Overall purpose of job: 

The Medical Officer (Field-Based) is responsible for the implementation and management of leprosy-related health interventions in designated field areas. This role includes client screening, conducting skin camps, and managing leprosy cases from diagnosis through treatment. The Medical Officer will collaborate with local health authorities, provide clinical guidance to field staff, and ensure compliance with national medical standards and protocols.

Key tasks and responsibilities:

Field Implementation:

• Conduct leprosy and dermatological health assessments in the field, ensuring timely and accurate diagnosis of leprosy and other skin conditions.
• Organize and lead skin camps to provide medical care to underserved communities.
• Screen clients, validate leprosy cases, and ensure appropriate treatment plans, including the administration of Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT) as per WHO and Government of Nepal (GoN) protocols.

Clinical Supervision:

• Oversee the clinical activities of field health workers, ensuring they follow established medical standards.
• Provide technical guidance and supervision during skin camps and other field-based activities.

Client Management:

• Maintain comprehensive medical records for all clients, ensuring proper documentation of diagnoses, treatment plans, and follow-ups.
• Refer complex cases or those requiring advanced care to specialized hospitals, including Anandaban Hospital.
• Follow up on clients after treatment to monitor progress and ensure successful outcomes.

Training and Capacity Building:

• Train field health workers and local volunteers on leprosy detection, diagnosis, and treatment protocols.
• Regularly assess the skills of field staff and recommend additional training to enhance their competencies.

Liaison and Coordination:

• Collaborate with district health authorities, local government bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth program implementation.
• Participate in health sector meetings, reviews, and evaluations at the district level and contribute to strategy development.
• Build partnerships with local health institutions and community groups to promote awareness and access to leprosy services.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Conduct regular field visits to monitor program progress and ensure quality of care.
• Gather feedback from clients and communities, making recommendations for improving service delivery.
• Support project reporting by compiling accurate data from field activities, documenting successes and challenges.

Drug and Equipment Management:

• Ensure the availability and proper management of medical supplies, including MDT and other essential drugs.
• Monitor drug consumption and manage stock levels to prevent shortages.

Data and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed medical records using relevant data management systems (e.g., KOBO, REDCAP, HMIS).
• Provide regular reports on clinical activities, drug usage, and program outcomes to senior management.

Outreach:

• Spend considerable time (10-12 weeks annually) in field locations, conducting camps and providing direct patient care.
• Promote leprosy awareness in the community, working with local leaders and community health workers.
• Any other work as assigned by the reporting manager.