A Compendium of One Health Terminologies

Area of Science:

• Interdisciplinary Health Sciences
• Global Health Security
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• The One Health (OH) approach has gained global traction, increasing related activities and specialized terminology.
• Ambiguous or broadly interpreted terms within the OH lexicon hinder systematic coordination and implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the semantics of eight fundamental One Health terminologies.
• To identify areas of consensus and ambiguity in the evolving OH lexicon.

Main Methods:

• Semantic analysis of eight core One Health terms: 'One Health', 'One Health Systems', 'One Health Framework', 'One Health Core Competency', 'One Health Education/Curriculum', 'One Health Professional/Workforce', 'One Health Study/Research', and 'One Health Governance/Legislation'.
• Review of current literature and international organization documents defining and utilizing these terms.

Main Results:

• Consensus exists on the definition of 'One Health' and the usage of 'One Health Framework'.
• 'One Health Systems' remain ambiguous despite frequent use.
• Disparities in 'One Health Core Competency' and 'One Health Education/Curriculum' models require harmonization.
• A global 'One Health Governance/Legislation' structure is emerging through international bodies.

Conclusions:

• Standardizing terminology is crucial for effective One Health coordination and collaboration.
• Harmonization of educational and competency frameworks is needed to build a cohesive One Health workforce.
• Ongoing development of global governance structures signifies progress in institutionalizing the One Health approach.