A conceptual framework to incorporate fundamental values in the health and medical education system in Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Background: A 1985 law in the Islamic Republic of Iran integrated all health-related educational institutions into the Ministry of Health and established the Ministry of Health and Medical Education to set policies. Aims: We aimed to classify the value concept of the policies that prioritized and to develop a conceptual value-based framework, for the Islamic Republic of Iran’s healthcare and medical education systems. Methods: We conducted this qualitative study using a critical, thematic content analysis of value-based statements and policy documents on health and the development of medical education published from 2009 to 2019 in the Islamic Republic of Iran. A total of 210 documents were reviewed and 7 were critically analysed. Value concepts were identified and coded. Results: A total of 69 value concepts were classified into 28 subthemes and 5 main themes: mission values, principal values, procedural values, implementation values, and outcome values. We identified the pattern of the fundamental values to present our conceptual framework. Conclusion: This comprehensive value-based framework can help establish a supportive value-based culture among policymakers, identify under- and over-emphasized issues, and enhance the incorporation of fundamental values across the health and medical education system.