Authors : Sogand Tourani, Mohammadreza Amiresmaili, Mohammadreza Maleki and Mohammad Hadian
Abstract: The aim of this study was to analyze the process of priority setting at different levels of Iran’s health system. In this qualitative study, 19 Experts of different levels of health system were interviewed. The semi-structured interview guide was designed based on literature review and three initial in depth interviews. Framework analysis method was used for the analysis of qualitative data. Eight themes and 21 sub-themes regarding health priority setting were identified. Macro level priority setting, priority setting between and within medical universities, priority setting criteria, Measuring costs and effectiveness, Resource shift, Public participation and decision making rule for resources allocation. Health sector share of public budget was unrealistic and was based on historical patterns. Political factors and lobbying influenced resource allocation between and within medical universities. Resource allocation was mainly structure based and health factors were least influential. Although, resource shifting was possible within plans but it was impossible within them, public participation in priority setting was not sufficient and systematic, decision making on resource allocation was mainly based on needs and judgment. Some priority setting activities are in progress but they do not tend to be either integrated or organized. In order to improve priority setting, taking steps toward explicit approaches is suggested.
Sogand Tourani, Mohammadreza Amiresmaili, Mohammadreza Maleki and Mohammad Hadian, 2009. An Interview Survey on Health Priority Setting Practice in Iran. Research Journal of Biological Sciences, 4: 1193-1201.