Asia-Pacific

Unitaid manages a portfolio of 40 grants, valued at US$1 billion. During 2017, US$303 million in grants were approved focusing on malaria during pregnancy, emergency child artesunate treatment, HIV self-testing kits in Africa, and TB prevention for high-risk groups. Member of proposal review commitee for 4 years. 

A dynamic Tuberculosis simulation model was developed in collaboration with Imperial College London and the Public Health Foundation of India to assess the impact of selected interventions in reducing the TB burden and achieving global targets. The model's results were presented at the March 2017 meeting in Delhi, where Health Ministers from 11 countries signed a "Call for Action" to end TB in the region. The model provided insights into effective strategies for combating TB, supporting efforts to meet regional and global health goals

Tasks involved conducting discussions with key stakeholders, including the ADB resident mission, government agencies, and development partners. Relevant national health sector policies were identified and analyzed. A draft health country strategy report was produced, incorporating recommendations from stakeholders. Additionally, a dissemination workshop was organized to share findings and engage stakeholders in discussions on the report’s content and recommendations. The process facilitated collaboration and ensured that the insights and feedback from all relevant parties were considered in the final report and subsequent project decisions

Responsible for collecting data relevant to the evaluation criteria of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and impact. Prepared evaluation report for $100 million loan

The project involved cost-benefit analysis of national veterinary services plans, focusing on the livestock sector in Southeast Asia. Key tasks included providing contextual information on the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the sector. A literature review was conducted- summarizing existing economic studies related to veterinary services investment in Southeast Asia. The project also involved quantifying and assessing the economic value of strengthened veterinary services and improved animal health, highlighting the potential benefits of investing in veterinary infrastructure for the region's economic development and livestock productivity

The study reviewed and compiled existing data on the prevalence of counterfeit HIV, TB, and malaria medicines in the Mekong region and quantified their economic impact. It focused on estimating the financial value of counterfeit drug sales relative to the overall market for these infectious disease medicines, as well as the economic costs to households and national economies from using drugs with low efficacy. A model was developed to assess the economic consequences of counterfeit drug use in Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, including increased lost workdays, carer costs, and higher health expenditures

Key tasks included providing orientation for provincial health teams on financial analysis of provincial health systems and evaluating the fiscal situation in eight provinces, including their allocation mechanisms.

Additionally, basic provincial health accounts were prepared for each province, detailing sources and uses of funds. Projected cost analyses were conducted for a new package of services under various scenarios, including delivering the package as the only activity, offering OPB services alongside routine services, and implementing an integrated package.

The cost analysis covered major budget lines such as personnel, drugs and medical supplies, and capital expenditures. It also assessed the adequacy of the capitation fund and explored different provider payment mechanisms.

The project evaluation involved assessing progress using the results-based logical framework, impact pathways, and the IFAD Knowledge Management Strategy. It focused on identifying and evaluating the outcomes of the project, as well as recognizing enablers and constraints affecting the attainment of project results. Key lessons learned were extracted, and practical recommendations were made for corrective actions needed to achieve the envisioned project results within the remaining project period. The evaluation aimed to enhance project effectiveness and ensure that the project meets its objectives before completion

The evaluation identified outstanding issues that impacted project implementation and completion. It assessed the project’s relevance in relation to the Mid-term review of the National Health Plan and current health sector needs. The efficiency of consultants, resources, and the capacity of the executing and implementing agencies to deliver project outputs was evaluated. Best practices and lessons learned were identified. Based on the findings, recommendations were provided for necessary changes or re-scoping to improve project outcomes and ensure successful completion in alignment with health sector priorities

Evaluation involved collecting data relevant to the evaluation criteria of project relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, sustainability, and impact. Specific objectives included assessing the overall performance and impact of the Response Fund in controlling HIV/STIs in the Pacific and its contributions to regional complementary funds. The evaluation also focused on SPC’s role as the Principal Recipient (PR), responsible for fund administration, management, and delivery. Additionally, the effectiveness of capacity development and technical assistance under PRISP II was assessed, along with the financial sustainability of the project and its contributions to gender equality, human rights, and value for money

