Increase in Medical Equipment Foreign Exchange Allocation / Gradual Price Adjustments Based on Scientific Evidence
Dr. Mehdi Pirsalehi, Deputy Minister of Health and Head of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), announced that increasing the allocation of foreign currency for medical equipment and gradually adjusting prices based on scientific evidence and insurance capacities will help ensure a stable supply chain and improve healthcare services in the country.
Speaking at a meeting with medical equipment and supplies stakeholders in Khorasan Razavi, Dr. Pirsalehi highlighted the importance of close collaboration with domestic manufacturers to maintain a stable supply of medicines and medical equipment. He said, “Although price adjustments are inevitable, this process will be carried out solely based on insurance capabilities and documented evidence. The primary goal is to support patients and maintain the quality of healthcare services.”
Moving Towards Stability in the Pharmaceutical and Medical Equipment Market
The FDA head also referred to ongoing efforts to reduce the debts of universities and hospitals, noting: “With the allocation of resources from the National Development Fund, parliamentary support, and careful planning by the Ministry of Health, payment processes have been facilitated, and debt settlements are accelerating.”
He added that parity in payments and currency allocation between medicines and medical equipment is being ensured. Additionally, 10% of foreign currency resources have been allocated to therapeutic infant formulas to guarantee patient access to these essential products.
Price Adjustments Based on Scientific Logic, Not Economic Pressure
Dr. Pirsalehi emphasized that the FDA maintains a supportive and realistic approach toward domestic production: “Manufacturers are encouraged to operate with a minimum reasonable profit. This cooperation ensures that the production cycle continues uninterrupted and that high-quality healthcare services remain accessible to the public.”
He also noted that alongside price adjustments, plans are underway to monetize government bonds and manage strategic reserves to ensure uninterrupted supply of critical items.
Emphasis on Stakeholder Engagement and Transparency
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Pirsalehi stressed the importance of hearing industry voices and engaging professional associations: “Through close cooperation among the FDA, manufacturers, banks, parliament, and other stakeholders, the country’s pharmaceutical and medical equipment system can become more modern, agile, and responsive. Legal support measures are also being pursued to facilitate this process.”
The FDA chief’s statements underscore key policy directions, including increased foreign currency allocation for medical equipment, gradual and evidence-based price adjustments, and enhanced collaboration with the private sector—signaling that the national healthcare system is moving toward stability, equity, and improved quality.
