Position: Counselor
No. of vacancy: 1
Location: Bharatpur 

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), headquartered in Los Angeles, is a global nonprofit organization committed to providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over two million individuals across 47 countries. Since its establishment in 1987, AHF has played a pivotal role in expanding healthcare access and influencing policies to improve the lives of people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. AHF Nepal, as part of this global initiative, is dedicated to combating HIV/AIDS and strengthening public health systems. It is currently implementing a five-year project (2022–2027) titled Sustaining the Gain, enhancing HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care services at ART clinics of Nepal. AHF Nepal invites online applications from qualified and competent Nepalese candidates for the position of ART Counselor at Bharatpur.

Position Overview

The Counselor plays an important role in providing comprehensive care and counseling to clients as per national guidelines. In collaboration with other health professionals, PLHIVs and KPs networks, Counselor offers counseling; prevention, testing, treatment and care services; maintains record of patients’ care; coordinates form treatment literacy sessions for clients and medical education sessions HCWs; and provide reports to supervisor.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATION AND SKILLS

• Intermediate (Proficiency Certificate) in General Medicine (Health Assistant) or Nursing (Staff Nurse) from recognized institution and registered in relevant professional council
• Clinical experience: At least two years of experience in similar position. Previous experience working in a healthcare setting, particularly in HIV/AIDS care or related fields, is highly desirable. This can include experience as a nurse, physician assistant, or other healthcare roles.
• Knowledge of HIV/AIDS: A strong understanding of HIV/AIDS, its transmission, treatment, and care is essential. Familiarity with antiretroviral therapy (ART) and its management, as well as knowledge of current guidelines and best practices in HIV/AIDS care, is important.
• Counseling and Support Skills: Experience in providing counseling and support services to individuals living with HIV/AIDS or other chronic illnesses is valuable. This includes skills in empathy, active listening, and the ability to address emotional, psychological, and social needs of patients.
• Clinic Operations: Experience in clinic operations, including appointment scheduling, medical record management, and coordination with healthcare providers, is beneficial. Familiarity with electronic medical records (DHIS2/ONHIS) systems and healthcare administration processes is advantageous.
• Teamwork and Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for collaborating with healthcare providers, patients, and community organizations. The ability to work effectively in an interdisciplinary team setting is crucial.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Experience working with diverse populations and an understanding of cultural, social, and economic factors influencing HIV/AIDS care is important. Sensitivity to issues related to stigma, discrimination, and health disparities is valuable.
• Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of relevant regulations, ethical guidelines, and confidentiality requirements related to HIV/AIDS care, patient privacy, and data management is necessary.
• Continuous Learning: Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development and staying updated on advancements and research in HIV/AIDS care is important.