Challenges Facing Iran’s Health Care System

Forty years now after the Islamic revolution, Iran has witnessed important achievements, especially in the healthcare sector: however, important challenges are still pending.

This review article presents the views of the author on the challenges overcome by the healthcare system in Iran; the author’s view is based on the relevant literature reviews presented in published articles, as well as healthcare policies slated to be pursued by the Ministry of Health.

Compared to other regional countries as well as in the global trend, one of the most important milestones reached by the Iranian healthcare system now 40 years after the Islamic Revolution relates to equity regarding provision of healthcare as well as elimination of gaps in provision for and utilization of universal healthcare. However, a master plan is lacking; especially in the era of dynamic healthcare requirements; the rapid transition from the burden of communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases is a major challenge facing health policy makers. The economic aspect of the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the need for extending universal health coverage, improving , promoting and implementing healthcare policies nationwide without discrimination.

With the Islamic Revolution now entering its fifth decade, it is imperative that the current healthcare system be updated with emphasis on accountability to conform to the dynamic needs of the evolving Iranian society. This can only be achieved by changing the policy making strategies and planning for provision of a contemporary healthcare system.