Health System Response Project Job Vacancy - Project Officer 2023

The Health System Enhancement Project (HSEP) is a project aimed at developing primary healthcare services in Sri Lanka, funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The project has a total value of USD 60 million, with USD 37.5 million provided as a concessionary loan, USD 12.5 million as a grant, and USD 10 million as a counterpart contribution from the Government of Sri Lanka. It follows a project investment approach and has been effective since February 5th, 2019, with a planned completion date of November 2023. The project will be implemented across all nine districts of the Central, North Central, Uva, and Sabaragamuwa Provinces.

The primary goal of the project is to enhance the efficiency, equity, and responsiveness of the primary healthcare system by focusing on universal health coverage and the provision of high-quality essential health services. It aims to adopt an equity perspective in planning and delivering primary health services, with a particular emphasis on reducing bypassing of primary healthcare facilities and providing comprehensive services for non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The project also aims to develop a referral system and integrate preventive and curative services effectively. Additionally, it seeks to improve access to primary healthcare for underserved communities and address gaps in core public health surveillance in alignment with international health regulations (IHR).

The project targets all nine districts in the Central, North Central, Sabaragamuwa, and Uva Provinces, with a specific focus on geographically, socially, and economically deprived populations. Approximately 7 million individuals, which accounts for 33% of Sri Lanka's population (21 million), are expected to benefit from the project. Within the four provinces, the target population is estimated to be around 2.4 million.

The intended impact of the project is to contribute to the government's objective of achieving a healthier nation with a comprehensive primary healthcare system. The desired outcome is an improvement in the efficiency, equity, and responsiveness of the primary healthcare system.

Key indicators have been identified to monitor the project's progress and success:

• A 20% increase in outpatient utilization at primary healthcare centers.
• A 20% increase in patient satisfaction, knowledge, and positive attitudes towards healthcare utilization.
• Investigation of 90% of notified notifiable diseases within the specified time frame in the medical officer of health areas of the target provinces.
• Implementation and evaluation of cluster system reform in all nine clusters.

Through the implementation of the Health System Enhancement Project, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its primary healthcare system, ensuring that essential health services are accessible, equitable, and of high quality for all its citizens.

The Project Officer will play a crucial role in the implementation and coordination of the Health System Enhancement Project (HSEP). Working closely with the project team, government officials, and stakeholders, the Project Officer will ensure the efficient and effective delivery of project activities in line with the project objectives. This position requires strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills, as well as a solid understanding of project management principles and the healthcare sector.

Project Implementation:

• Support the planning, coordination, and monitoring of project activities according to the project work plan.
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure the timely execution of project deliverables.
• Assist in the development of project guidelines, protocols, and standard operating procedures.
• Monitor project progress, identify bottlenecks, and propose solutions to ensure project milestones are achieved.
• Prepare regular reports on project activities, including progress updates, challenges, and recommendations.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Establish and maintain effective communication channels with key stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare institutions, and community representatives.
• Coordinate meetings, workshops, and trainings to facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
• Provide technical support and guidance to stakeholders on project-related matters.
• Collect feedback from stakeholders and incorporate it into project planning and decision-making processes.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess project outcomes and impact.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret data to measure project performance against established indicators.
• Identify areas for improvement and recommend strategies to enhance project effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with monitoring and evaluation requirements, including data collection, reporting, and documentation.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain comprehensive project records, including contracts, agreements, and correspondence.
• Prepare accurate and timely reports on project activities, expenditures, and outcomes.
• Assist in the preparation of project documentation, such as progress reports, presentations, and briefing materials.
• Contribute to knowledge management efforts by documenting best practices and lessons learned from the project.

Team Collaboration:

• Collaborate with the project team members to ensure effective communication, coordination, and synergy.
• Provide support and guidance to project staff and consultants as needed.
• Foster a positive working environment that promotes teamwork, innovation, and continuous learning.

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as public health, project management, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in project management, preferably in the healthcare sector or development projects.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in data analysis, monitoring, and evaluation techniques.
• Knowledge of healthcare systems, primary healthcare principles, and universal health coverage concepts.
• Familiarity with government procedures and regulations related to project implementation.
• Proficient in using project management tools and software.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Fluency in written and spoken English. Knowledge of local languages is an asset.