Showing 119 results for Health
Noushin Kohan, Fatemeh Keshmiri, Roohollah Askari,
Volume 21, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract
Background: It is expected that graduates of healthcare management have the necessary skills to perform various managerial and administrative positions. This study was carried out with the aim of designing and compiling an evaluation framework for students based on educational standards in the internship period.
Materials &Methods: The current study was conducted in four phases: In the first phase, in order to identify the problem and assess the needs, the existing curriculum and topics were examined, as well as the studies conducted in this field. In the second phase, the perspective of the stakeholders was used to complete and modify the initial framework. In the third phase, worksheets for registering internship learning activities were prepared for students and a checklist of educational and learning objectives, personal and management skills, and skills for developing professional qualifications was compiled. Finally, a specialized panel was used to determine the type of formative and final exams.
Results: The problems and challenges of internships can be investigated in 4 areas: inappropriate planning of the course, faculty, group - professors and hospital. In designing the evaluation tool, 9 criteria were taken into consideration. Also, tests designed in a compilation framework were used as formative tests and reasoning tests were used as final tests.
Conclusion: The compiled framework can be used as a valid and comprehensive tool to evaluate the practical competence and capabilities of healthcare management students during the internship period.
Ahmad Arabkhani, Hossein Dargahi, Raheb Ghorbani, Israfil Rushdi,
Volume 22, Issue 1 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background: The development of the health system increases the health level of the society. The present study was carried out with the aim of development of "Health System Development Scale".
Methods: The study was qualitative-quantitative. For qualitative part, a semi-structured interview with 11 experts was conducted in a targeted manner with maximum diversity and the results were analyzed by open, central and selective coding method. For quantitative part, first the validity of the questionnaire was carried out through interviews with 10 experts. Finally, the construct validity was conducted according to the opinion of 220 experts by exploratory factor analysis (with the Kaiser-Meyer-Elkin scale) and confirmatory factor analysis (in the form of divergent, convergent validity and fit indices) using SPSS and Lisrel software. Reliability was also measured by calculating Cronbach's alpha coefficient and composite reliability.
Results: The scale was designed with 40 statements obtained from the findings of the qualitative study. In the quantitative part, the appearance and content validity ratio of the dimensions of the questionnaire was qualitatively confirmed (for all statements between 0.80 and 0.1). Construct validity was done by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and convergent validity was between 0.53 and 0.75 and divergent validity was between 0.54 and 1. The internal consistency of the tool was approved with Cronbach's alpha coefficient between 0.75 and 0.86 and composite reliability coefficient was between 0.72 and 0.80.
Conclusion: The validity and reliability of the scale was confirmed. It is suggested to use it to measure the level of development in the health system by experts in this field.
Moslem Sharifi, Jalal Saeidpour, Mohammad Javad Kabir, Abdollah Poursamad, Mehdi Ebrahimi, Bahman Khosravi,
Volume 22, Issue 1 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and purpose: With the establishment of a comprehensive health information system (SIB system) in the health department of Iran's health system, one of the important programs of this country to improve health care through the integration of health information was keyed. This study analyzed the performance of this program from the point of view of the end users of the system in the health centers of Boyar Ahmad city.
Materials and Methods: This study was a qualitative research that was conducted using semi-structured interviews and focus group meetings with 25 system users, support officials and staff experts at different levels, reviewing relevant documents and also observing users' performance. The snowball sampling method was carried out in a targeted and networked manner. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyze the data. MAXQDA10 software was used to record, organize and manage study data after collection.
Results: The findings of this study showed that the deployment of this system from the users' point of view contains many positive and negative points, which can be categorized in five general axes, data management system, caregivers' performance, care management, quality of care and infrastructure. The most important challenges of the system included technical inefficiencies, operational inefficiencies, the challenge of statistics and reporting, and technical and social infrastructure, and the most important benefits were improving the quality of care, tracking and reporting, facilitating the care process, and improving the performance of caregivers.
