Tehran – A comprehensive training and consultation workshop integrating the social determinants of health (SDH) into primary health care (PHC) was held at the Museum of Medical History and History in Tehran.
The event, co-organized by the Ministry of Health, Medical and Education (MOHME) and the country office of Iran’s World Health Organization (WHO), took place on February 18th and provided opportunities for stakeholders to improve their approaches to address health inequality across the country and to promote joint initiatives.
The all-day and interactive workshops are designed to provide practical tools and insights to participants. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including health agents at medical colleges, a focus from the top health food security councils, and a dedicated team from seven pilot districts in six states.
Participants engaged in a series of eight dynamic group work activities held by four teams. Activities were organized to cover the entire scope of SDH by establishing an effective SDH committee and meticulously assessing healthy equity indicators and proceeding to planning, monitoring, evaluation stages and comprehensive documentation.
At the heart of the initiative is the recognition that SDH, including a wide range of structural, political, cultural, economic and environmental factors, has a significant impact on health outcomes. By focusing on these determinants, the Islamic Republic of Iran aims to strengthen cooperation between sectors and ensure that health continues to be prioritized in all sectors of society. This overall approach is important to achieving sustainable improvements in health equity.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has demonstrated significant advances in integrating SDH into its health system. That commitment is demonstrated by developing national protocols and establishing a state network centered around SDH’s Medical Science College and Research Center. The coaching and mentorship-based approach is central to developing a comprehensive national operational SDH framework and toolkit, and establishing a state network that incorporates valuable local recommendations and field feedback.
One important outcome is the rigorous identification of health inequality indicators based on systematic approaches that utilize real data, defined tools, and active engagement of stakeholders and communities. These indicators currently serve as the basis for coordinated action plans across all pilot areas, ensuring that interventions are targeted and effective.
During the workshop, experts and stakeholders shared insights and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting health equity. Deputy Health Minister Alireza Raeisi highlighted the focus points of Health Volunteers, PHC Networks, and the potential of WHO and international partners to support SDH efforts, highlighting the pivotal role of community engagement.
“Our success depends on our ability to mobilize and empower our community,” Raeisi said.
The representative and mission head of Iran’s Islamic Republic has praised Iran’s leadership since 2022 when addressing SDH through the PHC.
“Iran’s aggressive approach sets a strong example for other countries,” Hussein said. “Who is committed to providing ongoing support to ensure the success of these initiatives?”
Hasan Emami Razabi, director of the Supreme Council of Health and Food Safety, reiterated the Council’s unwavering commitment to strengthening governance structures to address SDH. Advisor to Mohammad Assaei’s Health Deputy provided a comprehensive overview of Iran’s progress, highlighting the development of the first national protocol and the use of outcome-based health indicators.
Hussain reaffirmed those who are committed to continuing partnerships with Mohme and key stakeholders, highlighting the common goal of reducing health inequality and promoting universal health insurance.
This workshop represents an important step in transforming SDH principles into concrete actions, ensuring that health is shaped not only by healthcare but also by social, economic and environmental conditions where people live and work.
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