WHO Seeks Qualified Data and Digital Health Consultants to Support International Digital Health Projects (Remote)
The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking to establish a comprehensive roster of qualified specialists and consultants in the field of Data and Digital Health (DDH). Among the key positions available is the role of a Data and Digital Health Specialist, designated as a Consultant (position code: 2501531). This consultancy opportunity is designed to bolster the capacity of WHO’s Digital Health initiatives, supporting various projects, policies, and strategies to advance digital health solutions across countries and regions.
Position Overview
The Data and Digital Health Specialist will serve as an external consultant for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension depending on project needs and funding. The position is classified as full-time and offers a flexible location, allowing candidates from anywhere in the world to apply. The role is hosted within the EU/CPS Division of Country Health Policies and Systems at WHO Europe, emphasizing strategic support for digital health development in the European region and beyond. The initial job posting was made on May 13, 2025, and applications are open until June 24, 2025, with the closing deadline set for 11:59 PM.
Purpose and Objectives of the Consultancy
The primary goal of this consultancy is to enhance the capacity of the WHO Data and Digital Health (DDH) programme by creating a diverse, skilled roster of experts in digital health. This roster will encompass specialists with expertise spanning various technical domains, geographical regions, and gender representation, ensuring a balanced and inclusive pool of talent.
The overarching aim is to support the development and implementation of digital health strategies, policies, and governance frameworks. The specialists will contribute their expertise towards strengthening health information systems, digital public infrastructure, and national digital health architectures. Their work will encompass digital health literacy, cybersecurity, data standards and interoperability, telehealth, legislative frameworks, and emerging digital health trends, all aimed at improving health outcomes, equity, and human rights.
Background Context
Digital health has been identified as a priority area within the European Programme of Work (EPW). The WHO Regional Office for Europe’s DDH unit orchestrates digital health initiatives, providing strategic guidance, technical support, and policy advice to countries to leverage digital technologies effectively. The unit’s work emphasizes ensuring health equity, gender equality, and human rights in the deployment of digital health solutions.
The DDH unit supports countries in integrating digital tools to improve health service delivery, disease surveillance, early warning systems, and health system performance. It also explores innovative methodologies such as big data analytics, telemedicine, and digital health monitoring systems to complement traditional public health approaches. The unit’s efforts are aligned with the WHO European Region’s Digital Health Action Plan 2023–2030, which guides regional strategies and priorities.
Key Responsibilities and Deliverables
The Data and Digital Health Specialists listed on this roster will collaborate with WHO Europe’s technical teams, country offices, and international partners. Their contributions will include supporting the development of digital health products, policies, and initiatives at national and regional levels. They will provide technical expertise across a broad spectrum of digital health domains, including but not limited to:
- Digital health strategy, governance, legislation, regulation, and financing
- Design, procurement, and maintenance of digital health services and applications (e.g., electronic health records, telemedicine platforms, clinical decision support tools)
- Cybersecurity and data privacy measures
- Digital health literacy programs and capacity building
- Emerging trends, innovations, and best practices in digital health
- Interoperability standards and data sharing protocols, particularly in the context of the European Health Data Space (EHDS)
- Development of digital health networks and computing architectures
- Application of digital technologies in public health monitoring, including GIS, infodemic management, health security, climate change impacts, and noncommunicable disease prevention
- Addressing ethical, gender, and human rights considerations in digital health initiatives
The specialists will deliver tailored outputs based on specific needs. These include providing technical assistance for policy development, conducting assessments of existing digital health systems, supporting the alignment with international standards, and facilitating knowledge exchange. They will also assist in evaluating the impact of digital health interventions on health outcomes, equity, and human rights, and support the development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks.
Scope of Work and Activities
The consultancy involves several core activities, such as:
- Supporting countries in developing and strengthening digital health strategies and governance structures
- Conducting situational analyses and baseline evaluations using WHO tools and guidelines
- Advising on regulatory and legislative frameworks, especially concerning health data access and electronic health records
- Providing technical leadership on digital health solutions, including telehealth, cybersecurity, and health data standards
- Assisting in the development and deployment of digital health services and applications
- Building capacity through training workshops, technical guidance, and knowledge-sharing sessions
- Promoting international cooperation and collaboration among stakeholders through organizing workshops and facilitating multi-country networks
- Supporting efforts to integrate digital health solutions into national health systems, ensuring sustainability and scalability
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates for this consultancy should possess a strong educational background, with a first university degree in fields such as health informatics, computer science, data science, public health, or law related to digital health. Additional specialized training or advanced degrees in these areas are desirable.
A minimum of five years of relevant experience is essential, with a proven track record in designing, managing, and assessing digital health products, programs, and policies. Experience in managing complex digital health architectures, conducting stakeholder workshops, and working with health ministries on national health policies is highly valued.
Skills and Knowledge Requirements
Applicants should demonstrate deep knowledge of digital health project development, health system transformation, and international standards. Strong stakeholder management, communication skills, and the ability to engage with senior policymakers are crucial. Familiarity with health data privacy, gender and human rights considerations in digital environments, and IT infrastructure (including cloud computing, cybersecurity, and enterprise architecture) is required.
Proficiency in English is essential, with working knowledge of Russian considered an advantage.
Location and Travel
While the consultancy is primarily home-based, there may be a need for on-site work and travel to support in-country missions, depending on the specific project requirements, funding, and organizational needs.
Remuneration
Compensation will be commensurate with the scope and complexity of tasks, as well as the candidate’s experience and qualifications. The remuneration structure follows WHO’s established pay bands for international consultants, excluding travel costs.
This consultancy opportunity offers a unique platform for experienced digital health professionals to contribute to shaping digital health policies, strengthening health systems, and promoting health equity across the WHO European Region and beyond. Successful applicants will work within a dynamic environment, collaborating with global experts and national stakeholders to advance innovative solutions that improve health outcomes worldwide.
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