Abstract
This thesis brings together papers with a common theme of the actual or potential use of Auxiliary Public Health Facilitators (APHF) in public health protection, using examples from high- and low-income countries, and in Scottish, UK, EU and global health contexts. While the papers arose from different research projects, they provide common and connected lessons which can be applied more generally.APHFs have a long history of use worldwide for public health protection, generally in low resource settings or where there is an urgent public health need, and sometimes also promoted by governments for greater public engagement. Previous research has focused on standardisation, professionalisation and protection of the public. This research is original in analysing the role from the APHF perspective, including the important legal, ethical and human rights implications. For example, the right to refuse to provide services to the public, duties to third parties, the level of personal risk they must accept, and whether there is legal indemnity if something goes wrong. Is it ethical to expect APHFs to protect the public, or is it exploitative, and what human rights laws and protections apply? The research also explores impact and sustainability, and key barriers and facilitators to the successful use of APHFs. APHFs can be a valuable resource, but high level governmental and public support is required. Following analysis using the critical reflection model, the thesis proposes a framework for the future use of APHFs in public health protection. This would include a publicly recognised title, legal clarity and protections, ethical guidance and active participation by the APHFs in their role development.
| Date of Award | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Ellie Hothersall-Davies (Supervisor), Jonathan Berg (Supervisor) & Mary Cameron (Supervisor) |
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