Document Type : Original Article
Authors
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) as entities out of the health sector can
play various roles and functions at different levels of the health systems. The present study was
conducted to investigate NGOs’ potential and actual functions in Iran’s health system.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This exploratory study was carried out in two parts from April 2020
to December 2020 in Tehran, Iran. For the first part, the statute of 65 NGOs was used for document
review, and in the second part, the required data were collected using semi‑structured interviews
with 26 key informants from the governmental sector and NGOs. Data were analyzed using the
framework analysis method and MAXQDA software.
RESULTS: According to data analysis, the results of this study were classified into two sections
of NGOs’ current functions and expected functions in Iran’s health system. The current functions
of NGOs in Iran’s health system include service delivery, educational, research, and information
activities, financing, supportive and facilitation activities, and advocacy. Other functions in which
NGOs could play a role include health system management, education, and service providing and
support activities.
CONCLUSION: In this study, the various roles of NGOs in Iran’s health system were explained.
NGOs can act actively as the consulting and executive hand alongside the public sector in the lowest
to the highest levels of Iran’s health system. Hence, health sector managers and policymakers must
facilitate NGOs’ involvement in the health sector and use their capacities and capabilities to improve
health and increase public access to health‑care services.
Keywords
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