Strategies for Managing Nurse Migration From Iran: A Qualitative Study; راهکارهای مدیریت مهاجرت پرستاران از ایران: یک مطالعه کیفی



Am Mosadeghrad Ali MOHAMMAD ; Aa Fazaeli Ali AKBAR ; M Zahmatkesh MARYAM ; A Ebadi ABBAS ; F Moghaddasi FARINAZ
Source: Iran Occupational Health Published:2025

Abstract

Background and aims: In recent years, the migration of nurses from Iran has become a significant challenge for the country’s healthcare system. The continuation of this trend may have adverse consequences on the quality and sustainability of health services and lead to a reduction in an efficient workforce. Therefore, identifying effective strategies to manage nurse migration is of critical importance. Methods: This qualitative study, utilizing a content analysis approach, was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 57 participants, including 25 migrant nurses, 17 nurses planning to migrate, and 15 senior managers and faculty members of nursing departments at the Ministry of Health and universities in 2024. Purposeful and snowball sampling were used, continuing until data saturation was achieved. Data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach, supported by MAXQDA software. Results: Strategies for managing nurse migration were identified in 10 key themes, including: increasing salaries and benefits, creating appropriate and sustainable employment opportunities, developing educational and empowerment programs, managing workload, improving nursing management, promoting workplace justice, cooperating with destination countries, adopting strategies to strengthen nurse retention, systematically managing the nurse migration process, and managing return migration and circular migration. Conclusion: Nurse migration from Iran poses a significant challenge to the country’s healthcare system. Improving working conditions—including increasing salaries and benefits and implementing effective programs to enhance nurse retention are essential. By providing appropriate occupational support, the negative consequences of migration can be mitigated, thereby improving the quality of healthcare services. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.