EMR HIE/Interoperability Framework consultant

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Please see deliverables included in attached ToR

1.Purpose of the Consultancy
The purpose of the consultancy is to provide technical support for the development of a practical and Operational Interoperability Framework for Health Information Exchange in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) aligned with regional strategy for fostering digital health in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EM/RC69/R.6); and facilitating the dialogue of stakeholders and partners for adoption of framework to address health information exchange challenges.

2.Background
The critical importance of health data exchange and interoperability is firmly recognized by Member States through regional commitments, e.g., RC 2022 (regional strategy for digital health) and RC 2024 (Enhancement and digitalization of health information systems). It is further established as a national priority within country-level digital health strategies and roadmaps.
Despite this high-level commitment, most countries in the region lack interoperability standards, compromising the ability of health information systems to access, exchange, and use data cohesively. This gap leads to data silos, impedes evidence-based decision-making, and ultimately hinders the provision of seamless, efficient, and high-quality health services.
To address this urgent need, we seek high-level consultancy support to develop a practical, operational interoperability framework. This document will provide Member States with a standardized model, checklist, and key indicators to guide and measure the implementation of interoperable health information systems.

3.Work to be performed
Output 1: Develop the operational interoperability framework for the implementation of EM/RC69/R.6 and regional action plan for digital health
Deliverable 1.1: Conduct a rapid but thorough review of existing interoperability initiatives (both successful and challenged) within a sample of Member States in the region.
Deliverable 1.2: Analyse globally recognized interoperability frameworks (e.g., HL7 FHIR, IHE, EU eHealth Digital Service Infrastructure), distilling relevant and adaptable principles for the regional context.
Deliverable 1.3: Facilitate and conduct virtual/in-person consultations with key regional and country-level stakeholders, including Ministry of Health officials, IT directors, public health program managers, and private sector partners, to gather input and build consensus.
Deliverable 1.4: Draft the core Operational Interoperability Framework, ensuring it is aligned with regional strategies (RC 2022, RC 2024) for review then produce the final version structured to be directly usable by national digital health teams. Include interoperability implementation checklist and indicators.
Deliverable 1.5: Ensure the framework is applicable to the requirements of the four groups of the countries (low, middle, high-income, and emergency-affected countries)
Output 2: Development of a framework development report (to be used for manuscript) with methodology and results and high-level advocacy materials.
Deliverable 3.1: Develop framework development report summarizing the process, findings, and recommendations (to be used for manuscript).
Deliverable 3.2: Develop high level presentation and brochure on the framework for senior WHO staff, policy influencers, and policymakers on behalf of the program in key meetings as requested.

4.Specific requirements
Essential Qualifications:
An advanced university degree (Master’s level or above) for mid and high end of range in digital health, information technology, information management, computer sciences, health systems, public health, development.
Desirable qualifications:
Qualification in interoperability, health information exchange, public health, health governance.

Experience required:
5-10 years of proven relevant hands-on experience in the design, implementation, and governance of large-scale digital health systems, with a specific focus on health data exchange and interoperability.
International experience is required for international consultants

Skills / Technical skills and knowledge:
Technical Expertise: Deep, practical knowledge of global health data standards (e.g., HL7 FHIR, CDA, SNOMED CT, LOINC, IHE profiles) and health information architectures (e.g., Enterprise Architecture, Health Information Exchanges).
Strategic Perspective: Demonstrated experience in developing national or regional digital health strategies, policies, or frameworks, preferably in a multi-country context.
Stakeholder Facilitation: Excellent communication and facilitation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior government officials and technical experts to build consensus.
Regional/Contextual Knowledge: Prior working experience in the EMR or similar contexts is highly desirable.
Language requirements:
• Excellent ability to write and communicate in English (required),
• Arabic literacy (preferable)
• Knowledge of French would be an advantage

5.Place of assignment:
Cairo, Egypt (remote only)
6.Travel
The Consultant may be expected to travel, including for taking up assignment; itinerary and estimated schedule will be agreed upon as required.
All travel arrangements will be made by WHO – WHO will not be responsible for tickets purchased by the Consultant without the express, prior authorization of WHO. While on mission under the terms of this consultancy, the Consultant will receive a subsistence allowance in line with the instructions applicable locally or up to the maximum of the UN DSA.
The Consultant may apply for a UN Certificate prior to travelling.
Visas requirements: it is the Consultant’s responsibility to fulfil visa requirements and ask for visa support letter(s) if needed.

7. Remuneration and budget
Remuneration: Band B

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