Conclusion: From the point of view of users, the Sib system can be considered as a positive experience in improving the quality of health care, but due to the existence of many challenges, it is far from its final goals
Behrooz Rahimi, Seyed Mahdi Jalali, Hamed Nazarpour Kashani,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Introduction: Equitable geographical distribution of healthcare system initiatives, aimed at increasing quality and economic efficiency, is a crucial aspect of ensuring access to healthcare services. This study seeks to elucidate the contextual, procedural, and outcome factors of health marketing in Iran, with a focus on enhancing and improving health services.
Methods: This research was conducted using a qualitative approach. The sampling method employed was purposive, resulting in the participation of 51 experts. The study data were analyzed using content analysis.
Findings: The findings of this study have been categorized into conceptual subgroups, including causal conditions, foundational components, strategies, contextual factors, intervening factors, and consequences of implementation.
Conclusion: Adopting an effective health marketing model can create opportunities for service providers to generate sufficient income, thereby motivating them to deliver high-quality services. Attracting ample income, in addition to ensuring service quality for recipients, will also lead to their satisfaction with the healthcare system and contribute to the continuous provision of desirable services.
Eesa Niazi, Fatemeh Chourlie,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and purpose: In response to evolving external environments, organizations must renew their valuable resources to sustain competitive advantage. Dynamic capabilities empower organizations to effectively navigate these continual changes. Essentially, dynamic capabilities foster a stable behavioral orientation within organizations, facilitating integration, reformulation, renewal, and reconstruction of resources and capabilities, particularly enhancing and revitalizing core capabilities in response to dynamic environments to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. This study explores the influence of dynamic capabilities on constructive collaboration and supply chain performance within healthcare centers. Dynamic capabilities are categorized into four perspectives: sensitivity, learning, coordination, and integration. Constructive collaboration serves as a mediating variable, while technological orientation acts as a moderating variable in the model.
Methods: This study adopts an applied purpose and descriptive-survey method. The statistical population comprises employees at Ayatollah Taleghani Gonbadkavus Hospital. Using a questionnaire adapted from Mandal's (2022) study, the research establishes relationships between variables, categorized as descriptive-analytical. The questionnaire's validity was assessed using convergence and divergence methods, and reliability was confirmed using Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability. Data analysis employed structural equation modeling and Smart-PLS software.
Results: Data analysis reveals a significant relationship between the learning, coordination, and integration perspectives of the hospital and constructive collaboration. However, no significant relationship is observed between the sensitivity perspective and constructive collaboration, nor between constructive collaboration and the performance of the healthcare system's supply chain. A significant relationship exists, and technological orientation does not moderate the relationship between the sensitivity perspective and learning with constructive collaboration, but it moderates the relationship between the coordination and integration perspective with constructive collaboration.
Conclusion: Improvements in collaborative efforts across various hospital departments, decreased risks of medical errors, enhanced service quality, and elevated professional status of staff are among the outcomes of assessing the performance of hospitals' sustainable supply chains.
Ebrahim Hasanzadeh, Hasan Aboulghasem Gorji, Aziz Rezapour, Mani Yousef Vand,
Volume 22, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and purpose: Supplementary health insurance plays a pivotal role in the health economy and individual payments, enhancing access to health services and improving individual quality of life. This study aims to explore the challenges and strategies for developing supplementary health insurance.
Methods: This systematic review examined research related to the challenges and strategies for the development of supplementary health insurance in various countries, focusing on articles published in the last five years in both domestic and international databases. For each article, a data extraction form was completed, and the data were subsequently classified, summarized, and analyzed.
Results: Seventeen articles met the study's inclusion and exclusion criteria and were analyzed. The main challenges and strategies for developing supplementary health insurance were identified across seven primary themes: premium and financing, electronic infrastructure, quality improvement, moral hazards and adverse selection, cost-effectiveness and efficiency, evidence-based decision-making, and effective awareness and advertising.
Conclusion: Considering the numerous identified challenges and barriers in the development of supplementary health insurance, it is recommended to focus on creating electronic infrastructures and necessary platforms to enhance and develop policies in supplementary health insurance, particularly in the dimensions of service packages, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency
Mohaddese Arefi, Farzad Firouzijahantigh,
Volume 22, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and purpose: The organ transplant network is among the most complex and challenging systems in the healthcare sector. This study presents a three-objective hierarchical location model for kidney transplants, aiming to simultaneously minimize total time and costs while maximizing geographic equity in the supply and demand network for donated kidneys. Various transportation modes within the network are also analyzed.