The project prepared an Independent Completion Report (ICR), evaluating whether RRRT successfully achieved its stated objectives in several areas, including: Violence Against Women, HIV & the Law, Universal Periodic Review, Regional Human Rights Mechanisms, Ratification & Reporting (Rome Statute, UN conventions), Disability Advocacy, Legislative Lobbying, and the Pacific Islands Human Rights Defenders Network. The ICR also outlined the current state of human rights assistance in the Pacific and provided recommendations for improved donor coordination. The evaluation aimed to assess RRRT's impact and offer strategic guidance for enhancing human rights initiatives in the region

Cost-benefit analysis of the SE Asia FMD program. The evaluation involved a combination of epidemiological and economic modelling. Study estimated how control strategies have impacted disease prevalence and livestock productivity parameters

A cost analysis of existing services was conducted across high, medium, and low insurance coverage scenarios. It included projections for a new service package delivered as a standalone offering, alongside routine services, or as an integrated package. Key budget estimates covered personnel, drugs, medical supplies, and capital expenditures. Additionally, calculations assessed the adequacy of the capitation fund and various provider payment mechanisms. This analysis provides essential insights for optimizing healthcare service delivery in relation to available resources and coverage levels.

Key tasks included conducting resource needs estimations based on the costing of a minimum package of effective interventions for HIV prevention aimed at adolescents and young people. A differential analysis estimated the required resources for interventions targeting "most-at-risk" adolescents (MARAs), especially vulnerable adolescents (EVAs), and the general population perceived as “low or no” risk of HIV. Specific packages were costed, including peer education and outreach, youth-friendly services (STI diagnosis, treatment, HIV testing, and counseling), drug-related harm reduction services, life skills-based education in schools, community outreach, information, education and communication (IEC) campaigns, mass media campaigns, and policy interventions. 

Panel assesses the strategic focus, technical soundness, and potential for impact of funding requests in accordance with the Global Fund strategy

Secondary data was collected to assess the overall achievements of the project, including conducting economic and financial analysis. The evaluation focused on key benefits such as improved health status in the project provinces, evidenced by increased service use in preventive medicine systems, enhanced health surveillance and disease control, upgraded provincial health systems, improved staff capacity, and effective project management. The project's financial sustainability was also assessed. Based on these findings, recommendations were provided for future project operations, and lessons learned were summarized to inform the planning and implementation of similar initiatives

The evaluation determined the impact and outcomes of the HIV program in Georgia, assessing the quality of services where data was available. Unit costs for prevention, treatment, care, support, and program management activities were estimated. The evaluation identified the most effective interventions being implemented to address the epidemic and achieve future impact. Additionally, it outlined expenditure implications for the next three years, considering potential re-programming scenarios. The findings provided insights about the program’s effectiveness, cost efficiency, and strategic direction for continued HIV response in Georgia

The project involved the preparation of an Independent Completion Report (ICR), which included directing team inputs and responsibilities, coordinating in-country mission logistics, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality reports. Ross managed the ICR team, effectively utilizing each team member's expertise to meet the Terms of Reference and contractual obligations. He took primary responsibility for evaluating key areas such as overall program design, program management, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), gender considerations, and other relevant aspects. The ICR aimed to assess the project’s performance, outcomes, and alignment with its intended objectives and impact

The evaluation project consulted a range of stakeholders, including provincial governments, health bureaus, staff using supported facilities, beneficiaries, local leaders, and partners. Field visits were conducted in six provinces with the largest investments, visiting both the largest and smallest supported facilities. Information was collected using a standard data collection instrument, covering civil works, equipment, training, financial management, and monitoring. A financial and economic evaluation of the project was conducted, including an analysis of pre-project and post-project conditions. Issues affecting project implementation, such as delays, were reviewed to determine causes, key factors, and to propose mitigation strategies

The project mapped current government processes and reviewed best practices in M&E and results-based management, sharing insights with relevant agencies. An M&E system was proposed, along with actions to improve the harmonization of monitoring procedures across agencies. Additionally, a series of meetings were organized and coordinated to facilitate capacity development and gather feedback from stakeholders. These efforts aimed to strengthen the monitoring and evaluation framework, enhance coordination, and ensure more effective implementation of results-based management practices across the government’s programs