National Consultant to Review the Legal and Regulatory Framework for Nursing

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a critical role in coordinating global health responses and setting health standards. The organization focuses on various health issues, including communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response. WHO's work is guided by the principles of equity, inclusiveness, and respect for human rights, aiming to ensure that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to conduct a comprehensive review of Vietnam's legal and regulatory framework governing nursing practice. This involves identifying gaps, overlaps, and inconsistencies in the current regulations, particularly concerning the scope of practice, professional responsibilities, and the nursing process. The consultant will also focus on developing a standardized national list of nursing diagnoses to enhance the consistency and quality of nursing practice. The review is crucial for ensuring that nursing regulations are clear, consistent, and effectively implemented across health facilities, thereby improving patient safety and care quality. The consultant will work closely with the WHO Country Office in Vietnam to provide technical advice to the Ministry of Health (MOH) and support the development of nursing policies in line with global standards and local needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key deliverables, including:

• Collaborating with WHO teams to consolidate technical advice on legislative documents related to nursing practice.
• Conducting analyses of the regulatory and institutional frameworks relevant to nursing outcomes within the Joint MOH-WHO Project Document.
• Tracking the legislative agenda in Vietnam, providing periodic reports on health-related laws and regulations under development or revision.
• Producing monthly progress reports detailing advancements on the deliverables. The consultant may also participate in meetings and workshops, providing technical expertise and feedback on legislative matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s or higher degree in nursing, health law, health policy, public health, health systems, or a related field relevant to nursing regulation. Additionally, candidates should have strong coordination and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to review and interpret legal documents and translate findings into actionable recommendations. The consultant should demonstrate a commitment to ethical standards and professional integrity, aligning with WHO's values.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree or higher in nursing, health law, health policy, public health, health systems, or a closely related field is essential for this position. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of nursing regulations and the legal frameworks that govern health practices in Vietnam.

Experience:
A minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience is required, specifically in nursing practice, nursing regulation, health law, health policy, or the development and implementation of health-sector regulations. Experience coordinating technical reviews or consultations with government agencies, professional councils, health facilities, and development partners is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken Vietnamese is mandatory, along with working proficiency in English. The consultant should be capable of reviewing technical materials and preparing concise reports and presentations in both languages, ensuring effective communication with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 6 months, with part-time work limited to 45 working days. The consultant will be compensated at a rate of USD 110 per day, excluding travel costs. The position may require occasional travel to Hanoi, depending on project needs. Candidates should be aware that WHO's recruitment process includes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply. Additionally, WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of tobacco.