|
Tenders are invited for Consultancy Service: Evaluating Self-Managed Abortion: Experiences of Pharmacies and Women in Pilot Interventions Bid closing date: Within 10 days from the day of announcement Bid opening date: No Specific Opening Date and Time Region: Addis Ababa Evaluating Self-Managed Abortion: Experiences of Pharmacies and Women in Pilot Interventions. 1. Background and rationale of the assignment Ipas Ethiopia builds resilient abortion and contraceptive-specific ecosystems using a comprehensive approach across sectors, institutions, and communities. Working closely with the Ministry of Health and other partners, Ipas has become a regional leader in establishing safe abortion services and creating reproductive health networks that connect women with care. Programs include training safe abortion providers and supporting health clinics with necessary supplies, supporting university students who serve as peer educators on sexual and reproductive health, and working to educate communities on how and where to access contraception and safe abortion. Since our founding in 2000, Ipas Ethiopia has improved reproductive health by expanding access to abortion and contraception and by centering our work on the needs and perspectives of individuals who seek these services. Self-Managed Abortion (SMA) through medication Abortion (MA) is gaining momentum as an option for women and girls seeking to terminate pregnancies, especially in settings where access to information and healthcare facilities is limited or the quality of care provided falls short of meeting the expectations and needs of women and young girls. Ipas Ethiopia has piloted SMA through private pharmacies as a harm reduction intervention by training pharmacists on the provision of information on medication abortion, counseling, assessment of eligibility for MA, gestational age estimation, and provision of referral support in 115 private pharmacies in Oromia and Amhara regions. While outcome data on SMA interventions has been collected from the pilot intervention implemented so far, it is crucial to further document the experiences of key stakeholders, specifically pharmacists providing the medication and women/ girls who have used MA for self-managed abortions. This assessment will capture the experiences, successes, challenges, and gaps of the pilot interventions, providing comprehensive insights to inform policy and programmatic decisions aimed at improving SMA access through private pharmacies. II. Objective of the Assignment The general objective of this study is to document the experiences of private pharmacies in SMA using medical abortion (MA) drugs for women and girls seeking self-managed abortions, with the aim of understanding the practices, challenges, and opportunities involved, as well as their role in expanding access to safe abortion care and supporting reproductive health rights. Specific Objectives: To document the experiences of private pharmacies in SMA using MA drugs for women and girls seeking self-managed abortions. To document the experiences of women and girls who self-managed their abortion using MA, capturing challenges and successes. To assess the successes and gaps in the provision of SMA, identifying barriers faced by both pharmacists and women/ girls. To generate evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, key actors, and program managers about the feasibility and importance of pharmacists in providing SMA and consideration of their inclusion within the national self-care manual and improve service delivery. III. Methodology and Scope of Work This study will use a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods: Review of abortion self-care guidelines of different countries and the current practices. In-depth interviews with pharmacists who provide MA to understand their experiences, challenges, and perspectives. In-depth interviews with women/girls who have used MA to self-manage abortion, focusing on their personal experiences, challenges, and satisfaction. Analysis of SMA data from pilot intervention pharmacies and comparison with data from public health facilities Surveys gather broader data (including the non-intervention pharmacies) on the practice and utilization of SMA, barriers, perceived effectiveness, and satisfaction with services. The analysis will focus on systematically examining the collected data to uncover meaningful insights into the experiences of pharmacists providing MA drugs and women/girls managing their own abortions. This will involve identifying and interpreting key themes, patterns, and narratives to highlight successes, address gaps, and pinpoint challenges in the provision of MA services. The analysis should emphasize generating actionable, evidence-based recommendations tailored to policymakers, program managers, and key stakeholders to support the inclusion of pharmacists within SMA efforts. IV. Key Deliverables A comprehensive report documenting findings, including key themes, experiences, successes, gaps, and challenges in the provision of SMA. To provide evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, health system stakeholders, and program managers on the provision of SMA by pharmacists, advocate for its integration into the national self-care manual, and expand access to SMA. Testimonials and real-life stories from women/young girls and pharmacists. A presentation of findings to relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, program managers, and pharmacists, with actionable recommendations. Duration of the Work The duration of the contract shall be a maximum of two working months between January 10-March 9, 2025. The consultant will strictly follow the work plan and the time schedule agreed with Ipas in undertaking the contract assignment. V. Required expertise and qualifications A post-graduate or equivalent qualification/ degree in Public Health, Epidemiology Development Study, Health economics social work, Sociology, communication, or any other relevant discipline. At least 10 years of prior work experience in conducting qualitative and quantitative research projects, especially in the area of health. Sound knowledge of the Ethiopian health system and SRH programs, particularly abortion and contraceptive-related programming and initiatives. Advanced knowledge and skills in quantitative and qualitative research methods with excellent writing skills. Proven interpersonal and communication skills including conducting interviews and FGDs. Previous experience in relevant areas of assignment, documenting lessons from pilot projects and Stories is a plus. VI. Payment Schedule 30% after approval, signing the contract, and adopting the inception report. 70% after the approval of the final report. VII. Submission of application The technical proposal should include a motivation letter, CV, and one most recent sample work, license, and TIN number. At least 10 years of prior work experience in conducting research and/or evaluation projects, field assessments, and special studies, especially in the area of health. Sound knowledge of the Ethiopian health system and SRH programs, particularly abortion and contraceptive-related programming and initiatives. Advanced knowledge and skills in quantitative and qualitative research methods with excellent writing skills. Proven interpersonal and communication skills including conducting interviews and FGDs Previous experience in relevant areas of assignment, documenting Impact/Success Stories and lessons learned is a plus. VII. Payment Schedule 30% after approval, signing the contract, and adopting the inception report. 70% after the approval of the final report. VIII. Submission of application The technical proposal should include a motivation letter, CV, and one most recent sample work The financial proposal should involve an estimated number of days for each activity, daily per diem, and accommodation rate. Other expenses (e.g. Travel-air ticket/rental) will be covered by Ipas Ethiopia. Note:- Female applicants are highly encouraged! Ipas management reserves the right to modify the contents of this position description at any time. Ipas is strongly committed to providing a work environment that is free from all forms of harassment, discrimination, and inequity. We recruit, employ, train, promote, and compensate our personnel without regard to race, age, sex, religion, national origin, color, creed, ancestry, citizenship, marital status, veteran status, military service, disability, genetic information, or any other personal characteristics protected by law or outlined by Ipas policy. Tender Link : https://tender.2merkato.com/tenders/6788cc7e374cbe7391677ba4
|
