Background and Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the rate and examine factors associated with the migration of patients from Iranshahr to other regions of Iran for hospital care during 2023–2024.
Methods: This cross-sectional study employed an indirect approach. First, patients registered in the SIB system were asked about the size of their close family network. If the patient or their first-degree relatives had traveled outside Iranshahr to receive medical services, they were interviewed. Ultimately, 159 individuals were included. Factors and challenges associated with patient migration were scored on a scale from 0 to 20.
Results: The proportion of individuals who migrated from Iranshahr for hospital services in the past year was 5.9% (95% CI: 5.0, 6.7), equivalent to 6,785 people. The leading factor for migration was the type of illness, with a score of 19.1 (95% CI: 18.5, 19.5). Most patients traveled for gastrointestinal, cancer, and cardiac diseases, with referrals mainly to Kerman and Yazd provinces. Satisfaction with services received, with a score of 17.1 (95% CI: 16, 17.5), was the main reason for repeat referrals. The principal challenges were transportation costs (score 16.6) and accommodation costs (score 16.3).
Conclusion: Poor quality, limited effectiveness, and lack of diagnostic infrastructure were the main drivers of patient migration. To promote access and social equity, strengthening the healthcare infrastructure in this region must be prioritized.
