Who appoints a PHO in writing?

• A. The SJA appoints a PHO in writing.
• B. The VIC appoints a PHO in writing.
• C. The SPCMCA appoints a PHO in writing.
• D. The ADC appoints a PHO in writing.

Answer: (C)

The key idea is who has the formal authority to appoint a Public Health Officer in writing within the command structure. The person charged with medical leadership at the command level—the senior medical authority, often titled the SPCMCA—has the responsibility to staff medical positions and issue official, written appointments. This ensures the PHO has recognized authority and a clear chain of command for public health matters, such as disease prevention, sanitation, and health policy within the unit.

The Staff Judge Advocate handles legal affairs and would not be the one to appoint a PHO. The VIC and an Aide-de-Camp serve different roles in the command—the former as a staff position not tied to medical staffing decisions, and the latter as a personal assistant to a senior officer—so they do not have the authority to appoint a PHO in writing.