Health Reforms in Dezful throughout the Pahlavis (1926-1979)

This paper reviews health reforms carried out the city of Dezful (North of Khuzestan Province, Iran), a city with endemic health problems.
Method/Research Design: Data was collected from a combination of archival and library materials as well as using oral history techniques.
Findings: Reconstruction plans were drafted and sanitary and medical services were on the agenda in the 1920s and 1930s. However, none were implemented due to serious shortcomings. Later, with the contribution of the people and the authorities, some NGO's in the region succeeded in introducing number of health and medical initiatives, including the eradication of trachoma. During the 4th National Development Plan (1968-1972), hospitals, clinics and pharmacies were established, and general practitioners and specialists were recruited. Such achievements did not satisfy World Health Organization standards; nevertheless, they led to significant health improvement in the region.