Graduate Research Degree Awarded - Alicia Quach

Congratulations to Alicia Quach - Doctor of Philosophy Awarded 15 September 2026

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Supervisors: Fiona Russell (primary), Steve Graham, Cattram Nguyen, Claire von Mollendorf

Advisory Committee: Sharon Goldfeld (chair), Barbara McPake,  Pete Azzopardi

Thesis Title: Equity for child health: an analysis of coverage, quality and costs of health care for children in low-and-middle-income countries (with Lao People’s Democratic Republic as a case study)

Thesis Summary:

Health equity is achieved when everybody is given a fair opportunity to attain their full health potential. Universal health coverage (UHC) contributes towards health equity by facilitating access to quality health services for all without financial hardship. This thesis investigated health equity patterns and quality of care in child health services, with a focus on Lao People's Democratic Republic. It found persistent inequities in coverage of essential child health services and financial burden of severe childhood illness and identified ways to strengthen hospital quality assessment tools.

Date awarded: 15 September 2026