Volume 27, Issue 5 (Iran South Med J 2025)                   Iran South Med J 2025, 27(5): 368-383 | Back to browse issues page

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Sedaghat A, Ahmadi Y, Yaghoubipour A. Scenario Planning for Strategic Decision-Making in Iran's Health Transformation. Iran South Med J 2025; 27 (5) :368-383
URL: http://ismj.bpums.ac.ir/article-1-2140-en.html
1- Department of Public Administration, School of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Sirjan Branch, Sirjan, Iran
2- Department of Public Administration, School of Humanities, Islamic Azad University, Sirjan Branch, Sirjan, Iran , yaghoubipoor@yahoo.com
Abstract:   (84 Views)
Background: The Health Transformation Plan (HTP) is a comprehensive program aimed at improving Iran's healthcare system, with objectives including enhanced service accessibility, reduced treatment costs, improved service quality, and the realization of health equity. However, achieving these goals requires fundamental revisions in economic, structural, and social dimensions, adopting a future-oriented approach. This study was conducted to foresight the HTP for optimal policymaking.
Materials and Methods: The research employed a mixed-methods approach, based on literature review, cross-impact analysis, and scenario development. Data were analyzed using MICMAC and Scenario Wizard software, along with expert opinions from healthcare professionals.
Results: Scenario Wizard analysis identified nine highly probable scenarios out of 306, with four being the most robust. The first scenario, with an impact score of 221, was the strongest but represented an unfavorable situation where all driving forces were in crisis. The second, third, and fourth scenarios followed with scores of 181, 102, and 65, respectively. However, realizing these scenarios without fundamental economic, structural, and social reforms would not yield desirable outcomes.
Conclusion: The findings revealed that financial challenges, infrastructure deficits, and misalignment between expertise and healthcare reforms are major barriers to the plan’s success. Recommendations include strengthening IT infrastructure, formulating sustainable financial policies, implementing public awareness programs, and applying futures studies methodologies. Additionally, a step-by-step, goal-oriented project management approach can enhance the plan’s effectiveness.
Full-Text [PDF 335 kb]   (48 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Review Systematic and Meta Analysis | Subject: Healthcare management
Received: 2024/11/25 | Accepted: 2025/03/17 | Published: 2025/06/1

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