HJFMRI is Recruiting HTS Counsellors in Mbeya – 29 Positions
Join us in our mission to fortify and institutionalize monitoring and evaluation systems within the Southern Highlands Zone for more efficient and effective mobilization of resources to combat HIV and AIDS.
| Table of content | Position Information |
| Key Responsibility | Qualification |
| How to Apply | General Application Requirements |
Position Information
Job Title: HTS Counsellor (29 Positions)
Report to: CTC in-charge and HJFMRI Lead
Terms of Employment: One-year contract
Salary: TGHS B
Primary Role
Under the direct supervision of the CTC in-charge, the HTS Counsellor will primarily engage in conducting HIV testing services, linking clients to ART, and ensuring their retention in Care and Treatment at the respective facilities in supported districts. The incumbent will ensure that HIV and AIDS services are provided in accordance with protocol and HIV management guidelines for Tanzania. To fulfill these duties, the HTS Counsellor will be stationed at the facility designated by district authorities or partners. Responsibilities also include providing HTS Testing services, ART, and counseling services to clinic attendees while maintaining meticulous documentation of all client activities and services provided.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct HTS services at various facility points and within the community through Index Case Testing.
- Provide support to clinicians and Expert Clients at OPD as necessary for HIV testing services (HTS).
- Offer routine and extensive adherence counseling to clients before ART initiation and throughout the continuum of care.
- Implement assisted partner notification services for all index clients.
- Collaborate with facility staff to ensure the effective implementation of the Linkage case management model for all new identified clients.
- Provide post-test counseling for newly identified HIV-positive individuals, working closely with lay counselors (expert patients and HIV-positive CBHSPs).
- Supervise and coordinate lay counselors to ensure that all identified HIV-positive individuals are properly attached, followed up on, and enrolled into ART.
- Offer initial adherence counseling services to newly diagnosed positive clients before referral to care and treatment.
- Document all referrals, conduct follow-ups, and report on referral outcomes.
- Administer the HIV screening tool for PITC to all clients attending OPD and other entry points for HIV testing.
- Ensure that all identified HIV-positive clients are linked to care and initiated on ART on the same day (Same day ART initiation).
- Screen pediatric populations attending the facility for optimized PITC using a children-specific screening tool.
- Initiate optimized ART for all positive children and transition those on old regimens to TLD.
- Facilitate HIV disclosure and adherence among pediatric populations to improve retention and viral suppression.
- Participate in children Saturday clinics and teen clubs to enhance adherence and viral suppression.
- Collaborate with CTC in-charge to ensure the availability of pediatric job aids, posters, and working tools.
- Promote demand creation for HIV viral load sample collection and ensure proper documentation of sample collection.
- Screen clients for TB and initiate IPT for eligible clients daily, maintaining thorough documentation.
- Screen HIV-positive women for Cervical Cancer and initiate treatment for those found positive.
- Collaborate closely with the CTC in-charge to coordinate the provision of care and treatment services, RCH/PMTCT activities, early infant diagnosis (EID), and TB/HIV collaborative initiatives.
- Offer telephone support and appointment reminders to clients with cell phones.
- Provide counseling on HIV-status disclosure and partner/family testing, addressing barriers to care.
- Prepare and submit daily, weekly, monthly, and quarterly reports to the relevant authorities.
- Perform other duties as assigned by your supervisor.
Qualifications
- Diploma in Nursing from a recognized institution with registration with the relevant professional body in Tanzania.
- A minimum of 2 years’ experience in providing HIV/AIDS clinical care in Tanzania or prior experience in HIV/AIDS care and treatment.
- Proficiency in English and Kiswahili.
- Willingness to remain stationed at the working location full-time (100%).
Key Personal Competencies
- Self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to show initiative.
- Committed to the cause.
- A team player with strong interpersonal skills.
How to Apply
Please submit your applications to conf@mbeya.go.tz. All applications should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV), and copies of academic certificates. Ensure your full name and the position you are applying for are clearly indicated in the email subject.
Additionally, complete the application form at the following link for your application to be considered: Application Form
The application deadline is October 6th, 2023.
Candidates who qualify will be required to present their original certificates during interviews.
General Application Requirements
- “Testimonials,” “Provisional Results,” and “Statement of Results” will not be accepted.
- Applicants who are retired or have been terminated from the public service should refrain from applying.
- Applicants who have studied outside of Tanzania must provide confirmation of their qualifications from the authorized body.
- Legal actions will be pursued against applicants who submit forged or falsified information/documents.