BACKGROUND
Jamaica has an estimated prevalence of 1.6% among the general population. Based on modeled estimates and case based surveillance data, it is estimated that 29,000 persons are currently living with HIV in Jamaica. Approximately 84% of the estimated number is aware of their status. This is followed by a large gap in the continuum of care with 43% of those diagnosed on ARVs and 55% of those on treatment being virally suppressed.
SCOPE OF WORK
The consultant will be expected to:
- Make recommendations as to the most effective approaches to ensure adherence to ARVs by PLWHAS being followed at local Treatment site.
- Develop recommendations as to programmatic implications and linkages with existing programs such as VCT and MTCT and Nutrition services
- Develop in Collaboration with Multidisciplinary team adherence support groups for PLWHAs at Local Treatment Centres.
- Facilitate development of structured mechanisms within support groups to address psychosocial and environmental barriers to effective adherence.
- Facilitate the provision of psychosocial support to PLWHAs and caregivers to improve efficacy in meeting the psychosocial needs of clients on ARV.
- Carry out orientation to Clinic for new clinic attendees
- Develop “Buddy System” for PLWHA support on an ongoing basis
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Five CXC subjects or equivalent inclusive of Mathematics and English
OR
- High school diploma or diploma from technical school/HEART
REQUIRED SKILLS AND SPECIALIZED TECHNIQUES
- Good human relations skills
- Good time management skills
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Sound Knowledge of HIV/AIDS basic facts.
- Ability to provide counseling and compassionate care and support for PLWHAs
- Knowledge in the area of Antiretrovirals and Opportunistic drug use will be an asset.
- Must demonstrate ability to provide Counseling and Compassionate care and support for PLWHAs.
- Training in VCT Counseling or delivery of Home Based Care is an asset
SPECIAL CONDITIONS ASSOCIATED WITH JOB
- May be required to work beyond normal working hours, including weekends
- Required to keep accurate data
EXPECTED RESULTS
It is expected that the consultancy will enhance the capacity of Treatment Sites to provide comprehensive Treatment and Care to PLWHA attending Clinics at the various sites via the implementation adherence and support group programmes. The consultant will design general strategies and formulate short term and long-term adherence plans for PLWHAs that integrates various disciplines; counseling, psychosocial support, nutritional, community and home based care, clinical management and nursing care.
REPORTS
The consultant will present a progress report on a monthly basis presenting the results and progress of the work. The report should be presented to the MOH on a monthly basis and should highlight progress in line with the initial workplan.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIP
REPORTS TO:
- Parish Social Worker, and indirectly reports to Regional Social Worker Coordinator
SUPERVISION GIVEN TO:
- Directly: none
- Indirectly: none
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