Validation of Primary Health Care Governance Model of Iran Using the Delphi Method

Validation of Primary Health Care Governance Model of Iran Using the Delphi Method Jaafarsadegh Tabrizi1, Raana Gholamzadeh Nikjoo2* 1MD, Phd, Department of Health policy and Management, Health Services Management Research Center, Faculty of Management and Medical Informatic, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences 2Phd, Department of Health Policy and Management, Iranian center of excellence in health management. Health Services Management Research Center. Faculty of Management and Medical Informatic, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Abstract Introduction: Primary care governance has been in force since 1999 with the introduction of general practices into local primary care groups in the United Kingdom. The aim of primary health care (PHC) governance is to ensure the use of evidence-based medicine in PHC groups and to reduce the variability in access to PHC services to improve health outcomes and promote the standards of services provided to customers. This study was conducted to validate the primary health care governance model of Iran. Methods: This is a qualitative study. The primary health care governance model components came from the literature review, focus group discussions, and interviews were sent to 40 qualified professionals through the Delphi form. Based on the median score and by holding four experts’ panel sessions, the model was approved. Evaluation indicators of the model were proposed through literature review and expert meetings. By sending these indicators along with other components of the model in the Delphi questionnaire to 30 qualified specialists, the final model was confirmed with the calculation of CVR and CVI in two Delphi rounds. Results: Proposed Iran’s PHC governance model, with a fundamental pillar, leadership, five main pillars (quality management, community involvement, health information management, human resource development, monitoring and evaluation), 22 components, and 64 assessment indicators, was designed to reduce the weaknesses and challenges by relying on strengths and opportunities of the system. Conclusion: Iran’s primary health care governance model has the potential to improve the quality and increase accountability level in the health system of the country and to evaluate the progress of the health care system toward the excellence. Keywords: Primary Health Care; Governance; Quality Management; Community Participation; Monitoring and Evaluation   Please cite this article as follows: Tabrizi JS, Gholamzadeh Nikjoo R. Validation of Primary Health Care Governance Model of Iran Using the Delphi method. Hakim Health Sys Res. 2019; 22(3): 164-180. *Corresponding Author: Department of Health policy and Management, Health Services Management Research Center, Faculty of Management and Medical Informatic, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. Tel: +98-4133251376, Email: [email protected]