The President of the Iranian Pediatric Association emphasized the need to reform certain healthcare policies and called for a reassessment of physician training, stronger incentives for medical practice in underserved regions, and greater utilization of scientific associations to help reduce healthcare costs.
According to the Public Relations Office of the Iranian Pediatric Association, a meeting of the Association’s Board of Directors was held on Thursday, April 30, with the participation of Dr. Afjei, President of the Breastfeeding Promotion Association. Various issues related to child health, healthcare policies, and healthcare cost management were discussed during the meeting.
Speaking at the session, Dr. Ali Rabbani, President of the Iranian Pediatric Association, highlighted the need to review certain healthcare policies and stated: “To ensure more efficient use of the country’s resources, it is recommended that the Ministry of Health undertake a serious reassessment of physician education at all levels and plan the development of the healthcare workforce according to the country’s actual needs.”
He added that the medical community believes more favorable conditions should be created for physicians working in smaller cities and underserved areas. Financial incentives and adequate welfare facilities, he noted, could help improve physician retention in these regions.
Referring to the migration of some physicians to neighboring countries, Dr. Rabbani stated: “If appropriate professional and living conditions are not provided, a portion of our skilled healthcare workforce will continue to be attracted to opportunities abroad.”
Dr. Rabbani also expressed concern about the increasing use of infant formula in the country and said: “Through collaboration between the Breastfeeding Promotion Association and pediatric specialists, the culture of breastfeeding can be strengthened further. This not only improves infant health outcomes but also contributes to reducing healthcare expenditures from an economic perspective.”
He further criticized certain medical tariffs, stating that unrealistic and disproportionate reimbursement rates may encourage inappropriate practices in prescribing medications and ordering unnecessary diagnostic services.
The President of the Iranian Pediatric Association emphasized that one of the key responsibilities of scientific associations is to engage with healthcare professionals, communicate through the media, and enhance public awareness regarding rational and evidence-based medical treatments.
He added that many common childhood illnesses, such as uncomplicated colds, do not require intravenous fluids or injections and can be effectively managed with routine care and simple medications.
Referring to ongoing initiatives aimed at controlling healthcare costs, Dr. Rabbani stated: “We are on the verge of implementing activities that will contribute to greater efficiency and cost savings within the healthcare system. We consider the use of scientific associations’ expertise by policymakers to be a highly positive and effective approach.”
