Taher Malaki, Dr Abasat Mirzaei, Sanaz Zeydabadi, Akbar Rasouli,
Volume 24, Issue 1 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background and purpose: One of the health system reform programs is the Family Physician and Referral System Program. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to review how family physicians and referral systems are financed in selected countries and Iran.
Methods: This study was conducted as a comparative review in 1403. Information was extracted using related keywords and their English equivalents based on specific subject headings (Mesh) in various databases. In addition, data from the World Health Organization and health system reports of selected countries were also reviewed. Information was extracted based on a data extraction form (researcher-made). Finally, the information was categorized and analyzed by subject.
Results: The study results showed that the main source of financial resources was through the budget and public taxes, and the payment system in the family physician program in the majority of the countries studied was based on performance-based per capita payments. Finally, in addition to the weaknesses and challenges of the countries studied in implementing The family physician program, in Iran, lack of public awareness, poor supervision and management, incorrect policymaking, and challenges in implementing electronic health records were also identified as weaknesses of the family physician program.
Conclusion: Despite the many similarities in the implementation of the family physician program among the selected countries, there are differences in terms of policymaking, implementation methods, and funding methods. Based on the research findings, it is suggested that in order to successfully implement the family physician program, the successful experiences of other countries at the international level, as well as evidence and information in implementing this program, be used.
