Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2 Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
3 Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Science, Tehran, Iran. AND Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare
4 Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, Social Health Research Institute, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran. AND QUEST Center for Responsible Research, Berlin Institute of Health at Charité, Berlin.
Abstract
Objective : This qualitative study aimed to identify the key challenges of managing patients affected by biological emergencies in Iran.
Methods: This is a part of the Grounded Theory study using the constant comparative analysis method recommended by Corbin 2014 . Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 25 individuals who had expertise or experience in managing biological emergencies. Purposive following by theoretical sampling was employed based on theoretical saturation. Data collection occurred between April and November 2023, MAXQDA software (2020) was used to help with the analysis .
Results: After several rounds of data analysis and summarization, considering similarities and differences, four main categories and 14 subcategories were extracted from the data. The main categories were grouped into 1) lack of a comprehensive risk communication plan, 2) mismanagement of patient flow, 3) political and governance challenges, and 4) inadequate resource management.
Conclusion : This study highlighted Iran’s Health care systems' challenges in managing affected people in biological emergencies. Key issues included mismanagement of patient flow. Addressing these challenges is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness and sustainability of Iran’s Health care system. Further investigation is recommended to provide practical Strategies in dealing with biological emergencies in the future.
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