Materials and Methods: This applied research was conducted over a one-year period in 2022 (1401 in the Iranian calendar) in the province of Sistan and Baluchistan. The proposed mathematical model was implemented in GAMS software and solved using the Torabi-Hosseini method and epsilon constraint technique.
Results: The model recommended establishing candidate locations for organ collection units and transplant centers without the need for air transport equipment. It suggested that only the candidate location number 2 at Zabol Hospital Transplant Center should be equipped with air transport facilities, while the other proposed locations do not require the establishment or use of air emergency services.
Conclusion: The results indicate that the designed kidney transplant network is practical and feasible. Efficient network management ensures that all organ recipients, even those far from the provincial center and in remote areas, have timely access to the necessary facilities and equipment for transplant operations.
Mohammad Heydaryan Manesh, Aida Asghary, Ebrahim Jaafaripooyan,
Volume 22, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
The provision of virtual health care has currently received ample attention from health systems worldwide, due to the recent conditions and events. Many countries are trying to provide their preliminary visits and a relatively wide range of other care virtually, paving the way towards the introduction of virtual clinics. However, in many countries, this concept has not been clearly defined, and the characteristics that are necessary to use the virtual clinics are still unknown. This perspective has sought to explain the concept of virtual clinics and their characteristics with a brief review of related literature.
Saeede Afshari, Shaghayegh Vahdat, Iravan Masoudi Asl, Somayeh Hesam,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: In today’s competitive organizational landscape, the significance of recruiting and developing competent human resources has become paramount. Organizations not only aim to select and attract capable and efficient personnel but also seek to enhance and expand their capabilities. Consequently, the concept of meritocracy has become a key concern for modern organizations. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing succession planning in the leadership of healthcare organizations in Iran.
Methods: This qualitative study was conducted using content analysis in 2020. The statistical population comprised key decision-makers and policymakers in successful and prominent Iranian organizations known for effective succession planning, such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the public banking system. A total of 15 experts were selected through purposive and snowball sampling, with data collection continuing until theoretical saturation was achieved. Data were gathered through structured interviews, and the analysis and coding were performed using MAXQDA 11 software.
Results: The study identified five main themes: alignment of strategic goals and needs analysis, strategic communication and organizational structure, talent identification and empowerment, development and excellence of qualified individuals, and monitoring of succession planning programs. These were further divided into 13 sub-themes.
Conclusion: Organizations and managers should provide comprehensive support and demonstrate commitment to the effective implementation of succession planning programs. This will lead to improved organizational decisions and policies, ensuring that competent and qualified individuals are placed in key positions. Additionally, this approach will enhance work quality, boost employee motivation, reduce resource wastage, and improve career advancement opportunities for staff.
Mehran Lak, Farnaz Vosough, Kianoush Saberi, Shahnaz Sharifi, Hadi Pashapour,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Infections related to inadequate healthcare practices can have adverse effects on healthcare systems. This study aims to identify the gap between the current handwashing practices and standard levels by determining the frequency of handwashing among staff at Shahid Modares Hospital in Tehran.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the wards of Shahid Modares Hospital between 2018 and 2019. The tool comprised two parts: job information and hand hygiene practices at different times and specific actions. Observers directly monitored all staff in each shift using a headcount method. Each column represented the hand hygiene compliance score of a specific professional group, allowing simultaneous performance evaluation.
Results: Out of 640 observed instances, 202 involved the use of disinfectants, 255 involved handwashing, 111 involved glove use, and in 71 instances, hand hygiene was not observed. The highest compliance occurred when staff intended to contact the patient's body, while the lowest compliance was observed after performing surgery on the patient.
Conclusion: Given the significant role of nurses in therapeutic interventions, multifaceted training interventions, the drafting of hand hygiene policies, and increasing awareness among department officials should prioritize this group of employees. These measures aim to bring practices closer to desired standards and prevent unwanted consequences.
