A Review of Published Scientific Outputs in the Field of Budgeting Methods in the Health System; [مروری بر تولیدات علمی منتشرشده در حوزه ی روش های بودجه ریزی در نظام سلامت]



Rajaee R ; Najafi M ; Donyaee N ; Vaziriseta M ; Rahmani H ; Rajabi G ; Akbari M
Source: Journal of Payavard Salamat Published:2025

Abstract

Background and Aim: Budgeting in the health system plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of healthcare services, increasing equitable access to health care, and reducing costs. Financial decision-making based on scientific data and evidence can improve the efficiency of the health system and ensure equity in resource allocation. This study aimed to examine the scientific status and trends of published literature on budgeting methods in the health system using bibliometric analysis to assist policymakers in making better financial decisions. Materials and Methods: This study is a bibliometric review with a descriptive-analytical approach, analyzing 222 scientific documents indexed in Scopus between 1974 and 2024. Data were analyzed using Excel, Bibexcel, VOSviewer, and Gephi software to map the knowledge structure, co-word relationships, and international collaborations in this field. Results: The United States (30%), Taiwan (15%), and Canada (10%) were the leading contributors to scientific output in this field. Journal articles comprised nearly 90% of all publications. The most frequent keywords were “budget,” “health care cost,” and “financial management,” reflecting a strong emphasis on cost control and resource management. Three main budgeting approaches were identified: performance-based, traditional (historical), and needs-based. Traditional budgeting remains dominant in developing countries, particularly where information infrastructure and managerial capacity are limited. International collaboration involved 18 countries, with the strongest cooperation observed between the United States and Taiwan. Conclusion: Improving the health budgeting system requires strengthening information systems, training managers, and enhancing international scientific collaboration. Resource allocation based on scientific data and bibliometric insights can optimize resource distribution and enhance equity in access to health services. Such measures would lead to greater health system efficiency and more comprehensive financial decision-making. Copyright © 2025 the Authors.