Implementation of the IHR Joint External Evaluation: Taiwan's Experiences

Lo, Yi-Chun

The indicators and questions listed in the JEE tool were in the original English text, not translated. The language used in the conversation was English, too, with occasional assistance from local staff in translating to Mandarin Chinese when needed. Before the discussion, individual members were instructed that, because the experts would talk them through each indicator and question to ensure full understanding, it was unnecessary for the members to answer or draft a response to the JEE questions in advance. The discussion of each element generally took at least 30 minutes, mostly involving clarification about what each question really means and how responses should be drafted. For example, elaborative answers that demonstrated real examples were preferred, rather than just yes or no answers. The members could also describe an example that came to mind and ask the experts if it was eligible for a response. Although most of the time the experts' answers would be ''yes,'' the Q&A process not only provided reassurance to the members who were not native English speakers but also helped engage the members in ownership of JEE implementation. Overall, the pilot visit was successful and well received.