Term of Reference for Development of National Guidelines for Assisted Vacuum Delivery Consultant

Background

The Rwanda Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (RSOG) is committed to promoting excellence in obstetric and gynecological health in Rwanda. In line with our mission, we seek to engage a consultant to support our efforts in developing national guidelines on assisted vacuum delivery.

To improve maternal and neonatal outcomes, there is a need to develop clear, evidence-based national guidelines on assisted vacuum delivery. These guidelines will support healthcare providers with standardized protocols, improve training, and enhance the safe use of vacuum extraction in clinical practice.

Objectives of the Assignment

The overall objective of the consultancy is to develop comprehensive, evidence-based, and context-appropriate national clinical guidelines for assisted vacuum delivery in Rwanda.

Scope of Work

The consultant will be expected to:

1. Conduct a situational analysis of current practices, policies, and capacity regarding vacuum-assisted delivery in Rwanda.
2. Review global and regional guidelines and literature on vacuum-assisted delivery (e.g., WHO, FIGO, SOGC).
3. Consult with national stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, Rwanda Biomedical Center, professional associations, and frontline health workers.

Develop draft guidelines that include:

• Indications and contraindications
• Pre-requisites for safe use
• Step-by-step clinical procedures
• Roles and responsibilities of healthcare workers
• Infection prevention and control
• Monitoring, follow-up, and referral protocols
• Training and supervision recommendations

Facilitate stakeholder validation workshops to review and refine the draft guidelines.

Finalize the guidelines incorporating feedback.

Develop an implementation and dissemination plan.

Deliverables

1. Inception report with work plan and methodology
2. Situational analysis report
3. Draft national guidelines on assisted vacuum delivery
4. Stakeholder consultation workshop
5. Validation and report
6. Final guidelines document (ready for publication)

Duration and Timeline

The assignment is expected to be conducted between May and September 2025. A detailed work plan will be finalized with the consultant during the inception phase.

Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will report to the Managing director of Rwanda society of obstetrician and gynecologists (RSOG) Maternal and Child Health Division of the Ministry of Health and will work in collaboration with RSOG Project manager.

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced degree in Obstetrics & Gynecology, Public Health, or a related field
• At least 5years of experience in maternal health program development or clinical guideline formulation
• Familiarity with Rwandan health systems and clinical settings preferred
• Excellent analytical, writing, and facilitation skills

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• Cover letter and CV
• Technical proposal outlining understanding of the assignment and approach
• Sample of similar work (if available)

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their applications, including a cover letter, a detailed CV, Technical proposal outlining understanding of the assignment and approach, and sample of similar work (if available) to info@rsog.org.rw not later than Tuesday 20^th May 2025 at 5pm.

Please include the subject line: Application for Development of National Guidelines for Assisted Vacuum Delivery Consultant Position at RSOG.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Note: Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.