Health information technologies in Iran: Opportunities for development.

Abstract

Background: Health information technologies (HIT) have some benefits and may have some potentially negative impacts. Therefore, it is difficult to plan for future health information technologies. This study aimed to investigate the key and non-key health information technologies which could be considered for the future strategy development in Iran. Methods: In this study, experts and policymakers in the field of health information technology were invited to take part in a qualitative study. Purposive sampling was used to select the most informant people, and 13 interviews were conducted. The method of framework analysis was used to analyze data. Results: The four main themes emerged from data analysis were 1) immediate, cheap, stable, and secure access to the health records of the society, 2) equitable access to health care resources and services, 3) knowledge management in healthcare services, and 4) governmental/central electronic services for the health system. To cover the mentioned areas, a number of key and non-key technologies were discussed by the interviewees. Conclusion: In this study, a number of key and non-key health information technologies were recognized. While the findings can help policymakers to pay more attention to the key technologies to improve healthcare delivery, these technologies need to be prioritized in terms of their importance for the country.