Diagnosis, Prevention, and Control of Hypertension in Iran: A SWOT Analysis

Masoumeh Gholizadeh; Ali Janati; Rahim Khodayari-Zarnaq; Mohammad Zakaria Pezeshki; Fateme Arabi Basharic; Noora Rafiee

doi:10.18502/htaa.v6i2.12202

Masoumeh Gholizadeh Department of Management and Health Policy, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Ali Janati Department of Management and Health Policy, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Rahim Khodayari-Zarnaq Department of Management and Health Policy, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Mohammad Zakaria Pezeshki Department of Community and Family Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Health Management and Safety Promotion Research Institute, Tabriz Medical School, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Fateme Arabi Basharic Department of Management and Health Policy, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Noora Rafiee Student Research Committee, Department of Health Management, Policy and Economics, School of Management and Medical Informatics, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/htaa.v6i2.12202

Keywords: Hypertension; Prevention; SWOT Analysis; Policy; Health Services

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is one of the most important risk factors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality that holds a unique place in population health and health care.

Objectives: Given the exponential rise of high blood pressure as one of the major health problems, this study aimed to investigate the current situation and provide a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis in the management of hypertension

Methods: A qualitative study of 12 interviews was conducted with policymakers and managers. The sampling method was purposive sampling. Data collection was performed from January to July 2020. A thematic approach was used to analyze the data. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research 32-item (COREQ-32) checklist was applied to ensure quality control in the study design, analysis, and data reporting.

Results: A total of 12 factors were identified as SWOT. The most important strengths included universal coverage of health services, provision of team-based care, and self-care training. The weaknesses were related to the therapeutic approach, long-term planning, and continuity of programs. Cooperation of other sectors with the health system and the existence of health management training centers were noted as opportunities to better implement hypertension management programs and confront threats such as conflicts of interest between guilds and organizations and crises.

Conclusions: High blood pressure can be prevented. The present direction toward health-oriented policies can be changed in all sectors by taking advantage of the existing strengths and opportunities.