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Showing 2 results for Structural Equation Modeling
Designing a Model for Improving the Country's Health System with an Emphasis on Governance Strategies
Haleh Mohammadiha, Gholam Reza Memarzadeh, Parham Azimi,
Volume 15, Issue 3 (8-2021)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Health systems have played an important role in improving and increasing life expectancy. However, there is a large gap between health systems’ potential and their current performance, most of which relate to governance issues. The purpose of this study is to provide a model for improving the governance of the country's health system.
Materials and Methods: The present study is applied-developmental in terms of purpose. After reviewing the theoretical foundations and previous research, the governance strategies of the health system were identified. Then, using Fuzzy Delphi Method (FDM) and surveying 13 academic and executive experts who were purposefully selected, the research model was designed. Finally, in order to validate the model, 169 managers and specialists of health system departments in Tehran were interviewed with a questionnaire, and the data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) and SmartPLS software. At this stage, the sampling method was available and the sample size was calculated by Cochran's method.
Results: According to the research findings, in order to promote health governance, 10 main strategies and 58 sub-strategies should be considered. Identified strategies include strategic orientation, optimal financial resource management, stakeholder partnership development, knowledge resource development, administrative health promotion, technical knowledge development, value and ethical orientation, executive and operational platform development, Service delivery capacity management and Balanced and integrated stewardship. Also, the coefficient of determination for the outcome variable is 0.549 and the intensity of the effect of intervening/ facilitating and contextual factors on governance strategies is equal to 0.610 and 0.533, respectively.
Conclusion: The results showed that the governance of the health system is a multifaceted and complex phenomenon and in order to improve it, a set of strategies must be implemented. In addition, it is suggested that according to the issues and threats facing the health system, a roadmap and a long-term plan should be developed in order to move towards the governance model proposed in the present study.

Analyzing Patient Satisfaction and Loyalty in a University Dental Clinic: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach
Seyed Hadi Hosseini, Saeed Shahsavari, Yasaman Poormoosa, Mitra Rahimzadeh,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aim: Medical university-affiliated dental clinics, particularly those located in metropolitan areas, provide oral healthcare services to a wide range of patients with diverse demographic and socio-cultural backgrounds. The sustainability and continued effectiveness of these clinics largely depend on patients’ satisfaction and loyalty. Understanding the determinants of these two critical factors and exploring their interrelationship is essential for improving service delivery and enhancing patient retention. Therefore, the present study aimed to analyze patient satisfaction and loyalty in a university dental clinic using a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted during 2023–2024 on a sample of 190 patients who visited the dental clinic of Alborz University of Medical Sciences. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using two standardized questionnaires: one assessing dental patient satisfaction and the other measuring patient loyalty. Structural equation modeling was employed using AMOS software, and model fit was evaluated using standard indices including the Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), and Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA).
Results: The SEM analysis revealed a significant and positive relationship between patient satisfaction and loyalty (β=0.931, P<0.001). Among the dimensions of satisfaction, hygiene and physical conditions (β=0.939), responsiveness and service delivery (β=0.847), appointment scheduling and waiting time (β=0.761) had the most substantial impact on overall satisfaction (P<0.001). Additionally, attitudinal (β=0.996) and behavioral (β=0.859) components emerged as key dimensions of patient loyalty. Model fit indices demonstrated an acceptable level of fit with the data (CFI=0.893, RMSEA=0.077).
Conclusion: To enhance patient satisfaction and foster loyalty, university dental clinics should prioritize internal operational improvements, particularly in the areas of environmental hygiene, service responsiveness, and time management. Creating a positive mental impression through these factors can serve as a foundational step in cultivating long-term loyalty, ultimately contributing to the clinic’s credibility and sustainable performance within a competitive healthcare environment.

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