Iran has launched the third phase of its Family Physician Program and referral system in 19 cities, aiming to improve healthcare access and strengthen medical services. Health officials said the expansion will create a more organized treatment pathway and improve coordination between patients and healthcare providers.
Alireza Raeisi, a Health Ministry official, announced the launch on Tuesday. He said the program focuses on improving referral procedures and making medical services easier to access. Moreover, Raeisi described the initiative as a key part of Iran’s healthcare development strategy. He added that successful implementation remains important for improving the national health system.
Raeisi noted that more than 100 countries have introduced similar healthcare models. However, he explained that full implementation requires long-term planning, public awareness, and continuous supervision. Therefore, officials are expanding the program gradually to ensure better results. He said current progress shows positive signs despite the challenges of healthcare reform.
The new phase includes cities such as Firouzabad, Jahrom, Larestan, Fasa, and Jouybar. These areas previously participated in earlier stages of the program. Consequently, officials expect past experience to help improve efficiency and service quality. They also plan to use previous lessons to strengthen the current expansion.
Raeisi said earlier difficulties in Fars and Mazandaran provinces resulted from implementation problems. He emphasized that the healthcare model itself remained effective. Therefore, authorities are focusing on better planning, monitoring, and coordination. Medical universities and healthcare managers will continue reviewing progress and collecting feedback.
Iran introduced the rural Family Physician Program in 2005. Initially, the program targeted villages and towns with fewer than 20,000 residents. Since then, it has expanded as a major part of the country’s primary healthcare network.
The program provides medical consultations, dental services, mental health support, nutrition guidance, laboratory services, pharmacy assistance, and medical imaging. Additionally, physicians monitor patients through regular examinations and follow-up care.
Health Minister Mohammad-Reza Zafarqandi said the government plans to expand the program nationwide. He highlighted the need for cooperation between the Health Ministry, provincial authorities, and other institutions. Furthermore, officials support creating a national management structure to supervise the program’s future development and ensure effective implementation.