An Exploration of Stakeholders’ Perspectives in the Seventh National Conference on the Integration of Medical Education Into the Healthcare System in Iran Publisher



Ahmady S¹ ; Hassanzadeh G² ; Namaki A¹ ; Kalantarion M¹ ; Shahbazi S³ ; Habibi A⁴ ; Sohrabi S¹ ; Babaei S¹ ; Bagheri S¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Strides in Development of Medical Education Journal Published:2024

Abstract

Background: Integrating medical education and healthcare services in Iran represents a unique model that has achieved considerable success but continues to face challenges. Objectives: This study conducted a content analysis of the 7th National Integration Conference to identify indicators, achievements, challenges, and solutions from stakeholders’ perspectives. Methods: This qualitative study analyzed speeches from the 7th National Integration Conference in Iran using purposive sampling of 13 experts. Data were gathered from recorded presentations and analyzed inductively through qualitative methods to identify codes, categories, and themes. The study followed rigorous quality criteria and ethical principles, including informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, and voluntary participation. Results: The study identified three themes, eleven categories, thirty-four subcategories, and 310 initial codes. Discourse analysis highlighted achievements in education, research, services, social outcomes, and economics, as well as challenges at strategic, operational, and influential levels. Proposed strategies included improving public health, implementing organizational solutions, making educational recommendations, and pursuing research-focused actions. Key findings emphasized transitioning to functional integration, maintaining curricula relevancy to societal priorities, and aligning research with public health needs. Conclusion: The conference facilitated knowledge sharing and networking among participants on integrating medical education and healthcare systems. Challenges and opportunities related to convergence were discussed, emphasizing the need for future research to evaluate integration models, enable coordination, and provide data-driven recommendations. Effective collaboration between educators and providers is essential to improve education quality and patient outcomes. A comprehensive assessment of integration strategies is crucial to ensuring the approach’s efficacy and sustainability. © 2024, Strides in Development of Medical Education is Published by Kerman University of Medical Science.