Jamaica has an estimated HIV prevalence of 1.5% among the general population. Based on modeled estimates and case based surveillance data, it is estimated that 32,000 persons (National HIV Programme, 2021) are currently living with HIV in Jamaica. Approximately 86% of the estimated number is aware of their status. This is followed by a large gap in the continuum of care with 51% of those diagnosed on ARVs and 78% of those on treatment being virally suppressed (National HIV Programme, 2022).
The use of antiretroviral medication has increased significantly over the last decade, which has saved the lives of millions of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). Increased use of HIV medicines has been accompanied by the emergence of HIV drug resistance, the levels of which have been increasing. HIV drug resistance can compromise the effectiveness of anti-retroviral drugs in reducing HIV incidence and HIV associated morbidity and mortality. Minimising the spread of HIV drug resistance is a critical aspect of the global response to antimicrobial resistance that coordinated action across all government sectors and levels of society. Stopping HIV drug resistance is important to ensure the long-term efficacy and durability of available medicines to treat HIV (WHO, 2021).
HIV drug resistance (HIVDR) is caused by changes in the genetic structure of HIV that affect the ability of medicines to block the replication of the virus (WHO, 2021). HIVDR threatens the cost effectiveness and efficiency of any HIV programme. The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) adopted the WHO’s recommendation for prevention and assessment of HIVDR and through partnership with the Pan American Health Organization, gained the capacity for HIV DR testing in 2019.
A HIVDR committee was formed and HIVDR protocols were instituted to guide health care workers in the eligibility and process flow, for clients requiring HIVDR testing. Based on this protocol, the treatment sites would submit requests for PLHIV for HIVDR. After review by the HIVDR committee it would be determined if the client required HIVDR at this time and the recommended course of action would be communicated to the treatment site.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Possession of a Master’s Degree in Public Health or Health related field
• Certification in Public Health would be an asset
REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Min. 2 years in development of guidelines and protocols
• Min. 3yrs field experience in HIV management, education or management
• A minimum of 5 years’ medical experience in the health sector
• Experience in drug resistance testing
REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
• Knowledge of HIV and STI prevention and medical management
• Ability to work on his/her own initiative
• Excellent communication, facilitation, interpersonal and management skills
• Strong research, problem solving and analytical skills
• Keen attention to detail
Expression of interest in the form of an Application Letter and Curriculum Vitae must be sent via email to
oleetina.lewis@moh.gov.jm on or before Tuesday, December 6, 2022, no later than 3:00 pm.
The detailed Terms of Reference can be viewed on the MOH Website at moh.gov.jm.
Applicants are required to have or obtain a valid copy of Tax Compliance Certificate (TCC).
Public Procurement Officer
Public Procurement Branch
Ministry of Health & Wellness
52-60 Grenada Crescent
Kingston 5
We thank all applicants, however, please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted