Current Vacancies at Palladium Group

Palladium is a global leader in the design, development and delivery of Positive Impact – the intentional creation of enduring social and economic value. We work with foundations, investors, governments, corporations, communities and civil society to formulate strategies and implement solutions that generate lasting social, environmental and financial benefits.

We invite applications for the position below:

Job Title: Lead Pediatric Medical Consultant

Subject RFP #: TO3 / TO4 / TO5 / 217727 / Consultancy / Fixed Price Contract-2020-0008
Locations: Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto
Terms of Reference / Specifications: Provision of Technical Assistance on Management for Severe Cases of Malaria, Pneumonia, and Medically Complicated Acute Malnutrition in Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto States (Severe Malaria, Respiratory Illness and Malnutrition in 31 Hospitals across three states: Bauchi (10), Kebbi (10), Sokoto (11))
Project: Integrated Health Program, Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto States’ Activities

Purpose

  • Nigeria needs reliable referral hospitals at the secondary level to handle complex and severe cases of pneumonia, malaria and malnutrition which cannot be handled at the primary healthcare level. IHP is therefore expanding its scope of high-impact curative child survival interventions that target major causes of child deaths to secondary health facilities to reach one secondary hospital per local government area to address severe pneumonia and malaria and malnutrition.
  • This will complement ongoing USAID-funded efforts on preventive measures at the PHCs such as promotion of breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices and Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI). The work will also complement and build on any oxygen support therapy equipment and nutrition commodities and clinical trainings offered by UNICEF.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise. No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality or on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is May 2021 to September 2021. As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Project

  • The USAID Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a five-year expanded effort by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) with the Government of Nigeria (GON) to identify and provide technical support for rapid scale-up of proven interventions through improvement of service delivery and strengthening of health systems.
  • The activity facilitates seven core intervention areas: health system strengthening (HSS), reproductive health/family planning, maternal, newborn, adolescent, and child health, and nutrition (RMNCAH +N). IHP supports the rapid scale-up of proven high impact interventions appropriate to each stage of life through improvements in the delivery of quality primary health care services, the strengthening of health systems, the reduction in supply side barriers to service access and optimizing each contact with a client. IHP works closely with state and local government in Bauchi, Kebbi, Sokoto, Ebonyi states and the FCT to support established health and development plans, build capacity and ensure ownership of interventions, systems, and results.
  • The project promotes integrated packages of services in the seven core intervention areas of HSS and RMNCH+NM, ensuring that priority is given to mainstream gender and social inclusion and foster sustainability and country ownership. Over the years, USAID has supported the Government of Nigeria to strengthen reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services through a range of projects in the country and using a variety of capacity building methodologies.
  • These projects contributed immensely to improving access to quality services through capacity building of various cadre of health workers at all levels to provide evidence based RMNCAH care. USAID projects in Nigeria have equally supported the development, review, and implementation of a range of national training guidelines and materials to strengthen health worker’s skills on RMNCH+NM.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as shown on the front page of this RFP.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed. Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation. Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission but reserves the right to adjust the timelines to suit program implementation plan. Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated. Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence in May 2021.

Clients:

  • State Ministries of Health (SMOH), State Malaria Elimination Program (SMEP), Hospital Management Board (HMB), National Malaria Elimination Program (NMEP) and Integrated Health Program (IHP).

Rationale:

  • Children in Nigeria continue to face steep odds of survival. It is estimated that one in every eight children under the age of five in Nigeria dies before his/her fifth birthday (NDHS 2018). Amongst the leading killers of children are pneumonia, malaria, and diarrhea. Severe acute malnutrition is also an important underlying contributor to many other child deaths and exacerbates morbidity and mortality from pneumonia, diarrhea, and measles.

Background

  • The USAID Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a five-year expanded effort by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) with the Government of Nigeria (GON) to identify and provide technical support for rapid scale-up of proven interventions through improvement of service delivery and strengthening of health systems. The activity facilitates seven core intervention areas: health system strengthening (HSS), reproductive health/family planning, maternal, newborn, adolescent, and child health, and nutrition (RMNCAH +N). I
  • HP supports the rapid scale-up of proven high impact interventions appropriate to each stage of life through improvements in the delivery of quality primary health care services, the strengthening of health systems, the reduction in supply side barriers to service access and optimizing each contact with a client.
  • IHP works closely with state and local government in Bauchi, Kebbi, Sokoto, Ebonyi states and the FCT to support established health and development plans, build capacity and ensure ownership of interventions, systems, and results. The project promotes integrated packages of services in the seven core intervention areas of HSS and RMNCH+NM, ensuring that priority is given to mainstream gender and social inclusion and foster sustainability and country ownership. Over the years, USAID has supported the Government of Nigeria to strengthen reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services through a range of projects in the country and using a variety of capacity building methodologies.
  • These projects contributed immensely to improving access to quality services through capacity building of various cadre of health workers at all levels to provide evidence based RMNCAH care. USAID projects in Nigeria have equally supported the development, review, and implementation of a range of national training guidelines and materials to strengthen health worker’s skills on RMNCH+NM.

Roles and Responsibilities
In collaboration and consultation with IHP’s State Offices and targeted state governments, the Consultants will undertake the following activities:

Objective:

  • IHP seeks six pediatric medical consultants / advanced pediatric clinical training consultants to support the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and agencies to strengthen management for severe cases of pneumonia, malaria, and severe acute malnutrition (with medical complications) in secondary hospitals of Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto states.
  • IHP seeks a Lead Pediatric Medical Consultant to adapt training protocols and lead a team of 6 pediatric medical consultants across three states. The lead medical consultant will support the State Hospital Management Board, Ministry of Health (SMOH) and agencies to strengthen management for severe cases of pneumonia, malaria, and severe acute malnutrition (with medical complications) in secondary hospitals of Bauchi, Kebbi and Sokoto states.

Rapid needs assessment, curriculum design, preparation for the Training of Trainer (ToT) and training readiness – May and June 2021:

  • The Lead Pediatric Medical consultant will be responsible for leading the overall curriculum design effort in conjunction with the SMOH, the Hospital Management Board and IHP. This will include: a) curriculum review and adaptation of a training manual and job aides using existing (FMOH, WHO, UNICEF) resources; b) development of a remote/phone-based needs assessment among secondary facilities to identify training needs according to staff capacities, and available equipment/commodities in each facility; c) identification and organization of competency-based training exercises, pre/post-tests, mentoring checklists, organization of training schedules, and training of trainer workshop.
  • All training materials and needs assessments must be reviewed and endorsed by the State Ministry of Health, the Hospital Management Board and IHP.

Mentor, Monitor and lead coordination of 6 pediatric medical consultant trainers across three states – July through September 2021:

  • The lead pediatric medical consultant will also be responsible for providing quality oversight and coordinating all consultants named in this scope. This will be done in collaboration with IHP staff in the Abuja and the Headquarters office in Washington DC. The lead consultant will liaise with the Hospital Management Board and IHP in advance of the trainings to ensure the facilities are prepared to receive the training. The lead consultant will also provide follow-up mentoring and supervision of the secondary care in collaboration with the Hospital Management Board and staff.

Monitor a team of six consultants to carry out the following training requirements:

  • When equipment and supplies are available, trainers will provide training in using oxygen equipment and nutrition commodities. When these supplies/equipment are not available, simplified training must be provided to refresh healthcare workers to provide optimal care using available equipment (or prompt referral to tertiary care if needed/appropriate).

Estimated length of trainings at each general hospital:

  • Severe malnutrition (~ 6 days),
  • Severe Respiratory illness (with oxygen therapy support) (~3 days)
  • Severe malaria (~ 2 days)
  • ARBP PC01 GL01 TL02 Request for Proposal 7 / 12

Needs Assessment/Criteria for Hospital Inclusion:

  • Hospitals with the largest volume of cases and staff will be prioritized, along with hospitals that have oxygen equipment and nutrition commodities to treat severe malnutrition. In the event that another implementer has given similar trainings in a facility, another general hospital will be prioritized for refresher training.

Deliverables, Approximate Timeframe

  • Phase I: Clinical Material Design
  • Phase 2: Monitor, mentor and coordinate the work of 6 pediatric medical trainers

Eligibility Requirements / Required Technical Competencies
Qualifications and required experiences:

  • MBBS, MD or a similar degree. A post graduate medical degree in relevant area such as Pediatrics (preferred) or Internal Medicine will be an added advantage.
  • The candidate must possess at least 10-15 years professional experience in clinical practice/training and/or programs related to diagnosis and case management of medically complicated severe acute malnutrition, severe pneumonia, and severe malaria.
  • Must be registered with relevant bodies such as the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) and possess a valid practicing license.
  • Have experience working with Ministry of Health (at federal and state levels) and implementing partners.
  • Excellent knowledge of the Nigerian health facilities at the secondary level.
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering capacity building workshops particularly competency-based, medical training.
  • Experience carrying out similar assignments in Nigeria particularly at the sub-national levels.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office packages.
  • The lead pediatric consultant shall have demonstrated expertise designing/adapting training curriculum, needs assessments, and clinical/mentoring checklists.
  • Preferred: Trainers with certifications in oxygen therapy, severe pneumonia and respiratory illness, severe malnutrition are preferred.

Required personal competences:

  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Leadership, team building, coaching and mentoring capability
  • Ability to engage and manage strategic stakeholders including government, implementing partners, academia and private sector
  • Good communication skills (training, negotiation, moderation, representation, presentation and writing/documentation).

Due Diligence Requirements:

  • Palladium conducts a due diligence search as part of our partner vetting and selection process. Please see Attachment A for a sample of the due diligence form.
  • Any individual or Company must complete Due Diligence Questionnaire if selected for Award within 5 days (See Attachment A for the Due Diligence Questionnaire).

Restrictions for debarred or otherwise prohibited companies:

  • As a USAID funded project, IHP does not partner with any debarred individuals or companies. Therefore, candidates and companies will be subjected to the approved systems of search which Palladium uses for vetting and certifying that potential contractors are not debarred.

Availability of Specific Registrations or Licenses to perform the Service:

  • For Companies Application, contractors are required to submit their certificates of incorporation and any other industry certificates which enables them to operate in Nigeria and in the industry of this SOW.
  • The Company must have a DUNS number or obtain one within 5 days of being notified of selection (see Attachment C for instructions for obtaining DUNS number).

Evaluation and Award Process
This is a Best Value Procurement. Palladium uses “Best value” to select the most advantageous offer by evaluating and comparing factors in addition to cost or price. Decision is taken by the evaluation team by considering the cost and non-cost evaluation factors with the intent of awarding to the contractor that will give Palladium the greatest or best value for its money. The evaluation committee shall review the proposal received using the following weights:

Technical and Management Approach – 20:

  • Quality and benefits of the solution.
  • Quality of the performance metrics and measurement approach.
  • ARBP PC01 GL01 TL02 Request for Proposal 11 / 12
  • Risks associated with the solution.
  • Management approach and controls.
  • Demonstrates strong understanding of the work required
  • Demonstrates expertise in designing/adapting training curriculum, needs assessments, and clinical/mentoring checklists.
  • Proposed activities are responsive to the RFP and are well thought out, organized and feasible.
  • List of deliverables with due dates/timelines

Qualifications – 20:

  • Educational background with evidence of degrees
  • Professional qualifications (relevant to the consultancy) with certificates, licenses and other documentation
  • Technical competencies relevant to this consultancy

Past Performance – 10:

  • Evidence of quality of past work (letters of reference/recommendations, performance reviews)
  • Samples of work done (reports, publications)
  • Other evidence of quality of work and timeliness of work

Past Experience – 20:

  • Key relevant achievements and capabilities
  • Previous work experience (long and short term) relevant to this assignment
  • Number of years of demonstrated practical and progressive experience

Price – 30:

  • Financial proposal that includes cost per deliverable with total cost per deliverable broken down by: daily rate, travel, accommodation, per diem, material, communication (adherence to USAID cost principles – allowable, allocable and reasonable)

Total Possible – 100 Points:

  • Palladium reserves the right to award under this solicitation without further negotiations. The offerors are encouraged to offer their best terms and prices with the original submission.

Procurement Integrity and Ethics:

  • It is Palladium’s Policy that no gifts of any kind and of any value be exchanged between vendors/contractors and Palladium personnel. Discovery of the same will be grounds for disqualification of the vendor/contractor from participation in any Palladium’s procurements and may result in disciplinary actions against Palladium personnel involved in such discovered transactions.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates / consultants are expected to submit both Technical and Financial bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical bid” or “Financial bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the cover page.

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Job Title: Consultant for Documenting Models of Referral and Emergency Transport Systems

Subject RFP #: TO3 / TO4 / TO5 / TO6 / TO7 / 217727 / Consultancy / Fixed Price Contract-2020-0006
Locations: Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT
Terms of Reference / Specifications: Consultancy services for technical support in documenting Models of referral and emergency transport systems identified, lessons and recommendations for Bauchi (See SoW attached)
Project: Integrated Health Program, Bauchi, FCT, Kebbi, Ebonyi and Sokoto State Activities

Purpose

  • IHP works closely with state government in Bauchi, Kebbi, Sokoto, Ebonyi States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to support established health and development plans, build capacity and ensure ownership of interventions, systems and results.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise. No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality or on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 19 to April 27, 2021. As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Project

  • The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT State Office).
  • IHP aims to improve the enabling environment for equitable and sustainable health services, supplies, and delivery systems through policy development and implementation, with an emphasis on voluntary, rights-based health programs. IHP will help public health and policy leaders attach higher priority to their national and sub-national health needs, secure sustainable financing, advance health equity, and monitor policy implementation to ensure gains stay on track.
  • IHP aims to secure long-term enduring change by working with coalitions both inside and outside of health and showing common cause with neglected populations and other development actors. Central elements of IHP revolve around building in country capacity, institutionalizing achievements of past investments, and promoting country ownership of programs and initiatives.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as shown on the front page of this RFP.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed. Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation. Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission but reserves the right to adjust the timelines to suit program implementation plan. Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated. Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy is planned to commence on April 19, 2021.

Clients:

  • State Ministry of Health (SMOH), State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA) in Bauchi, Kebbi, FCT, Ebonyi and Sokoto States, Bauchi State Agency for the Control of Tuberculosis, Malaria and HIV/AIDS (BACATMA), Hospital Management Board (HMB), Local Government Health Authority (LGHA) and Integrated Health Program (IHP).

Rationale
An effective referral system ensures a close relationship between all levels of the health system and helps to ensure people receive the best possible care closest to home. It also assists in making cost-effective use of hospitals and primary health care services. A good referral system can help to ensure:

  • Clients receive optimal care at the appropriate level and not unnecessarily costly
  • Hospital facilities are used optimally and cost-effectively
  • Clients who most need specialist services can access them in a timely way
  • Primary health services are well utilized.

A number of previous donor funded programs have tried to address the challenges by piloting Emergency Transport Schemes (ETS) to ensure that women and Children had access to dependable free transportation to health facilities in times of emergency. However, in each case when these programs ended, emergency transport schemes declined rapidly and mostly became completely dormant. The strong focus is on creating a more sustainable approach that was firmly embedded in existing social and community structures.

In view of the foregoing, IHP is soliciting the services of one experienced Consultant who will provide technical support to FCT, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Sokoto States in documenting Models of referral and emergency transport systems identifiable in the States, lessons and recommendations.

Background

  • In fiscal year 2020/2021, IHP in FCT, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Sokoto States will provide technical assistance to PHC teams, LGHAs, and secondary hospitals to improve functionality of referral systems through the Consultant.
  • IHP will use quality improvement processes to analyze the referral system, test solutions to remove barriers. IHP will work to strengthen and expand existing emergency transport schemes through capacity building.
  • Emergency transport would address transport for all emergency danger signs, particularly during pregnancy, intrapartum, the post-natal/newborn period and for child survival emergencies including severe and life-threatening cases of pneumonia, fever, diarrhea and malnutrition.

Roles and Responsibilities
In collaboration and consultation with IHP’s field and HQ experts, undertake the following activities:

Objective:

  • The consultant will serve as a lead in providing technical assistance to the SMOH and its agencies to explore models to strengthen and expand existing emergency transport schemes and document the lessons learnt and recommendations.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Review existing emergency transport services in the States.
  • Conduct a desk review of existing relevant policies, guidelines, programs and referral services in the States
  • Conduct a 2-day technical consultation in collaboration with relevant MDAs on referral and emergency transport scheme in FCT, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Sokoto States to learn what models exist that are working and to make recommendations to review the referral and emergency transport guidelines.
  • Document the identified models of emergency transport scheme, lessons and recommendations for sustainable ETS.
  • Develop a model ETS for scale up that aligns with existing systems and National programs and recommendation
  • Write and submit the technical report of all processes to IHP
  • The scope of this consultancy will be establishing referral with special emphasis on establishing a functional Emergency Transport Scheme (ETS). The specific tasks are tabulated below:

Among other things, the consultant will deliver the following:

  • Documented findings on existing referral documents and emergency transport services in use in FCT, Bauchi, Ebonyi, Kebbi, Sokoto States
  • Document the identified models of emergency transport scheme, lessons and recommendations for a sustainable ETS scale up in the States
  • Model ETS design for scale up in the States

Eligibility Requirements

  • Minimum of 5 years’ experience in development and or review of health care service provider’s programs, policies and guidelines.
  • A good understanding of the Nigerian Primary Health Care system
  • Demonstrated experience in facilitating community participatory development processes.
  • Experience in working with low literacy communities especially in low resource settings
  • Fluency in English and the local language (spoken and written);
  • Ability to produce high quality work under tight timeframes.
  • Ability to establish a good working relationship with State stakeholders and integrate feedback as required.
  • Excellent skills in documentation and reporting
  • Experience carrying out similar assignments in Nigeria particularly at the sub-national levels.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office packages.

Required Technical Competencies:

  • Familiar with results-based management.
  • Knowledgeable of change theories and health system approaches
  • Proven success in capacity building through coaching and mentoring.
  • Strong and proven English writing skills with experience writing government policy documents, guidelines, etc.)
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to engage and manage strategic stakeholders including government, implementing partners, academia and private sector
  • Excellent communication skills (negotiation, moderation, representation, presentation and writing/documentation).

Required Skills:

  • Analytical skills
  • Leadership and coaching skills
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • Good communication skills (negotiation, moderation, representation, presentation of results)
  • Strong oral and writing skills in English.

Due Diligence Requirements:

  • Palladium conducts a due diligence search as part of our partner vetting and selection process. Please see Attachment A for a sample of the due diligence form.
  • Any individual or Company must complete Due Diligence Questionnaire if selected for Award within 5 days (See Attachment A for the Due Diligence Questionnaire).

Restrictions for debarred or otherwise prohibited companies:

  • As a USAID funded project, IHP does not partner with any debarred individuals or companies. Therefore, candidates and companies will be subjected to the approved systems of search which Palladium uses for vetting and certifying that potential contractors are not debarred.

Availability of Specific Registrations or Licenses to perform the Service:

  • For Companies Application, contractors are required to submit their certificates of incorporation and any other industry certificates which enables them to operate in Nigeria and in the industry of this SOW.
  • The Company must have a DUNS number or obtain one within 5 days of being notified of selection (see Attachment C for instructions for obtaining DUNS number).

Evaluation and Award Process
This is a Best Value Procurement. Palladium uses “Best value” to select the most advantageous offer by evaluating and comparing factors in addition to cost or price. Decision is taken by the evaluation team by considering the cost and non-cost evaluation factors with the intent of awarding to the contractor that will give Palladium the greatest or best value for its money. The evaluation committee shall review the proposal received using the following weights:

Technical and Management Approach – 20:

  • Quality and benefits of the solution.
  • Quality of the performance metrics and measurement approach.
  • Risks associated with the solution.
  • Management approach and controls.
  • Management team (Quality and experience of key personnel).
  • Demonstrates strong understanding of the work required
  • Demonstrates knowledge of the global and Nigeria best practices in Universal Health Coverage, operationalizing insurance schemes, risk pooling, enrolment and payment processes.
  • Proposed activities are responsive to the RFP and are well thought out, organized and feasible.
  • List of deliverables with due dates/timelines.

Qualifications – 20:

  • Educational background with evidence of degrees
  • Professional qualifications (relevant to the consultancy) with certificates, licenses and other documentation
  • Technical competencies relevant to this consultancy.

Past performance – 10:

  • Evidence of quality of past work (letters of reference/recommendations, performance reviews)
  • Samples of work done (reports, publications)
  • Other evidence of quality of work and timeliness of work.

Past Experience – 20:

  • Key relevant achievements and capabilities
  • Previous work experience (long and short term) relevant to this assignment
  • Number of years of demonstrated practical and progressive experience
  • Past experience working or providing technical support and capacity building/mentoring to the government or non-governmental organizations.

Price – 30:

  • Financial proposal that includes cost per deliverable with total cost per deliverable broken down by: daily rate, travel, accommodation, per diem, material, communication (adherence to USAID cost principles – allowable, allocable and reasonable).

Total Possible – 100 Points:

  • Palladium reserves the right to award under this solicitation without further negotiations. The offerors are encouraged to offer their best terms and prices with the original submission.

Procurement Integrity and Ethics:

  • It is Palladium’s Policy that no gifts of any kind and of any value be exchanged between vendors/contractors and Palladium personnel. Discovery of the same will be grounds for disqualification of the vendor/contractor from participation in any Palladium’s procurements and may result in disciplinary actions against Palladium personnel involved in such discovered transactions.

Deadline: 11.59pm (WAT); 9th April, 2021.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates / consultants are expected to submit both Technical and Financial bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical bid” or “Financial bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the cover page.

Click Here for More Information

Job Title: Consultant to Provide Technical Support to the Bauchi State Healthcare Contributory Management Agency (BASCHMA) to Ensure Effective Implementation of the State Health Insurance Scheme and Access to Quality Health Services for the Beneficiaries

Subject RFP #: TO3 1.2.9 RFP_Health Insurance Expert Consultancy
Location: Bauchi

Purpose

  • Palladium invites applications from suitably qualified individual consultants to provide technical and capacity building support to the Bauchi State Contributory Health Management Agency (BASCHMA) in operationalizing its Scheme.
  • In this Request for Proposal, Palladium expects offerors to develop a custom solution and proposal to Palladium for consideration. Bidders are required to provide justification for the work proposed or methodology to be adopted. This will be a Best Value procurement.

Project

  • The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT).
  • IHP is working with state governments to strengthen and advance operationalization of State Health Insurance Schemes toward attainment of universal health coverage.
  • IHP aims to improve the enabling environment for equitable and sustainable health services, supplies, and delivery systems through policy development and implementation, with an emphasis on voluntary, rights-based health programs.
  • IHP will help public health and policy leaders attach higher priority to their national and sub-national health needs, secure sustainable financing, advance health equity, and monitor policy implementation to ensure gains stay on track.
  • IHP aims to secure long-term enduring change by working with coalitions both inside and outside of health and showing common cause with neglected populations and other development actors.
  • Central elements of IHP revolve around building in country capacity, institutionalizing achievements of past investments, and promoting country ownership of programs and initiatives.
  • The decentralization of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and consequent establishment of State Health Insurance/Contributory Schemes (SHIS) across the country is one of the key policy thrusts of the Government of Nigeria aimed at reforming the health financing landscape for a stronger health system and improved health outcomes. To this effect, IHP is supporting focal states to put in place necessary design elements and operational structures for the effective roll-out and implementation of the various state contributory health schemes (SCHS).

The Bauchi State Contributory Health Agency (BASCHMA)

  • The Bauchi State Contributory Health Agency (BASCHMA) was aet up in 2017 to implement the Bauchi Contributory Health Scheme (BACHES) which is expected to achieve Bauchi state’s residents’ financial access to quality health care services.
  • At present, BASCHMA, with the support of the USAID-IHP project, has designed the technical elements and operational processes required to operationalize the Scheme. These include a costed benefit package, operational guidelines on health insurance processes such as enrolment, TPA engagement, claims management and quality assurance.
  • BASCHMA has formally agreed with labour unions and associations to commence formal sector deductions from January 2021 and wishes to conduct enrolment of the formal sector in the first quarter of 2021 and commence service provision no later than 1 April, 2021.
  • In support of this objective, USAID-IHP now wishes to continue to support BASCHMA in implementing the designed technical guidelines and standard operating procedures and build the staff’s capacity to manage health insurance operations.
  • In addition, as BASCHMA commences formal sector coverage, USAID-IHP will provide technical support to expand coverage to the informal sector and enhance the Scheme’s ability to collect, analyse and use encounter and claim data to enable strategic decision making.
  • USAID-IHP is seeking a qualified consultant to be embedded within BASCHMA to provide guidance on the implementation of health insurance technical operations and to build the team’s capacity to progressively take on these activities.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise.
  • No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality and delivered on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 20, 2021 to July 20,2021.
  • As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as appears on the cover page.
  • Applications received will have a validity period of six months.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed.
  • Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation.
  • Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission. Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated.
  • Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence on April 1, 2021

Scope of Work and Standards
Background:

  • The implementation of the State Health Insurance Scheme in states is an essential mechanism for ensuring improvement in attaining Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in the country.
  • These schemes will ensure a stable, predictable, and sustainable source of funding for health.
  • Additionally, the successful implementation of the schemes will ensure universal access to quality, equitable care especially to reproductive health/family planning, maternal health, newborn health, child health, nutrition, and malaria services.
  • There is a need to build technical capacity to implement and manage these schemes at the state level, and therefore it is essential to strengthen operational and technical capacity of BASCHMA to implement efficient and effective health insurance operations that will ensure coverage and protection to a large proportion or the populace.

Roles and Responsibilities:

  • The consultant will provide technical support for streamlining the Bauchi Health Contributory Scheme’s operations and ensuring necessary structures and processes are in place to guarantee delivery of services to enrolees, facilitate expansion to the informal sector, improve quality processes and build capacity of BASCHMA staff to manage the scheme.
  • The consultant is required to be embedded with the BASCHMA team in their state office(s) for the period of the consultancy.

Services Description:
The major products and outcomes of this assignment are:

  • Review and, where applicable, update Guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures and Tools that are needed for BASCHMA’s operations
  • Support BASCHMA with the set-up of efficient enrolment processes for both formal and informal sector and develop an up to date enrolment database which aggregates, analyses and reports enrolment data from various enrolment points
  • Provide technical assistance to BASCHMA to identify/develop informal sector aggregators/platforms/ structures that can be leveraged for health insurance enrolment and develop an informal sector action plan to achieve target informal sector coverage
  • Support the institution of a claims review, adjudication, and payment process for BASCHMA
  • Build the BASCHMA’s staff capacity on managing health insurance operations through a mix of on the job training, mentorship, and engagement in implementation of technical and operational documents. Support with troubleshooting and resolving issues encountered in implementing health insurance operations
  • Provide support to the Executive Secretary, BASCHMA in facilitating the execution of BASCHMA’s 2021 Annual Operating Plan and driving a culture accountability and performance within the Agency

The Consultancy will run for a period of three (3) months and the consultant is required to be embedded within BASCHMA for the period of this consultancy

Deliverables
The major products and outcomes of this assignment are:

  • A web-based enrolment database, with functionality for analysis and dashboard reporting developed and active.
  • At least one cycle of claims review conducted with defined triggers for querying claims, investigation of queried claims and analysis of impact of claims reimbursement trends on utilization and pricing of services
  • Informal sector enrolment plan with clear assigned tasks, targeted groups/individuals, and timelines developed and costed
  • Staff Capacity Assessment Report, Capacity Building Plan and Agenda, attendance lists, and training materials used for at least 5 capacity building in-house events
  • At least 20% of BASCHMA’s Annual operational Plan implemented during the period of the consultancy
  • The Consultancy will run for a period of three (3) months and the consultant is required to build BASCHMA’s capacity to progressively take on the activities within this scope of work

Eligibility Requirements
The consultant must possess the following core competencies:

  • A good First Degree or its equivalent from a reputable University in Medicine, Sciences, or Numerate disciplines such as Actuarial Science, Statistics, Insurance, etc.
  • Post graduate qualification in Management, Public Health, Health Management, Health Economics, Insurance, or other related fields
  • Certification in and/or professional membership of Health, Management and Health Insurance related bodies shall be an added advantage
  • Minimum of 7 years’ experience implementing health insurance in Nigeria or related settings.
  • Expertise in claims management and reimbursement best practices
  • Experience in developing and delivering capacity building workshops; including on health insurance implementation
  • Experience in contributing to the development of health insurance strategic plans and managing teams to implement health insurance strategic plans
  • Good understanding of current health financing reform initiatives in Nigeria especially the subnational level
  • Experience carrying out similar assignments in Nigeria particularly at the sub-national level.

Required Technical Competencies:

  • Good interpersonal skills with emphasis on communication, multi-stakeholder coordination, respect and negotiation
  • Good leadership skills
  • Proficient in the use and application of computer and mobile technology, database tools and Microsoft packages (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet Explorer).

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates (Bidders) are expected to submit both Technical and Financial Bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical Bid” or “Financial Bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the Cover page.

Click Here for More Information

Job Title: Consultant to provide technical support to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF Program Implementation Unit (PIU) in developing a web-based platform for analyzing and reporting the results of the BHCPF PHC Quality Assessments

Subject RFP No: TO4/217727/Consultancy/Fixed Price Contract-2020- 0007
Location: Kebbi
Project: Integrated Health Program, Kebbi State Activities

Purpose

  • Palladium invites applications from suitably qualified individual consultants to provide technical support to the National Primary Healthcare Development  Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF PIU in developing a web-based platform for analyzing and reporting the results of its quarterly PHC quality assessments
  • In this Request for Proposal, Palladium expects offerors to develop a custom  solution and proposal to Palladium for consideration. Bidders are required to provide justification for the work proposed or methodology to be adopted. This will be a Best Value procurement.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that  deliverable. The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable  is  delivered adequately or otherwise. No price change is expected after  contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality and delivered on time.

Anticipated Contract Term
The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 26, 2021 to September 30,2021. As a firm fixed  price  consultancy  based  on  deliverables,  Palladium  will  only  pay  for  deliverables  that  have  met  the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Project
The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT). IHP is working with state governments to strengthen and advance operationalization of health finance reforms towards attainment of universal health coverage. IHP aims to improve the enabling environment for equitable and sustainable health services, supplies, and delivery systems through policy development and implementation, with an emphasis on voluntary, rights-based health programs). As part of this mandate, IHP is working at the national and state levels to strengthen the implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) was established under Section 11 of the National Health Act (NHAct), as a principal funding mechanism towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria. The fund is designed to provide additional funding to the health sector through three gateways: National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS); National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA); and Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT).

A key process for the BHCPF under the NPHCDA Gateway is tracking the quality improvement of facilities that will be receiving Decentralized Facility Funding (DFF) from the NPHCDA through the State Primary Healthcare Boards (SPHCBs). The quarterly quality assessments are done to evaluate the performance of the PHC facilities and to ensure the PHCs meet the goals of providing quality services to Nigerians.

The process involves the quarterly collection of data on PHC facilities using an ODK format/app on a smart phone. This is transmitted to the central server at the NPHCDA from where data can be processed for analysis. The NPHCDA in line with its mandate is supporting this process. To ensure timely analysis of the baseline data, the service of a firm/consultant competent in data management is being sought; to convert the revised quality assessment tool into ODK format and develop a mobile platform that will analyze submitted quality assessment data and produce facility scorecards in real time.

Timeline:

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as appears on the cover page.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed. Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation. Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission. Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated. Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence on April 26, 2021

Scope of Work and Standards

Background
The USAID – Integrated Health Program (IHP) wishes to hire a firm/consultant to support the NPHCDA through the BHCPF PIU on a short-term basis to convert the revised quality assessment checklist into ODK format/app and develop a mobile platform that will analyze submitted quality assessment data and produce facility scorecards in real time.

Services Description
Under the supervision of the NPHCDA (BHCPF PIU) and with reporting responsibility to USAID-IHP, the consultant will perform the following tasks:

  • Support the finalization of the BHCPF/NPHCDA quality assessment checklist/tool in collaboration with the BHCPF PIU
  • Convert the finalized quality assessment checklist into the Open Data kit (ODK) format/App.
  • Develop a web-based/mobile platform to automate the process of analyzing data from quarterly quality assessment, to enable immediate feedback to PHCs post-assessment; and produce the following reports per state post analysis. o Facility scorecard:
    • The state & LGA summary report
    • Facility-by-facility details (across the service areas with facility pictures
    • A National summary for all states
  • Develop and configure an analytical dashboard of the trends in facility/LGA/state quality assessment results on DHIS2 (in collaboration with the Health Information System Programme (HISP), as necessary) to enable visibility and use of relevant data for decision making by all DHIS2 users.

Reporting:

  • The successful firm/consultant would report to the Director, Planning Research and Statistics through the BHCPF Program Lead. All deliverables must be approved by the BHCPF Program Lead prior to submission and review by IHP for payment.

Duration:

  • The assignment is to be concluded within 5 months. (Will be done in 3 phases of tool finalization, app development and test running, and development of DHIS2 custom report)

Intellectual property right:

  • The outcome of all analysis, platform or software or related enablers provided by the firm/consultant remains the Intellectual property right of the NPHCDA.

Eligibility Requirements
The firm/consultant shall demonstrate the following competencies and capacity:

  • Proficiency and capacity in data management and analysis including the use of relevant software.
  • Strong and demonstrable capabilities in application development
  • Proficiency in the use of DHIS2 and development of custom reports/dashboards
  • Experience in monitoring and evaluation and tools and templates development.
  • Basic understanding of PHC structure as relevant to data analysis.
  • Strong report writing skills.
  • Ability to be able to work under pressure and tight deadlines.
  • Ability to work across cross sectional teams and achieve results

Due Diligence Requirements:

  • Palladium conducts a due diligence search as part of our partner vetting and selection process. Please see Attachment A for a sample of the due diligence form.
  • Any individual or Company must complete Due Diligence Questionnaire if selected for Award within 5 days (See Attachment A for the Due Diligence Questionnaire)
  • Restrictions for debarred or otherwise prohibited companies.
  • As a USAID funded project, IHP does not partner with any debarred individuals or companies. Therefore, candidates and companies will be subjected to the approved systems of search which Palladium uses for vetting and certifying that potential contractors are not debarred.
  • Availability of Specific Registrations or Licenses to perform the Service.
  • For Companies Application, contractors are required to submit their certificates of incorporation and any other industry certificates which enables them to operate in Nigeria and in the industry of this SOW.
  • The Company must have a DUNS number or obtain one within 5 days of being notified of selection (see Attachment C for instructions for obtaining DUNS number)

Evaluation and Award Process
This is a Best Value Procurement. Palladium uses “Best value” to select the most advantageous offer by evaluating and comparing factors in addition to cost or price. Decision is taken by the evaluation team by considering the cost and non-cost evaluation factors with the intent of awarding to the contractor that will give Palladium the greatest or best value for its money. The evaluation committee shall review the proposal received using the following weights:

Technical and Management Approach – 20:

  • Quality and benefits of the solution.
  • Quality of the performance metrics and measurement approach.
  • Risks associated with the solution.
  • Management approach and controls.
  • Management team (Quality and experience of key personnel).
  • Demonstrates strong understanding of the work required
  • Demonstrates knowledge of the global and Nigeria best practices in Universal Health Coverage, operationalizing insurance schemes, risk pooling, enrolment and payment processes.
  • Proposed activities are responsive to the RFP and are well thought out, organized and feasible.
  • List of deliverables with due dates/timelines

Qualifications – 20:

  • Educational background with evidence of degrees
  • Professional qualifications (relevant to the consultancy) with certificates, licenses and other documentation
  • Technical competencies relevant to this consultancy

Past performance – 10:

  • Evidence of quality of past work (letters of reference/recommendations, performance reviews)
  • Samples of work done (reports, publications)
  • Other evidence of quality of work and timeliness of work

Past Experience – 20:

  • Key relevant achievements and capabilities
  • Previous work experience (long and short term) relevant to this assignment
  • Number of years of demonstrated practical and progressive experience
  • Past experience working or providing technical support and capacity building/mentoring to the government or non-governmental organizations

Price – 30:

  • Financial proposal that includes cost per deliverable with total cost per deliverable broken down by: daily rate, travel, accommodation, per diem, material, communication (adherence to USAID cost principles – allowable, allocable and reasonable)

Total Possible – 100 points:

  • Palladium reserves the right to award under this solicitation without further negotiations. The offerors are encouraged to offer their best terms and prices with the original submission.

Procurement Integrity And Ethics:

  • It is Palladium’s Policy that no gifts of any kind and of any value be exchanged between vendors/contractors and Palladium personnel.
  • Discovery of the same will be grounds for disqualification of the vendor/contractor from participation in any Palladium’s procurements and may result in disciplinary actions against Palladium personnel involved in such discovered transactions.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates / consultants are expected to submit both Technical and Financial bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical bid” or “Financial bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the cover page.

Click Here for More Information

Job Title: Consultant to Provide Technical Support to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF Program Implementation Unit (PIU) in Developing an Operation Manual for the NPHCDA Gateway for the BHCPF

Subject RFP #: TO3 1.2.15 RFP_NPHCDA BHCPF Consultancy
Location: Bauchi
Project: Integrated Health Program, Bauchi State Activities

Purpose

  • Palladium invites applications from suitably qualified individual consultants to provide technical support to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF PIU in developing a detailed Operations Manual for the BHCPF NPHCDA Gateway
  • In this Request for Proposal, Palladium expects offerors to develop a custom solution and proposal to Palladium for consideration. Bidders are required to provide justification for the work proposed or methodology to be adopted. This will be a Best Value procurement.

Project:

  • The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT).
  • IHP is working with state governments to strengthen and advance operationalization of health finance reforms towards attainment of universal health coverage.
  • IHP aims to improve the enabling environment for equitable and sustainable health services, supplies, and delivery systems through policy development and implementation, with an emphasis on voluntary, rights-based health programs).
  • As part of this mandate, IHP is working at the national and state levels to strengthen the implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

The BHCPF

  • The BHCPF was established under Section 11 of the National Health Act (NHAct), as a catalytic funding mechanism towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria.
  • The fund is designed to provide additional funding to the health sector through three gateways: National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS); National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA); and Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT).

The NPHCDA

  • The NPHCDA is responsible for implementing the NPHCDA Gateway through the SPHCBs. Within the NPHCDA, a BHCPF Programme Implementing Unit is responsible for coordinating of the implementation of the Gateway and wants to develop a Gateway Implementers’ Handbook for the NPHCDA Gateway.
  • The operations manual will lay out in detail all processes of the NPHCDA Gateway and highlight the roles and responsibilities of every stakeholders involved in the implementation or supporting the Gateway.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise.
  • No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality and delivered on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 20, 2021 to June 20,2021. As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as appears on the cover page. Applications received will have a validity period of six months.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed.
  • Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation.
  • Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission.
  • Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated.
  • Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence on April 1, 2021

Scope of Work and Standards
Background:

  • The USAID – Integrated Health Program (IHP) wishes to hire a firm/consultant to support the NPHCDA through the BHCPF PIU on a short-term basis to articulate a NPHCDA Gateway Implementers Manual that lays out in detail the processes of the NPHCDA Gateway, in a manner that facilitates uniform implementation of the Gateway’s principles, policies and protocols by states and their partners across Nigeria.

Services Description:

  • Under the supervision of the NPHCDA (BHCPF PIU) and with reporting responsibility to USAID-IHP, the consultant will perform the following tasks:
  • Identify, collate, and review all relevant documents, templates and tools relating to the NPHCDA-gateway implementation including the 2020 Revised BHCPF Guidelines, the NPHCDA Gateway’s Health Workers’ handbook etc.
  • Review all document, tools and templates collated above to identify key processes and sub-processes, process owners and process operators under the NPHCDA-gateway of the BHCPF
  • Develop the Implementers manual which outlines the procedures, responsibilities, timelines (where relevant) and input and output documents/tools to be used for end-to-end implementation of the NPHCDA-gateway (national to PHC level) under the guidance of BHCPF PIU.
  • Develop a summary flow chart for each key process using MS Visio or other suitable flowcharting software
  • Liaise with stakeholders within the NPHCDA, as required, to clarify procedural tasks and use of tools and templates
  • Should the need be determined by the NPHCDA, present the draft and final outputs of the manual to stakeholders at meetings convened by the BHCPF PIU and update with agreed changes
  • Format and prepare the manual (incorporating the flow chart) for final publication. The consultant shall ensure the manual reflects the 2020 Revised BHCPF Guidelines and Health Workers’ Handbook.
  • Provide support to NPHCDA Gateway Programme implementation during the timeframe of the consultancy, as required by the PIU lead.

Reporting:

  • The successful firm/consultant would report to the Director, Planning Research and Statistics through the BHCPF Program Lead.
  • All deliverables must be approved by the BHCPF Program Lead prior to submission and review by IHP for payment.

Duration:

  • The assignment is to be concluded within 2 months.
  • Intellectual property right:
  • The finalized document provided by the firm/consultant and the output of this engagement remains the Intellectual property right of the NPHCDA.

Eligibility Requirements
The firm / consultant shall demonstrate the following competencies and capacity:

  • Experience with developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), workflows and/or operational manuals. Experience with doing this in the health sector will be an added advantage
  • Strong critical thinking skills with ability to break complex and multi-stakeholder programs into smaller, discrete processes
  • Good understanding of the structure of the Nigerian primary health care system and the relevant stakeholders at all levels
  • Understanding of the BHCPF and NPHCDA Gateway operations and developing of SOPs would be advantageous.
  • Excellent written communication skills.
  • Ability to work without close supervision
  • Ability to deliver within tight deadlines.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates (Bidders) are expected to submit both Technical and Financial Bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical Bid” or “Financial Bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the Cover page.

Click Here for More Information

Job Title: Consultant to Provide Technical Support to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF Program Implementation Unit (PIU) in Developing an Operation Manual for the NPHCDA Gateway for the BHCPF

Subject RFP #: TO3 1.2.15 RFP_NPHCDA BHCPF Consultancy
Location: Bauchi
Project: Integrated Health Program, Bauchi State Activities

Purpose

  • Palladium invites applications from suitably qualified individual consultants to provide technical support to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) BHCPF PIU in developing a detailed Operations Manual for the BHCPF NPHCDA Gateway
  • In this Request for Proposal, Palladium expects offerors to develop a custom solution and proposal to Palladium for consideration. Bidders are required to provide justification for the work proposed or methodology to be adopted. This will be a Best Value procurement.

Project:

  • The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and FCT).
  • IHP is working with state governments to strengthen and advance operationalization of health finance reforms towards attainment of universal health coverage.
  • IHP aims to improve the enabling environment for equitable and sustainable health services, supplies, and delivery systems through policy development and implementation, with an emphasis on voluntary, rights-based health programs).
  • As part of this mandate, IHP is working at the national and state levels to strengthen the implementation of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

The BHCPF

  • The BHCPF was established under Section 11 of the National Health Act (NHAct), as a catalytic funding mechanism towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria.
  • The fund is designed to provide additional funding to the health sector through three gateways: National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS); National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA); and Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT).

The NPHCDA

  • The NPHCDA is responsible for implementing the NPHCDA Gateway through the SPHCBs. Within the NPHCDA, a BHCPF Programme Implementing Unit is responsible for coordinating of the implementation of the Gateway and wants to develop a Gateway Implementers’ Handbook for the NPHCDA Gateway.
  • The operations manual will lay out in detail all processes of the NPHCDA Gateway and highlight the roles and responsibilities of every stakeholders involved in the implementation or supporting the Gateway.

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise.
  • No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality and delivered on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 20, 2021 to June 20,2021. As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as appears on the cover page. Applications received will have a validity period of six months.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed.
  • Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation.
  • Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission.
  • Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated.
  • Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence on April 1, 2021

Scope of Work and Standards
Background:

  • The USAID – Integrated Health Program (IHP) wishes to hire a firm/consultant to support the NPHCDA through the BHCPF PIU on a short-term basis to articulate a NPHCDA Gateway Implementers Manual that lays out in detail the processes of the NPHCDA Gateway, in a manner that facilitates uniform implementation of the Gateway’s principles, policies and protocols by states and their partners across Nigeria.

Services Description:

  • Under the supervision of the NPHCDA (BHCPF PIU) and with reporting responsibility to USAID-IHP, the consultant will perform the following tasks:
  • Identify, collate, and review all relevant documents, templates and tools relating to the NPHCDA-gateway implementation including the 2020 Revised BHCPF Guidelines, the NPHCDA Gateway’s Health Workers’ handbook etc.
  • Review all document, tools and templates collated above to identify key processes and sub-processes, process owners and process operators under the NPHCDA-gateway of the BHCPF
  • Develop the Implementers manual which outlines the procedures, responsibilities, timelines (where relevant) and input and output documents/tools to be used for end-to-end implementation of the NPHCDA-gateway (national to PHC level) under the guidance of BHCPF PIU.
  • Develop a summary flow chart for each key process using MS Visio or other suitable flowcharting software
  • Liaise with stakeholders within the NPHCDA, as required, to clarify procedural tasks and use of tools and templates
  • Should the need be determined by the NPHCDA, present the draft and final outputs of the manual to stakeholders at meetings convened by the BHCPF PIU and update with agreed changes
  • Format and prepare the manual (incorporating the flow chart) for final publication. The consultant shall ensure the manual reflects the 2020 Revised BHCPF Guidelines and Health Workers’ Handbook.
  • Provide support to NPHCDA Gateway Programme implementation during the timeframe of the consultancy, as required by the PIU lead.

Reporting:

  • The successful firm/consultant would report to the Director, Planning Research and Statistics through the BHCPF Program Lead.
  • All deliverables must be approved by the BHCPF Program Lead prior to submission and review by IHP for payment.

Duration:

  • The assignment is to be concluded within 2 months.
  • Intellectual property right:
  • The finalized document provided by the firm/consultant and the output of this engagement remains the Intellectual property right of the NPHCDA.

Eligibility Requirements
The firm / consultant shall demonstrate the following competencies and capacity:

  • Experience with developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), workflows and/or operational manuals. Experience with doing this in the health sector will be an added advantage
  • Strong critical thinking skills with ability to break complex and multi-stakeholder programs into smaller, discrete processes
  • Good understanding of the structure of the Nigerian primary health care system and the relevant stakeholders at all levels
  • Understanding of the BHCPF and NPHCDA Gateway operations and developing of SOPs would be advantageous.
  • Excellent written communication skills.
  • Ability to work without close supervision
  • Ability to deliver within tight deadlines.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates (Bidders) are expected to submit both Technical and Financial Bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical Bid” or “Financial Bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the Cover page.

Click Here for More Information

Job Title: Consultant to provide technical support to the two gateways of the Basic
Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) which includes the Ebonyi State
Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA) and Ebonyi State Primary Health Care
Development Agency (EBSPHCDA) and the State Steering Committee to
ensure effective implementation and utilization of funds. This support might
extend to other stakeholders as pertains to the operations of the BHCPF
(See SOW attached)

Subject RFP No: TO6/217727/Consultancy/Fixed Price Contract-2021-0002
Location: Kebbi
Project: Integrated Health Program, Ebonyi State Activities

Purpose

  • Palladium invites applications from suitably qualified individual consultants to provide technical and capacitybuilding support to both gateways of the BHCPF in Ebonyi; the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA) and Ebonyi state Primary Health Care Development Agency (EBSPHCDA); and the State Ministry of Health (SMoH) in ensuring proper utilization of funds and delivery of quality health services
  • In this Request for Proposal, Palladium expects offerors to develop a custom solution and proposal to Palladium for consideration. Bidders are required to provide justification for the work proposed or methodology to be adopted. This will be a Best Value procurement.
  • The consultant will provide technical and capacity building support to both gateways of the BHCPF in Ebonyi; the Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA) and Ebonyi state Primary Health Care Development Agency (EBSPHCDA); and the State Ministry of Health (SMoH) in ensuring proper utilization of funds and delivery of quality health services. The Consultant will be to provide technical assistance to the two gateways of the BHCPF, and the Ministry of Health at the state level i.e. Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), Ebonyi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EBSPHCDA) and Ebonyi State Ministry of Health (EBSMOH)

Type of Contract:

  • This is a firm fixed price deliverable-based contract. The consultant is expected to satisfactorily accomplish the deliverables before he/she gets paid for that deliverable.
  • The IHP Chief of Party reserves the right to confirm if a deliverable is delivered adequately or otherwise. No price change is expected after contract is signed. IHP will not pay for cost of any deliverable that is not complete, of quality and delivered on time.

Anticipated Contract Term:

  • The anticipated performance period for the consultancy is April 20, 2021 to July 20,2021. As a firm fixed price consultancy based on deliverables, Palladium will only pay for deliverables that have met the standards and expectations of the program and which is also delivered within assigned timelines.

Project

  • The Integrated Health Program (IHP) is a USAID-funded five-year project with a mandate to improve health systems, improve access to and increase quality of primary health care in designated states (Sokoto, Bauchi, Kebbi, Ebonyi and the FCT).
  • IHP will help public health and policy leaders attach higher priority to their national and sub-national health needs, secure sustainable financing, advance health equity, and monitor policy implementation to ensure gains stay on track. IHP aims to secure long-term enduring change by working with coalitions both inside and outside of health and showing common cause with neglected populations and other development actors. Central elements of IHP revolve around building in-country capacity, institutionalizing achievements of past investments, and promoting country ownership of programs and initiatives.
  • The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) is a key health financing reform established under the National Health Act of 2014 to provide a Basic Minimum Package of Health Services (BPMHS), effective delivery of Primary Health Care (PHC) services and Emergency Medical Treatment (EMT) for all Nigerians.
  • USAID-IHP is seeking a qualified consultant to work closely with the Executive Secretaries of both gateways, and the BHCPF focal person of the EBSMoH in Ebonyi state for a duration of three (3) months to provide guidance on the implementation of BHCPF technical operations and to build the team’s capacity to progressively take on these activities and regularly conduct joint review meetings and joint supervisory visits to facilities for the implementation of BHCPF in the state.
  • He / She will also work closely with and report to the Integrated Health Program Task Order 6 Health Financing Advisor and State Director for collaboration and ensure timely delivery of requirements.

Timeline

  • Applications are expected to be submitted on or before the due date as specified at the first page of this RFP.
  • Palladium will set up an evaluation committee who will meet to review all applications received within two weeks after the application period has closed. Top candidates may further be invited for an interview by the evaluation committee which will be conducted a week after the first evaluation. Depending on availability of the members of the evaluation committee and the exigences of the program, evaluation may be conducted at times which may be shorter or longer than stated here.
  • Palladium will most likely issue the contract to the successful contractor from this process within 30 to 60 days after submission. Palladium’s ability to issue such contracts may be contingent upon USAID approval and when donor approval is required, timelines for contract award may be longer than stated. Palladium hopes that the services to be rendered on this consultancy will commence on April 20, 2021

Background
In 2019, with the support of the USAID Health Policy Plus project, Ebonyi State officially qualified to receive the first and second tranche of funds subject to technical and operational preparedness. Following a minimum baseline assessment conducted by the Ebonyi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EBSPHCDA) with the support from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), selected PHCs were approved to receive the first tranche of funds and selected key facility staffs and Ward Development Committee heads were trained on BHCPF procedures.

Ebonyi state has since then enrolled over 70,000 residents into the scheme and selected PHCs have been providing services in line with the BHCPF guidelines.

USAID-IHP now plans to build on the efforts made by HP+ to support both gateways of the BHCPF to ensure the right documentation and due process which aligns with the BHCPF guidelines are followed in ensuring and monitoring the delivery of quality health services, efficient system for review and submission of claims, and timely reimbursement of funds to facilities for services rendered. In addition, USAID-IHP will provide technical support to both gateways to ensure efficient utilization of available funds in line with the BHCPF framework and make certain that all relevant documentations are available and stipulated procedures are followed to qualify for the next federal government disbursement.

USAID-IHP is seeking a qualified consultant to provide guidance on the implementation of BHCPF technical operations and to build the team’s capacity to progressively take on these activities and regularly conduct joint review meetings and joint supervisory visits to facilities for the implementation of BHCPF in the state.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • The specific responsibilities of the Consultant will be to provide technical assistance to the two gateways of the BHCPF, and the Ministry of Health at the state level i.e. Ebonyi State Health Insurance Agency (EBSHIA), Ebonyi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (EBSPHCDA) and Ebonyi State Ministry of Health (EBSMOH) accordingly as detailed below;

Services Description
The specific responsibilities of the Consultant will be to;

  • Provide technical assistance to the EBSPHCDA to cascade relevant operational guidelines, procedures and templates to the LGHA and PHC levels in the following areas:
    • Support EBSPHCDA to institutionalize a framework/process for ensuring the development, vetting and collation of PHC business plans that are aligned with the state’s service delivery priorities
    • Support EBSPHCDA to develop a framework/process for ensuring the development, collation and submission of retirement and expenditure reports within the timelines prescribed by the NPHCDA to ensure continuous receipt of funds
    • Support EBSPHCDA in implementing the quality assurance and improvement system designed by NPHCDA to improve the quality of services provided by the PHCs.
    • Support the SPHCDA in strengthening the LGHAs’ capacity to provide direct oversight and supportive supervision of BHCPF implementation at the PHC level
  • Provide technical assistance to support the implementation of BHCPF in the State through the EBSHIA gateway at the State and LGA level in the following areas;
    • Support EBSHIA, in collaboration with the NHIS, to accredit and empanel private facilities into the
    • BHCPF
    • Support EBSHIA to set up systems and processes at the community and/or facility levels to expedite the enrollment of targeted beneficiaries, in line with NHIs guidelines, in BHCPF
    • Build the EBSHIA’s staff capacity to review, verify and report on BHCPF claims submitted by facilities on a timely basis
    • Support EBSHIA to set up structures for timely prospective payments of capitation to PHCs and reimbursement of private and secondary health facilities
    • Support EBSHIA to develop and submit financial and operational reports to NHIS in line with the frequency and timing specified in the BHIS Gateway guidelines
  • Provide advisory support at State Steering/Oversight Committee meetings to function effectively and also use available data and information to make evidence-based strategic decisions to strengthen the implementation of BHCPF at the State level and LGA level.

The Consultancy will run for a period of three (3) months and the consultant is required to provide guidance on the implementation of BHCPF technical operations and to build the team’s capacity to progressively take on these activities and regularly conduct joint review meetings and joint supervisory visits to facilities for the implementation of BHCPF in the state.

