Primary Care Counsellor

Project DescriptionThe Accelerated and Comprehensive HIV Care for Epidemic Control in Zimbabwe (ACCE) project aims to strengthen the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC)’s efforts toward achieving and sustaining HIV epidemic control. It does so by supporting HIV Care and Treatment activities such as enhancing HIV testing strategies to effectively identify people living with HIV (PLHIV). The project also ensures that newly diagnosed individuals are promptly linked to treatment, and that those already on antiretroviral therapy (ART) have consistent access, are retained in care, and maintain viral suppression. Additionally, ACCE promotes access to essential prevention services for PLHIV, including TB preventive therapy and cervical cancer screening. The program is currently being implemented in nine districts across Midlands (Gweru, Kwekwe, Mberengwa, and Gokwe South) and Manicaland (Makoni, Mutare, Chipinge, Mutasa, and Buhera).Position SummaryThe ZHI Primary Care Counsellor (PCC) will be seconded to the MOHCC health facilities to support the provision of quality HIV testing and counselling services. The cadre will work closely with the health facility leadership and the ZHI Service Delivery and Sustainability Lead. The cadre will also support the project’s community-based HIV services, including community testing, defaulter tracking, and community DSD models. The cadre will report to the Service Delivery and Sustainability Lead and will work very closely with the facility staff.Duties and Responsibilities Provide quality HIV testing and counselling services Screen patient for HIV testing using the MOHCC screening tool and or HIV Self-Test Services Ensure facility and community index testing for contacts of index cases Provide intimate partner screening and LIVES support or refer LIVES support Ensure all identified PLHIV are linked to life-long treatment and care Explore sexual network testing approach at community level and ensuring linkages to care and treatment and work closely with community nurse and ensure HIV index testing for all clients Strengthen health facility and community linkages through working closely with MOHCCsite nurses and community-based health workers in the development of robust referral systems for PLWHIV. Ensure retention in care of PLHIV through formation and maintenance of community HIV DSD models, Support groups and defaulter identification and tracking and tracing. FacilitateFacilitate VL VL testing to clients at facility, community outreach, CARGS and and otwith hh Providing enhanced adherence counselling to PLHIV at both facility and at community level and referring to health facilities and other service providers as may be needed where required Support the facilities to mobilize PLHIV for community DSD models at the facility level in liaison with facility leadership to conduct community mobilization, demand creation, as well as facilitate the formation and strengthening of community ART refill groups (CARGs) and support groups To screen for and be able to provide or refer for AHD diagnostics, including CD4 Visitect, TB LAM, and serum CRAG To ensure continuity of treatment of PLHIV Support defaulter identification, tracking, and tracing Any other activities as directed by the supervisor RequirementsThe responsibilities of this position require the post holder to have regular contact with vulnerable individuals. Therefore, the candidate must have no previous safeguarding issues. The post holder is also required to comply with ZHI’s safeguarding policies and guidance.The position holder is expected to fully adhere to all relevant U.S. laws and policies, including those governing abortion-related restrictions Knowledge, skills & abilities Proficiency in English and relevant local language. Knowledge of community health practices and general medical ethics Demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently within a team and health facility settings Ability to analyze and report relevant activities. Sound knowledge of HIV care and treatment practices in Zimbabwe Results-oriented and able to meet project deliverables Computer literacy is a must Qualifications and experience Primary Care Counsellor certificate or equivalent (MOHCC). At least 2 years of experience in HIV testing services, including enhanced adherence counselling of PLWHIV with High Viral Loads. RGN/PCN/Primary Care Nursing or equivalent is an added advantage. Advanced HIV disease screening and testing is an added advantage. OI/ ART experience is an added advantage. Certificate in Rapid HIV Testing and Counselling is a must. Ability to ride a motorcycle is an added advantage. Good five Ordinary level passes including English.