Term of Reference (ToR) Field Assistant Officer  

Procurement Number: 
23SANIC220

Open Date: 
September 9, 2024 

Questions Deadline: 
September 13, 2024 

Closing Deadline: 
September 19, 2024 

Geographical Area Restrictions: 
Bokeo province 

Point of Contact: 
Chindavanh Signhalath;  

E-mail: chindavanh.chias@gmail.com Mobile: 020 91731133

Background: 

The Community Health and Inclusion Association (CHIAs) is a registered non-profit Lao Civil Society  organization with over 20 years of experience in promoting health and inclusion among key vulnerable  populations in Laos. CHIAs is currently the main Sub-Recipient for the Integrated People-Centred  Health System Strengthening Model (IPC-HSSM) project, funded by L’Initiative, Expertise France  (EF) and implemented through the Lao Ministry of Health’s Department of Communicable Disease  Control (DCDC). This project aims to eliminate malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis in Bokeo Province, Lao  PDR, as part of the country’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The  project’s overarching goal is to strengthen Lao PDR’s health system by transitioning to a sustainable  model through the promotion of an integrated, people-centred approach. This initiative aligns with the  national strategy to improve healthcare accessibility, quality, and outcomes for all citizens, particularly  those in vulnerable communities. 

Position Overview:  

By focusing on these tasks, the Field Assistant will significantly contribute to the project’s goal of  strengthening the health system in Lao PDR and improving healthcare accessibility, quality, and  outcomes for all citizens, particularly in vulnerable communities within Bokeo Province. The main  responsibilities of this position include supporting community outreach supporters, peer counselors,  and village health volunteers in implementing activities related to their plans. This involves following  up on the quality of their work to ensure that target beneficiaries are satisfied with the services provided  by community providers. Additionally, the Field Assistant will support data collection and ensure that  all established indicators are entered into the DHIS2 system on time, as well as assist the provincial  coordinator with assigned tasks. 

Responsibilities: 

1. Community Outreach Support:

– Assist in organizing and participating in community meetings  

– Support distributes informational materials in local languages 

– Coordinate with village leaders to ensure maximum participation  

– Support the adaptation of communication strategies to local customs and beliefs 

2. Health Screening Assistance:

– Set up mobile ACF screening in remote areas and HIV testing for key vulnerable populations – Guide participants through the screening process 

– Ensure proper handling and labeling of samples

  

3. Treatment Adherence Support:

– Maintain a patient database in DHIS2 

– Conduct follow-up visits to ensure treatment adherence\ 

– Provide reminders and support to patients via phone or in-person visits 

– Implement the trio strategy for people affected by TB, HIV, and Malaria 

4. Local Health Facility Coordination:

– Liaise between community members and health centers  

– Schedule appointments for further testing or treatment 

– Maintain accurate records of referrals and treatments  

– Distribute preventive tools (e.g., insecticide-treated bed nets, condoms, TB preventive  therapy) 

– Educate on proper use of preventive tools 

5. Data Management and Reporting:

– Gather data on disease prevalence, treatment outcomes, and community engagement – Enter data into the project’s DHIS2 reporting system at district and provincial levels  – Prepare regular reports for the provincial coordinator  

– Assist in conducting baseline surveys to assess intervention impacts 

6. Health Education and Capacity Building:

– Organize and lead group discussions on disease prevention and health promotion  – Address myths and misconceptions about diseases and treatments  

– Attend training sessions to enhance knowledge and skills related to HIV, TB, and Malaria  – Share information with Village Health Volunteers 

– Monitoring and Evaluation Support:  

7. Gather feedback from community members on health services

– Support the M&E framework to improve project interventions  

– Assist in respecting traditional practices while promoting evidence-based interventions 

8. Supply Chain Management:

– Maintain inventory of medical supplies, including sputum boxes, rapid test kits, and  preventive materials  

– Report monthly stock shortages or surpluses to project coordinators 

9. Cross-cutting Responsibilities:

– Ensure cultural sensitivity in all activities  

– Promote integration of HIV, TB, and Malaria services  

– Support the overall project goals and objectives in the target field  

Education: Bachelor’s degree in public health, community health, or a related field. 

Experience: 1-2 years of experience in community health projects or public health initiatives.  Experience working with local communities in Lao PDR is preferred. 

Skills: 

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills 
• Basic project management and organizational abilities 
• Proficiency in data collection and basic analysis 
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment

  

Knowledge: Basic understanding of malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis, and public health principles. Languages: Fluency in Lao; working knowledge of English is beneficial. 

Cultural Competence: Strong understanding of local customs and ability to work sensitively in diverse  cultural settings. 

Code of Conduct 

All staff are expected to abide by the CHIAs and Expertise France’s Code of Conduct. 

How to Apply 

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications,  experience and 3 references to chindavanh.chias@gmail.com with subject Line (23SANIC220) by the  deadline listed above 

Equal Opportunity 

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our team. We encourage applications from  all qualified individuals, including LGBT, women, ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities. Join us in making a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV, TB, and Malaria in Bokeo.  Together, we can build a healthier and more inclusive future.