Asgar Aghaei Hashjin, Ali Nemati, Seyed Mohammad Tabatabaee Jabali, Pouria Farrokhi,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: Iran is ranked among the top ten nations in the world for hosting a large number of migrants and refugees. During the COVID-19 outbreak, refugees and migrants were among the most vulnerable groups. This study aimed to investigate the extent of healthcare service utilization by refugees and migrants during the COVID-19 pandemic in healthcare centers affiliated with Iran University of Medical Sciences
Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted in 2021 in Tehran. The research environment included all healthcare networks and general and specialized hospitals. Data were collected through document review and registered information in the Sina system. All provided services were categorized into four groups: primary care, outpatient, emergency, and inpatient services. Data analysis was performed using the Chow test and Interrupted Time Series model with the Wats and Sctest software packages in R version 4.3.0.
Results: The decrease in utilization of outpatient, emergency, and inpatient services by refugees and migrants was significant (P-value < 0.001), whereas the decrease in primary care services was not significant. Additionally, after the onset of COVID-19, only the utilization of inpatient services showed a significant increasing trend (P-value < 0.013).
Conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the utilization of all healthcare services by refugees and migrants, including primary, outpatient, emergency, and inpatient care, decreased. It is recommended to provide complete insurance coverage for refugees, offer free treatment for impoverished refugees, increase awareness among refugees to encourage greater use of health services, reduce existing social and economic barriers, and facilitate interaction between healthcare providers and refugees.
Mehrak Pourmotahari, Soad Mahfoozpour, Shahram Tofighi, Shaghayegh Vahdat, Irvan Masoudi Asl,
Volume 22, Issue 4 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: As health resources face increasing constraints, the use of medical imaging services has risen significantly. On average, diagnostic services account for approximately 10% of total healthcare expenditures, and this figure is steadily increasing. This study aims to identify the causes of irrational utilization of medical imaging services and propose corrective measures.
Methods: This descriptive-survey research was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, a comprehensive literature review was performed using both international and national databases, covering the period from 1990 to November 2021. Relevant studies were identified using specific keywords. In the second phase, a semi-structured questionnaire was developed, and a series of in-depth interviews with experts and professionals were conducted. Data were analyzed using the six-step thematic approach by Braun and Clarke, utilizing MAXQDA software.
Results: A total of 605 studies were initially identified, of which seven met the inclusion criteria after rigorous screening. In the second phase, 12 in-depth interviews were conducted, yielding 65 codes, which were organized into 12 themes. The identified themes included legal issues, conflict of interest, monitoring challenges, poor governance and stewardship, inappropriate policymaking and planning, financial incentives, inadequate service provision infrastructure, health culture, education and continuous training systems, financing and purchasing services, political factors, and inadequate insurance systems. Various strategies for controlling the inappropriate use of diagnostic and therapeutic services were proposed, including policy interventions, monitoring and evaluation, and training.
Conclusion: The irrational use of healthcare services is a significant challenge in many countries. Key contributing factors include incomplete insurance coverage, out-of-pocket payments by patients, defensive medical practices, and gaps in knowledge. Addressing these issues requires targeted interventions and reforms.
Mohammad Amin Zar Foroush, Zeinab Partovi Shayan, Ghasem Rajabi Vasakolaei,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: The laundry unit is one of the most critical support services in a hospital. Optimizing processes and implementing effective management strategies in this unit can significantly impact cost management. This study aims to examine various aspects of hospital laundry units.
Methods: This research was conducted across the teaching hospitals affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The study employed a multi-step approach. First, the most crucial performance criteria for laundry units were identified through a fuzzy Delphi technique, consulting 20 experts in the field. These criteria were then weighted using the Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) method. Finally, hospitals were ranked using the VIseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR) method.
Results: The analysis of main criteria in the laundry unit revealed the following significance levels: "performance criteria" (56%), "equipment and facilities" (28%), and "cost management" (16%). Among the sub-criteria, "process" emerged as the top priority with a weight of 0.285, followed by "general laundry section regulations" (0.155), "safety and health" (0.139), and "general" (0.081).
