Health Information Systems Support

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established in 194

• Its mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve the vulnerable, ensuring that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health. WHO leads global efforts to expand universal health coverage, coordinates responses to health emergencies, and promotes healthier lives across all stages of life. The organization operates in multiple countries worldwide, working with various partners to implement science-based policies and programs aimed at improving health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The position of Health Information Systems Support is crucial in the context of the Sudan country office health emergency program. The candidate will be responsible for supporting the development and implementation of health-related information systems that are essential for the collection, collation, analysis, tracking, and dissemination of epidemic intelligence information. This role is vital as Sudan faces significant health challenges due to armed conflict and infectious hazards, leading to increased risks of disease outbreaks among vulnerable communities. The candidate will work closely with the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH) and other partners to enhance the capacity of surveillance systems, ensuring timely and accurate data collection and reporting to inform public health responses. The role requires a proactive approach to improving epidemic data management and facilitating effective communication among stakeholders involved in health emergency responses.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide technical inputs in the development and review of electronic disease surveillance platforms and tools at both national and subnational levels to strengthen routine disease surveillance and response.
• Support the development and review of training materials for the implementation of electronic disease surveillance platforms, ensuring that health workers are adequately trained.
• Collect, analyze, produce, and disseminate data and health information products, including periodic situation reports, epidemiologic bulletins, rapid needs assessments, and health risk assessments.
• Aggregate and maintain inter-country information from WHO and partners, including contact lists, performance monitoring, health indicator data, health situation data, and health response data.
• Participate in basic geographic analysis for health-related information, creating maps and reports such as dashboards and situation reports.
• Facilitate information sharing between WHO, the Federal Ministry of Health, and health cluster partners, contributing to inter-sectoral dashboards and reports.
• Participate in field epidemiological surveys as needed, such as mortality and vaccination coverage surveys, to gather essential data.
• Provide information management input into planning and data/information management processes, including data gathering, analysis, quality assurance, performance monitoring, and information dissemination.
• Support and initiate the development of relevant studies and perform advanced statistical analysis. 1
• Perform all other related duties as assigned by supervisors, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong technical skills in health information systems and data management. They should have experience in developing and implementing electronic disease surveillance platforms and tools. Proficiency in data analysis and the ability to produce health information products are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a challenging environment. Knowledge of public health principles and practices, particularly in emergency settings, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A degree in public health, epidemiology, health informatics, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in health information systems or data management are preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of health surveillance systems and data analysis methodologies.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in health information systems, data management, or public health surveillance. Experience working in emergency settings or conflict-affected areas is highly advantageous. Familiarity with WHO guidelines and protocols is a plus, as is experience in training health workers on data collection and reporting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of WHO. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable, given the local context and the need for effective communication with local health authorities and partners. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Khartoum, which is currently one of the safer operational areas in Sudan. However, candidates should be prepared for challenging living conditions, including limited access to basic services and frequent power outages. The role may involve working in a high-stress environment, requiring resilience and adaptability. The contract duration and specific compensation details are not specified in the job posting, but candidates should be aware of the potential for a demanding work schedule and the need for cultural sensitivity in a unique operational context.