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JRHMS 2025, 4(2): 52-58 |
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Pourahmadi E, Adel A, Asadi M, Rashki Kemmak A. Exploring the perspectives and expectations of faculty members, and senior and middle-level health system managers regarding the competencies of health economics graduates. JRHMS 2025; 4 (2) :52-58
URL: http://jrhms.thums.ac.ir/article-1-154-en.html
URL: http://jrhms.thums.ac.ir/article-1-154-en.html
1- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Department of Health and Management, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
2- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3- Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
2- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
3- Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
Abstract: (33 Views)
Continuous curriculum revision is essential to ensure that academic programs remain responsive to evolving health system needs. In Iran, despite the establishment of Health Economics as an academic discipline, its professional role within the health system has not been clearly articulated, which may limit its effective utilization in decision-making and resource allocation.
This qualitative study was conducted using a conventional content analysis approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants selected via purposive sampling until data saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed iteratively using MAXQDA software to extract codes, categories, and overarching themes.
Analysis yielded three main themes: (1) analytical competencies and economic evaluation (e.g., cost-effectiveness analysis, economic modeling, Health Technology Assessment, and budget impact analysis); (2) managerial and resource planning skills (e.g., hospital cost analysis, financial management, identifying inefficiencies, and supporting operational planning); and (3) policy and governance roles (e.g., contribution to benefit package design, priority setting, strategic purchasing, and evidence-informed policymaking). The extracted conceptual model indicated that these dimensions function as an interactive cycle, in which strengthening each domain reinforces the others.
Health Economics is a pivotal field for improving efficiency, equity, and financial sustainability in Iran’s health system. Institutionalizing health economics functions—particularly through dedicated units in hospitals and insurance organizations, stronger data infrastructure, and practice-oriented curriculum revision—can enhance the application of economic evidence in management and policymaking.
This qualitative study was conducted using a conventional content analysis approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key informants selected via purposive sampling until data saturation was achieved. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed iteratively using MAXQDA software to extract codes, categories, and overarching themes.
Analysis yielded three main themes: (1) analytical competencies and economic evaluation (e.g., cost-effectiveness analysis, economic modeling, Health Technology Assessment, and budget impact analysis); (2) managerial and resource planning skills (e.g., hospital cost analysis, financial management, identifying inefficiencies, and supporting operational planning); and (3) policy and governance roles (e.g., contribution to benefit package design, priority setting, strategic purchasing, and evidence-informed policymaking). The extracted conceptual model indicated that these dimensions function as an interactive cycle, in which strengthening each domain reinforces the others.
Health Economics is a pivotal field for improving efficiency, equity, and financial sustainability in Iran’s health system. Institutionalizing health economics functions—particularly through dedicated units in hospitals and insurance organizations, stronger data infrastructure, and practice-oriented curriculum revision—can enhance the application of economic evidence in management and policymaking.
Keywords: Health Economics, curriculum development, qualitative study, content analysis, competency, Iran
Type of Study: Orginal Article |
Subject:
General
Received: 2026/05/24 | Accepted: 2026/05/24 | Published: 2026/06/21
Received: 2026/05/24 | Accepted: 2026/05/24 | Published: 2026/06/21
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