Conclusion: The findings highlight the paramount importance of the "process" sub-criterion in hospital laundries. Consequently, we recommend updating guidelines for linen collection, washing, maintenance, and distribution. Furthermore, given that "general laundry section regulations" ranked as the second priority, we suggest implementing clear separation of dirty and clean pathways within the laundry unit and establishing a system for continuous recording and weighing of received garments. These measures can significantly enhance overall process management and cost efficiency.
Asra Khalili, Ali Mohammad Mosadegh Rad, Shahram Ghafary, Ebrahim Jaafaripooyan,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: Effective management of human resources is crucial for improving healthcare services, as personnel are an organization's most valuable asset. This study aims to identify challenges in human resource management and propose solutions to enhance service quality in hospital settings.
Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews with 53 managers and key decision-makers from Social Security hospitals in Tehran, using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyze the data. The validity and reliability of the qualitative findings were ensured through participant and expert review methods.
Results: The study identified numerous human resource challenges, categorized into five main groups and 20 subgroups. Key issues included flawed recruitment and hiring processes, unfavorable working conditions, weak human resource organization, inadequate staff training, and ambiguity in employment laws and regulations. Proposed solutions, classified into five main groups and 29 subgroups, encompassed: enhancing recruitment and hiring processes, fostering a dynamic organizational culture, improving human resource productivity and efficiency, transforming hospitals into learning organizations, providing comprehensive and effective training, and increasing transparency in rules and regulations, particularly in job descriptions.
Conclusion: Regular identification of human resource management challenges and implementation of evidence-based, scientific, and operational solutions can significantly improve human resource management and, consequently, hospital performance in Social Security hospitals.
Saied Moradi, Mohammadreza Rabiee Mandejin, Mohammad Mohammadi,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: The implementation of key components in the selection of meritorious candidates, ensuring they possess the necessary capabilities for key and sensitive positions, and adhering to the principle of meritocracy in the distribution of power and division of duties and responsibilities among society’s elites, not only contributes to the stability, growth, and development of the country but is also one of the secrets to the success and longevity of leaders. Therefore, this article aims to explain the factors influencing the competence development of public hospital managers, guided by the general policies of the health system.
Methods: The research was developmental in purpose and qualitative in method, utilizing thematic analysis. The statistical population included books, articles, documents, and knowledgeable human resources, comprising government management experts, hospital managers with a master's degree or higher, and at least ten years of experience in hospital management. The study employed a purposive approach with semi-structured interviews, continuing until theoretical saturation was reached (16 interviews)
Results: A total of 18 competence development factors were identified, categorized into 75 components and 671 dimensions. The implementation of the Strauss-Corbin model revealed that causal conditions included leadership, doctors, and staff. Intervening conditions encompassed the economy, research technology, and education. In addition to goals and missions, organizational platform, creativity, services, and structure were considered contextual conditions. Human resource management, public relations, and religion were identified as strategies, while the resulting consequences were classified into expertise, a knowledge-based economy, and internationalization.
Conclusion: According to the research findings, it appears that to advance, upgrade, and excel in hospitals that play a critical role in the health of society, these identified factors can be utilized to enhance the competence of public hospital managers.
Mahshid Zare, Zahra Kavosi, Sedighe Sadat Tabatabaei Far,
Volume 23, Issue 1 (5-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a significant shock to healthcare systems worldwide, including Iran. The mental health of nurses, who have been at the forefront of the fight against the virus, has been profoundly impacted. This study aims to examine the mental health status of Iranian nurses during the pandemic.
Methods: This rapid review was conducted by searching keywords such as "Mental Health," "Nurse," and "COVID-19" in databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Mag Iran, and Civilica. Articles were selected based on their titles, abstracts, and full texts in alignment with the study’s research objectives.
Results: The reviewed studies revealed a range of mental health disorders among nurses working in COVID-19 wards, with stress, anxiety, and depression being the most common. Several factors, such as demographic variables and the specific departments where nurses served, were identified as influencing their mental health. Given that the mental health of nurses affects the quality of care, resilience, and job satisfaction, various strategies have been proposed to improve their mental health.
