Consultant- Noncommunicable Diseases

Background

The consultant will support the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Solomon Islands, in the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) - particularly cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases. This will occur through supporting Solomon Islands to strength national capacity, governance, multisectoral action, advocacy and partnerships for NCDs and their risk factors. In particular, technical assistance will be provided for developing and implementing effective legal frameworks; orienting health systems through people-centred health care and universal health coverage; promoting high-quality research and development; and monitoring trend, determinants, and progress to achieve global, regional, and national targets through evidence-based interventions.

Tasks

The STC will work with the Noncommunicable Disease Division to implement their priorities for 2016, by providing technical support and assistance to the Ministry of Health for:

1. Capacity building alongside the NCD division leaders through team building, training and workforce development.
2. Planning, delivery, and strengthening of detection and clinical management of cases of common non-communicable diseases through implementation of the Package of Essential Noncommunicable Diseases in selected sites.
3. National surveillance of noncommunicable disease risk factors, in particular planning for school-based surveys such as the Global School Based Student Health Survey and the Global Youth Tobacco Survey.
4. Translation of national surveillance data into policy positions and strategic planning.
5. Relationship building and multi-sectoral action for revision of legislation pertaining to NCD risk factors, such as alcohol and tobacco.

The STC will work with the Mental Health Division and provide support and assistance for:

1. Implementation of the mhGAP plan.
2. Revision of the Mental Treatment Act such that it reflects human rights conventions, principles and best practice.

The STC may also be requested to work with the Health Promotion division to provide technical assistance for:

1. Revision of the Solomon Islands Healthy Villages manual.
2. The STC will also:
   a. Assist with logistical support, resource mobilization, supply management, and administrative aspects of the NCD programmes.
   b. Provide technical support and facilitate cross-programme integration for shared resources, synergy and accountability towards maximizing greater results.
   c. Act as focal point for other DNH programs such as violence and injury prevention, cancer, mental health, disability and rehabilitation.

Outputs

1. Progress report on the implementation of PEN.
2. Progress report on alcohol legislation review and mental health legislation review.
3. Policy papers translating STEPS data.
4. Strategic plan for NCD division, as initiated by the division.

Required profile of the consultant

Skills

Knowledge of and experience working in the health sector in the area of NCD prevention and control and health promotion.
Knowledge of and experience working in strategic and operational planning.
Knowledge of and experience working collaboratively and cross culturally with government and development partners.
Experience in communicating complex technical concepts for knowledge sharing.
 

Education

Essential: Degree in medicine from a recognized university.
Desirable: Postgraduate degree and specialisation in public health medicine.

Experience

At least seven years of working experience (including international work experience), with specialisation in NCDs
Experience working in one or more Pacific islands

Competencies
1. Communicating in a credible, effective, and culturally competent way
2. Ability to lead and influence effectively
3. Navigating complex health systems and environments
4. Producing results
5. Moving forward in a changing environment
6. Fostering integration and teamwork
7. Building and promoting cross-sectoral partnerships across the organization and beyond