PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
As a part of the 2020-2025 European program of work, the WHO is dedicated to assisting member states in modernizing their health information system to enhance evidence driven health policies are designed for better health outcomes of the population. In the context of the WHO Health Programmes, at the country level, the incumbent will provide technical expertise and operational support to the Ministry of Health and Public Health Center in strengthening of health information system in an integrated approach. The expert will provide technical guidance and expertise on the safety and efficacy of digital health solutions; and preserving health equity, gender equality, equity and human rights as core values in their deployment.
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME
Underlying Values and Core Functions of WHO All Member States of WHO in the European Region share the common value of the highest attainable standard of health as a fundamental human right. All of WHO's actions are based on this and rooted in the underlying value of equity as described in the General Programme of Work. The 13th General Programme of Work defines the mission of WHO as one to promote health, to keep the world safe, and to protect the vulnerable.
The GPW calls for heightened accountability, prioritizing impact and outcome at country level, and to improve the lives of three billion people, through universal health coverage, through addressing health emergencies, and promoting healthier populations. WHO's mandate revolves around six core functions: (i) providing leadership on global health matters; (ii) shaping the health research agenda; (iii) setting norms and standards; (iv) articulating evidence-based policy options; (v) providing technical support to countries; and (vi) monitoring and assessing health trends. The European Region (EURO) of WHO is made up of 53 countries, with over 880 million people. The diversity of
people and health situations requires, on the demand side, a solid understanding of the emerging socio-economic, epidemiologic and demographic patterns and trends at both aggregate as well as national and sub-national levels, with due sensitivity to disadvantaged populations and vulnerable segments of the society. On the supply side, it is equally crucial to have a solid understanding of the commonalities and divergences of the health systems, the circumstances and political economy under which they have evolved and operate and, more specifically, how these bear upon the way the health system stewardship function of health ministries is carried out. The WHO Country Office
supports the Member States to shape their health policy in line with WHO's principles and values and advocates for an integrated approach to health development. The WHO Country Office administers, consolidates, manages, and enhances WHO collaboration in the country including all resources deployed in the country either permanently or temporarily to maximize WHO impact.
The Country Office also has a representation, fund-raising and resource steering function, as needed.Under the division of Country Health Policies and Systems (CPS), the Data and Digital Health (DDH) coordinates the digital health flagship and support countries to leverage the use of digital technologies for improving the interface between people and health services; for improving health system performance; and for strengthening critical public health functions including disease surveillance, early warning, and risk assessment. Furthermore, the unit is responsible for data collection, collation, analysis, presentation, and dissemination. It will monitor and measure progress
in achieving the SDGs and the triple billion goals whilst developing and implementing a measurement framework for the EPW. It will provide strategic direction, technical assistance, and tailored support to countries to strengthen their capacity to be able to generate timely, credible, reliable, and actionable data.
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES
The purpose of this position is to assist the Ministry of Health (MOH) of Ukraine in strengthening the health information system through the provision of in-country technical assistance and guidance. This position will enable the WHO Regional Office for Europe (WHO/EURO) to be more responsive and to play a leading role in strengthening the health system through evidencedriven policy design and implementation. Under the overall guidance of the Head of WHO Office in Ukraine and direct supervision of the Health Programme Lead, with close collaboration with the Data and Digital Health (DDH) Unit in WHO European Regional Office in Copenhagen, the incumbent will undertake the following specific responsibilities
1. Provide technical support and contribute in the development/review and implementation of national health information strategy and work towards alignment with national and regional priority health targets and goals;
2. Conduct regular analysis and produce reports and dashboards to monitor key health indicators, track progress
towards national, regional, and global targets, and contribute towards evidence-based decision-making process,
3. In collaboration with the DDH Unit in Euro, support MOH and partners in leveraging new technologies to improve access and quality of healthcare services and enhance public health surveillance.
4. Support the integration of digital health solutions into the existing national health system and provide guidance on monitoring of new initiatives, provide evidence for action
5. Facilitate and participate in national and international health information networks, community of practice, and working groups to exchange best practices and lessons learned. Facilitate relevant government institutions' discussion on EU acquis and provide technical support to address health information-related gaps outlined by the system review process
6. Support periodic health information system assessments, using standard tools, to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Provide technical support to MOH to conduct an internal review of functionality and effectiveness of existing health information systems and identify areas for improvement.
7. Providing capacity building to MOH, NHSU, and UPHC data and information management experts on the use of health information technologies and data management practices. Facilitating review and adoption of standard health information protocols and interoperable systems.
8. Ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations and ethical standards in the collection, storage, and sharing of health information. Organize training for experts at different levels on medical data confidentiality and security protocols.
9. Coordinate with MOH, NHSU, UPHC, and other government counterparts to promote integrated information systems to promote data sharing, interoperability, and collaboration across sectors.
10. Serve as a national focal point on health information and digital health. Ensure timely submission of annual health data to WHO regional and headquarters levels as part of regional and global commitment.
11. Perform other health information-related duties
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education
Essential: A university degree (Bachelor's level) in health informatics, information technology, epidemiology, public health, or equivalent areas relevant to this position.
Desirable: Master's degree or advanced training in any of the above.
Experience
Essential:
At least 2 years of professional experience at the national level working in health systems/public health and health information-related areas, particularly digital health technologies. Demonstrated experience working with/within public projects and working with multiple stakeholders, such as national policymakers, NGOs, and the private sector, in the area of public health and information management. Good knowledge of EHealth architecture and the national medical information systems (MIS) environment in Ukraine.
Desirable:
Functional Knowledge and Skills
1.Demonstrated knowledge of health information systems and global and regional standards.
2.Familiarity with digital health applications in health systems and public health.
3.Knowledge of the principles of health information, epidemiology, and biostatistics.
4.Demonstrated analytical, presentation, and report-writing skills.
5.Proven ability to work comfortably in an international, multi-disciplinary, fast-paced environment.
6.Demonstrated knowledge of the goals and procedures of international organizations (United Nations system, donors, major non-governmental organizations)
7.Ability to identify and manage one's own emotions, as well as helping others do the same. Educational Qualifications
WHO Competencies
1. Teamwork
2. Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
3. Communication
4. Producing results
5. Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond
Use of Language Skills
Essential: Expert knowledge of English. Expert knowledge of Ukrainian.
Desirable: Knowledge of Other Official WHO Language.
REMUNERATION
Remuneration comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 38,776 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable) and 30 days of annual leave.