Eligibility Requirements
The consultant must possess the following core competencies:

  • Master’s Degree or higher in Public Health, Policy and Governance, Health Economics, Development Studies or other relevant field required.
  • Must be an experienced professional in the field of health systems strengthening.
  • Must have a sound knowledge of National Health Act (NHACT) and Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and have capacity building and project management experience in public health programs
  • Proven experience working in Health Systems Strengthening in developing countries, preferably in Nigeria
  • Demonstrable capacity to network and negotiate with key stakeholders across different sectors in support of health.
  • Strong skills in design, implementation and monitoring of program components; e.g. health systems strengthening, supportive supervision, advocacy and coordination.
  • Excellent facilitation and mentoring skills’ supporting decentralized entities to translate policies into strategic plans for implementation
  • Demonstrated problem solving, analytic, and evaluative skills.
  • Attention to detail and ability to effectively and efficiently perform multiple tasks and balance competing priorities often within a required timeframe.
  • Experience with technical assistance for programs funded by USAID and / or other donor programs in developing countries is an added advantage

Required Technical Competencies:

  • Good interpersonal skills with emphasis on communication, multi-stakeholder coordination, respect and negotiation
  • Good Leadership skills
  • Proficient in the use and application of computer and mobile technology, Microsoft packages (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Internet Explorer)

Due Diligence Requirements

  • Palladium conducts a due diligence search as part of our partner vetting and selection process. Please see Attachment A for a sample of the due diligence form.
  • Any individual or Company must complete Due Diligence Questionnaire if selected for Award within 5 days (See Attachment A for the Due Diligence Questionnaire)
  • Restrictions for debarred or otherwise prohibited companies.
  • As a USAID funded project, IHP does not partner with any debarred individuals or companies. Therefore, candidates and companies will be subjected to the approved systems of search which Palladium uses for vetting and certifying that potential contractors are not debarred.
  • Availability of Specific Registrations or Licenses to perform the Service.
  • For Companies Application, contractors are required to submit their certificates of incorporation and any other industry certificates which enables them to operate in Nigeria and in the industry of this SOW.
  • The Company must have a DUNS number or obtain one within 5 days of being notified of selection (see Attachment C for instructions for obtaining DUNS number)

Evaluation and Award Process
This is a Best Value Procurement. Palladium uses “Best value” to select the most advantageous offer by evaluating and comparing factors in addition to cost or price. Decision is taken by the evaluation team by considering the cost and non-cost evaluation factors with the intent of awarding to the contractor that will give Palladium the greatest or best value for its money. The evaluation committee shall review the proposal received using the following weights:

Technical and Management Approach – 20:

  • Quality and benefits of the solution.
  • Quality of the performance metrics and measurement approach.
  • Risks associated with the solution.
  • Management approach and controls.
  • Management team (Quality and experience of key personnel).
  • Demonstrates strong understanding of the work required
  • Demonstrates knowledge of the global and Nigeria best practices in Universal Health Coverage,
  • operationalizing insurance schemes, risk pooling, enrolment and payment processes.
  • Proposed activities are responsive to the RFP and are well thought out, organized and feasible.
  • List of deliverables with due dates/timelines

Qualifications – 20:

  • Educational background with evidence of degrees
  • Professional qualifications (relevant to the consultancy) with certificates, licenses and other documentation
  • Technical competencies relevant to this consultancy

Past Performance – 10:

  • Evidence of quality of past work (letters of reference/recommendations, performance reviews)
  • Samples of work done (reports, publications)
  • Other evidence of quality of work and timeliness of work

Past Experience – 20:

  • Key relevant achievements and capabilities
  • Previous work experience (long and short term) relevant to this assignment
  • Number of years of demonstrated practical and progressive experience
  • Past experience working or providing technical support and capacity building/mentoring to the
  • government or non-governmental organizations

Price – 30:

  • Financial proposal that includes cost per deliverable with total cost per deliverable broken down by: daily rate, travel, accommodation, per diem, material, communication (adherence to USAID cost principles – allowable, allocable and reasonable)

Total Possible – 100 points:

  • Palladium reserves the right to award under this solicitation without further negotiations. The offerors are encouraged to offer their best terms and prices with the original submission.

Procurement Integrity and Ethics:

  • It is Palladium’s Policy that no gifts of any kind and of any value be exchanged between vendors/contractors and Palladium personnel. Discovery of the same will be grounds for disqualification of the vendor/contractor from participation in any Palladium’s procurements and may result in disciplinary actions against Palladium personnel involved in such discovered transactions.

Deadline: 6th April, 2021 at 11.59pm (WAT).

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates / consultants are expected to submit both Technical and Financial bids and in two separate emails to: consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com stating as part of the subject matter of the email whether “Technical bid” or “Financial bid” and also quoting the RFP number as it appears on the cover page.

The following items are required to be submitted as part of the proposal:

  • Technical Proposal & Management Approach including:
    • Personnel CV(s)
    • Past Experience Information/Capability Statement
    • Past Performance Information and Reference Information (Contact/Program Name etc)
    • Past Performance or Trade References; performance reviews
  • Financial Proposal detailing costs to be incurred with respect of the deliverables to be accomplished. Details of costs should be provided: daily rate/LOE, travel, accommodation, per diem, material, communication (adherence to USAID cost principles – allowable, allocable and reasonable and supported with evidence past rates). No lumpsum cost will be accepted.
  • Selected candidates will be required to sign certifications: Terrorism, Anti-Kick Back, Debarment, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.

Attachments

  • Please review the additional documentation and proposed contracts terms and conditions which should be given consideration when preparing your proposal. By submitting your bid, you will certify that you are in agreement with the contract terms and conditions as included in this solicitation and that all prices include all aspects of the required compliance with the terms and conditions of the proposed contract:
    • Attachment A: Due diligence form(s)
    • Attachment B: Sample Contract1
    • Attachment C: Guide for obtaining DUNs number
    • Attachment D: Business Partner Code of Conduct
  • Any contract/purchase order resulting from this solicitation must be signed by both parties in order to be considered valid and in force. All costs associated with, but not limited to, production, preparation and/or delivery of goods or services, including deliveries, accepted by Palladium staff, without a fully executed (signed by both parties) contract/purchase order, are at the vendor’s risk only. Palladium shall not pay for any costs, without limitation, associated with production, preparation or delivery of goods and/or services under this or any other contract/purchase order, which has not been signed by both parties.
  • If your proposal is successful, you will be required to enter into the Company’s standard contract for the types of goods or services being provided. In the provision of the Goods and Services, you will be required to comply with the Company’s policies, including (without limitation) its Business Partner Code of Conduct and any relevant client terms and conditions. Potential suppliers must also comply with the Company’s Business Partner Code of Conduct in the submission of any proposals pursuant to this RFP.
  • If you are bidding as part of a joint venture, partnership or similar, please make this clear in your submission. Likewise, if you propose to subcontract any part of the goods or services provision, then disclose this fact within your submission. The Company may require additional information from you and approval for subcontracting will not be automatic as subcontractors will be subject to Palladium’s Due Diligence process and may be required to submit for USAID Partner Vetting.

Important Information / Notice

  • For more details concerning this consultancy and other associated application tools, please visit the link below: http://bit.ly/3ravK6a
  • Please follow the instructions as contained in the Request for Proposal (RFP) and submit your application.
  • Applications received will have a validity period of six months.
  • Thank you for your interest in the above procurement. As implementer for the Project, Palladium invites you to submit a proposal for the terms of reference above. Your proposal must be valid for the Validity Period.
  • Please submit your proposal in accordance with the Details for Submission above by the Closing Date and Time. This RFP in no way obligates Palladium to award a contract nor does it commit Palladium to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of a proposal. Palladium bears no responsibility for data errors resulting from transmission or conversion processes.
  • We look forward to your response. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me by e-mail consultancy@ihp-nigeria.com Please reference the RFP number on the subject of the email.

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