Overcoming Ehealth Challenges in Iran by Reforming the Health Policy Approach; [عبور از چالشهای سلامت الکترونیک در ایرا ن با اصلاح رویکرد سیاستگذاری سلامت] Publisher



Jahanbakhsh M ; Ayati M ; Rarani MA
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2026

Abstract

This document was developed based on the findings of a qualitative study that examined the challenges of eHealth policymaking in Iran from the perspectives of health and information technology experts. The findings show that the country’s eHealth system can be divided into four main types of challenges: first, fragmentation and conflict of process owners, meaning that the insufficient authority of the Ministry of Health as the official custodian leads to a lack of coherence and parallelism between the claiming institutions. second, structural and procedural flaws, such that decision-making and actions are generally non-participatory, hasty, and unsupported by expert and evidence-based data. third, vague and non-operational content of policies that are formulated with general, unmeasurable goals and lack realistic timing, and fourth, unfavorable cultural, technical, and international context. These have manifested themselves in the form of resistance to change, concerns about data security, weak infrastructure, and restrictions due to sanctions. According to the options analyzed, overcoming these challenges requires adopting a transformational approach to management and governance. Starting the process with greater transparency and real participation of all stakeholders in designing a practical roadmap is essential. Then, focusing on a few key projects that can be implemented in the short term (such as standardizing data exchange or integrating electronic prescriptions) and publicly monitoring and reporting on their progress can restore lost trust. In the medium term, it is also recommended to gradually strengthen governance through smart incentives rather than direct confrontation, and to invest purposefully in training specialized human resources. Ultimately, a gradual process of movement and the implementation of regional pilots will lead to greater success of the program. In such circumstances, we can expect e-health to be successful as a result of creating a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration between the government, the private sector, service providers, and citizens. © 2025, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.