Designing the Cultural Paradigm of the Iranian Healthcare System

Culture plays an important role in improving health. Cultural determinants are effective in health service providers. Therefore, the presentation of a health system model via a cultural approach using the conceptual framework of cultural determinants affecting this system is important.

This study was conducted in a methodological manner inspired by "cultural determinants of the health system". A qualitative study  based on applied results, was carried out in two stages using a qualitative content analysis approach. In the first stage, the required data was obtained by qualitative analysis of documents and texts and semi-structured interviews. In the second stage, designing the cultural model of the health system based on cultural determinants, was done; the factors required to identify and encode in the form of models using the conceptual model was  arranged.

Improvement of cultural determinants through attention and development to underlying, structural and cultural factors from the macro level of health policy to health providers and, health care recipients can promote health and reduce health inequalities.

The results of this research can provide insight for planning and implementation of optimal interventions to create a culture of health in accord with demand in health care recipients.