one of the flagship programmes of the WHO Country Office in Lao PDR and this consultancy is expected to contribute to this endeavour

PURPOSE/SPECIFIC OBJECTIVE OF THE ACTIVITY

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential that information systems used to monitor the delivery of essential health services are maintained and further developed to track them better to understand the impact of COVID-19 on essential health services delivery to inform decision makers in order to make timely remedial action. A number of information systems of disease control programmes such as TB and HIS were revised recently and need significant effort to ensure reporting is uninterrupted with technical support needed for its users.

The proposed consultancy, through the Health Information Systems team in Lao PDR, is expected to provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Health (MoH) departments and units in strengthening the national Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) through the design and implementation of specific health information systems and support the monitoring and evaluation of those programmes’ strategic plans.

The consultant will work closely with the Department of Planning and Cooperation of the Ministry of Health to develop and build capacity on data generation, data processing data analysis and data utilization.

The consultant will also be expected to perform various tasks related to knowledge management on request including support to streamline indicators for national monitoring and also support the efforts of WHO in standardizing common lists for digital health convergence.

METHODS TO CARRY OUT THE ACTIVITY

Output 1: Provide technical support to the Health Information Division of Department of Planning and Cooperation of the Ministry of Health for the development of information products:

• • Deliverable 1.1: Support in the production of the annual National Health Statistics report
• • Deliverable 1.2: support in the production of quarterly statistics reports

Output 2: Support the effective coordination and integration of TB/HIV programs into the DHIS2

• • Deliverable 2.1: Support the definition design and development of a unique identifier for TB and HIV programmes.
• • Deliverables 2.2: facilitate the integration of Laboratory information systems in the national HMIS.

Output 3: Support the integration of climate change and early warning system data elements to HMIS

• • Deliverable 3.1: Review weather related data elements that need to be included in HMIS required for modelling for an early warning system and establish a proof of concept

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

EDUCATION

Minimum Post graduate degree in one of the following fields, economics, business administration, management, information systems, international relations, from a recognised tertiary institution.

EXPERIENCE

The candidate should have at least 2 years of experience in working in health information systems in a developing setting. Previous working experience working in Lao PDR and/or with WHO would be considered an asset

TECHNICAL SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE

Experience in managing and coordinating health information system projects within a public health context. especially DHIS2 development.

Experience in data analysis, data sourcing and data visualisation.

LANGUAGES

High level of proficiency in spoken and written English is essential, basic understanding of Lao is desirable.

COMPETENCIES

• • Producing results
• • Technical expertise
• • Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
• • Communication
• • Teamwork

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Place of assignment:

The consultant will be based in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR with potentially having to undertake duty travel to provinces

Duration of contract:

1 January 2022 to 30 June 2022 (6 months)

APPLICATIONS

Qualified and interested specialists should submit CV and Expression of Interest {cover letter} to the Supply Officer through WP RO UNGM at < wproungm@who.int > by 30 November 2021.

The cover letter should outline how their experience and qualifications make them a suitable candidate for this position and should include their proposed daily consultancy fee and availability.

Please use Tender Notice No. 155121 as subject to all submission. Only successful candidates will be contacted.