The MDR TB Program Officer will support the Lakka TB Hospital operational and implementation activities. This position will report directly to the HIV and TB Program Manager and will coordinate the Psychosocial counsellor and social worker based in Lakka Hospital. This position will ensure that PIH support to MDR TB and TB patients is appropriately planned, budgeted, delivered, and reported appropriately, in collaboration with the MoH leadership team allocated in Lakka Hospital. The MDR TB program officer will work with the team to guarantee a good follow-up on ambulatory care and inpatient care for patients.

Responsibilities 

Work with all the teams to ensure that PIH support to MDR TB and TB patients is appropriately planned, budgeted, delivered, and reported appropriately, in collaboration with the MoH leadership team allocated in Lakka Hospital and under the HIV and TB Program Manager and ensuring there are monthly reports.

Work in collaboration with other clinical staff (nurses, nursing assistants, laboratory technicians, pharmacists and other care providers) working with TB and MDR-TB patients at Lakka Government hospital to provide the best patient care and support improved clinical outcomes.

Ensure that NTLCP and Lakka hospital leadership are aware of PIH support and get real time updates of PIH support. This MDR TB officer will work as connection between HIV TB Program Manager and the other leadership members from MoH.

Collaborate with the Lab, Pharmacy, Procurement, Infrastructure and Operations teams to ensure infrastructure, equipment, medications, and other supplies meet TB clinical needs, avoid stock-outs, and support strengthened care at the Lakka Government hospital under the supervision of the HIV and TB Program Manager

Support operationally to do the follow-up to patients on ambulatory care in partnership with the Clinical team and NLTCP.

Support expansion of MDR-TB clinical and community activities, in collaboration with the NTLCP and the PIH SL team under the HIV and TB Program Manager.

PIH Principles

Lead by example, embodying the values of PIH, including doing whatever it takes to provide the highest level of service to our patients; treating every member of our organization and community with equal respect and dignity; fostering a sense of generosity and teamwork; and working patiently, yet persistently, to accompany our government partners to achieve our shared goals.

Qualifications

University degree (mainly related with Program management, Administration, Economics or similar)

At least three years of experience working in area of project management

Prior experience in linking clinical departments with different partners (Government, any type of ministry and/or NGOs highly appreciated).

Ability to be flexible and effective in the face of unexpected challenges.

Exemplary interpersonal communication skills, verbal and written, required to effectively engage with senior leadership, partners, and clinicians on sensitive political and confidential issues.

Evidence of providing sensitive and competent quality work in an extremely stressful environment.

Proven ability to exercise good judgment, demonstrate political astuteness, and tact.

Commitment to social justice in health care issues.

Sense of humour, tolerance to frustration and flexible disposition very helpful.

Ability to live in Freetown and work in Lakka hospital for duration of contract.