Identification and Prioritization of Actors and Stakeholders in the Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity in Iran: The Beginning of a Transformation Publisher



Mollabagher M ; Hassanzadeh A ; Sepehri MM ; Habibelahi A ; Sarabadani A
Source: Journal of Health System Research Published:2026

Abstract

Background: The presence of different actors and stakeholders with different interests and expectations in project implementation is one of the issues that presents project managers with serious challenges in managing stakeholders properly. This study was conducted to identify and prioritize the actors and stakeholders in the field of treating retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), as well as to learn about the level of commitment and effectiveness of the stakeholders in treating this disease. Methods: The present study was conducted in a descriptive-comparative manner and based on the 8-step model of stakeholder analysis using Kammi Schmeer method in 4 implementation stages, with initial identification of stakeholders through library studies, open interviews, and then through the distribution of an electronic questionnaire with purposive and convenience sampling among 54 experts in the treatment process in Iran. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. Findings: The implementation of the research led to the identification of 4 groups of main stakeholders including health management and policymaking, support and implementation, medical service providers, infants and parents, and 23 subgroups in all treatment stages. Further, the level of commitment to creating change and the effectiveness of each of the four groups were investigated. Finally, strategies were presented to advance research goals in the treatment of this disease. Conclusion: The wide diversity of stakeholders reflects the complexities of the treatment process for ROP in Iran. It also highlights the need for collaboration and partnership as a critical step in designing a national care framework for the various stages of screening, identification, and treatment of this disease. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.