Conclusion: The findings suggest that the mental health status of nurses is not at an optimal level, and neglecting this issue could lead to long-term harm to the healthcare system and its economic stability. It is recommended that healthcare managers and policymakers implement appropriate measures to address this critical concern.
Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Heydari Baghdadabad, Alireza Maetoofi, Ali Farhadi Mahalli , Mojtaba Tabari,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: Hospitals play a critical role in promoting public health and well-being in social contexts. This necessitates codified standards aimed at maintaining treatment quality and enhancing social satisfaction. Hospital accreditation policy evaluation is considered a systematic process that can have significant social and functional implications for hospitals. This study aims to present an evaluation model of hospital accreditation policy based on the process of paradigmatic phenomenology.
Methods: Using Husserl's (1970) phenomenological approach, this study developed a paradigmatic evaluation model in five analytical steps. First, through interviews with experts and open coding, propositional themes related to the phenomenon under study were identified. A focus group was then formed to discuss and analyze these propositions. Each proposition was scored using the Q-method checklist, with scores ranging from +6 to -6, to identify paradigmatic clusters.
Results: During the qualitative analysis, 16 interviews resulted in 138 open codes. After eliminating redundancies and overlapping codes, 50 propositional themes were finalized. These themes were organized into conceptual clusters within the framework of paradigmatic phenomenology, following Husserl's methodological steps.
Conclusion: The study's findings underscore the formation of a hospital accreditation policy evaluation model structured around causal, intervening, contextual conditions, strategies, and outcomes. This model has the potential to enhance the effectiveness of healthcare service delivery and improve the overall quality of treatment in society.
Ehsan Ameri,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: As part of Iran’s Health System Transformation Plan (HSTP), the first service package aimed to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for hospitalized patients in hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Health and Medical Education. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the policy in reducing patient payments at teaching hospitals under Golestan University of Medical Sciences.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted between 2021 and 2022. A total of 384 participants—including healthcare workers, medical staff, and physicians—were randomly selected from teaching hospitals affiliated with Golestan University of Medical Sciences. Data were collected using a 35-item researcher-designed questionnaire, validated by experts, with a Cronbach's alpha reliability score of 0.83. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 22, Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, and a one-sample t-test.
Results: Indicate a gap of -0.11 between the current situation and the desired outcome of the HSTP’s first axis (reducing patient payments). Analysis using the gap analysis matrix revealed that the primary shortcoming is in regulatory oversight.
Conclusion: While the Health System Transformation Plan has successfully reduced out-of-pocket expenses for hospitalized patients, it has not fully met the program’s intended financial relief targets. Further policy adjustments are required, particularly in expanding universal insurance coverage and ensuring adequate financial resource allocation to improve accessibility and affordability for patients.
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Volume 23, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Ali Ghaffarian, Azam Cheraghi, Masoud Ferdosi,
Volume 23, Issue 2 (8-2024)
Abstract
Background and purpose: Accreditation is one of the most widely recognized and reliable methods for evaluating the quality of hospital services. However, its implementation is often accompanied by various challenges for hospitals. This study aimed to identify the challenges associated with accreditation in small and single-specialty hospitals from the perspective of those involved in the process.
Methods: This qualitative descriptive study was conducted with the participation of 30 individuals, including hospital staff, national accreditation evaluators, and experts from the Ministry of Health's Monitoring and Accreditation Office. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and individual sessions. Content analysis was used to process the data, which was analyzed using Max-QDA software (version 20).
Results: The accreditation challenges of small hospitals were categorized into four main themes: "accreditation process," "human resources," "structural issues," and "financial constraints." For single-specialty hospitals, challenges were grouped into three themes: "accreditation process," "human resources," and "uniformity of accreditation standards." Common challenges for both hospital types included low staff motivation, insufficient training in accreditation procedures, and issues related to evaluators.
Conclusion: In addition to general accreditation challenges, small and single-specialty hospitals face unique obstacles due to their specific conditions and inherent differences from other hospitals. To ensure the successful implementation of accreditation programs in Iran, policymakers should thoroughly examine the identified challenges and incorporate these insights into national hospital accreditation planning and implementation strategies.
