We improve lives
The IDB Group is a community of diverse, versatile, and passionate people who come together on a journey to improve lives in Latin America and the Caribbean. Our people find purpose and do what they love in an inclusive, collaborative, agile, and rewarding environment.
About this position
We are looking for a consultant to support the design and implementation of the telehealth pilot for mental health in Belize that is context-appropriate to assess its feasibility and scalability. The pilot will be designed for the Cayo and Stann Creek districts of Belize and should detail the necessary protocols and requirements to include it into the health system’s routine operations.
The IABD is supporting Belize to address mental health challenges by conducting and evaluating a pilot for telehealth for mental health in the country in the context of the recently approved loan (BL-1048) and the regional technical cooperation (RG-T4600). While there is evidence on the effectiveness of telehealth for certain mental health conditions, there is limited operational evidence in LAC and in the country on how to design a scalable model of care that could effectively leverage telehealth to improve access to quality care.
What you’ll do
- Telehealth for mental health models review: Review relevant evidence and telehealth models for mental health to reach remote communities in LAC and similar developing states, including models supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). All this to inform the design of Belize's mobile and telehealth-integrated mental health model.
- Clinical scope and eligibility: Identify which mental health conditions can be effectively managed through a telehealth model, including criteria for patient eligibility and clinical exclusions. Specify how and when to switch from telehealth to in-person consultations.
- Service delivery model: Define the governance structure, patient flow pathways, screening/triage, referrals, treatment and follow-up care adapted for telehealth. In addition, specify requirements for the model locations of care, connectivity standards, equipment needs.
- Care modalities and contingencies: Define appropriate use of video, audio-only, and asynchronous communication, and establish protocols for patient safety and privacy, including during connectivity failures.
- Human resources: Identify eligible provider profiles, competencies, supervision arrangements, and training requirements and content. Clarify roles and responsibilities of all personnel involved.
- Regulatory framework: Map legal/policy requirements to telehealth provision and identify the policy enablers, such as licensing, data protection, health record integration, informed consent protocols.
- Medico-legal and crisis management: Define patient and provider obligations during telehealth encounters, liability sharing, documentation standards, and protocols for psychiatric emergencies.
- Sustainability and Scalability: Propose mechanisms to integrate the pilot into routine operations. Identify conditions and funding for expanding the model to additional facilities.
- Accessibility and inclusion: Ensure culturally appropriate and equitable access mechanisms
- Patient education and community engagement: Develop public awareness campaigns, onboarding materials explaining access, expectations, and troubleshooting.
What you'll need
- Education: Master’s degree or equivalent in health sector
- Experience: At least 8 years of experience in the health sector, including a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience in mental health and telehealth
- Languages: Proficiency in Spanish and English, spoken and written, is required. Additional knowledge of French and Portuguese is preferable.
Requirements
- Citizenship: You are a citizen of one of our 48-member countries.
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Consanguinity: You have no family members (up to the fourth degree of consanguinity and second degree of affinity, including spouse) working at the IDB, IDB Invest, or IDB Lab.
If consultant (Local Remote Modality): The selected candidate will not provide services from the Bank's office and will not be provided a physical space on the premises of the Bank's Country Office. The candidate selected will be responsible for setting up the space, and for having the equipment, internet, and phone accesses to accomplish these TORs, outside the Bank's office. Access to the Bank's systems will be arranged in coordination with the Bank.
Type of contract and duration
- Type of contract: Products and External Services Consultant (PEC)
- Length of contract: 4 months
- Work Location: Remote
Our culture
At the IDB, we work so everyone brings their best and authentic selves to work while finding their purpose. Our people consistently strive for excellence, and we recognize and celebrate the impact of their contributions.
In our efforts to drive innovation, we intentionally include all voices, cultivate a sense of belonging and champion fairness. We welcome individuals from underrepresented groups to join us and share their unique perspectives.
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