Nationwide Implementation of “Family Physician” Program Begins, Covering 30 Million Iranians in First Phase
With the launch of the first phase of the “Family Physician” program in Iran, approximately 30 million residents of rural areas and towns with populations under 20,000 will soon be covered by the initiative. According to the Deputy Minister of Health, specialized committees and medical universities are preparing the groundwork for the program’s implementation, and it is hoped that with proper budget allocation, the program will continue sustainably.
Nationwide Rollout of “Family Physician” Program Begins with 30 Million Covered in Initial Phase
According to Salamat News,the national “Family Physician” program—one of the key strategies of the Iranian healthcare system for improving basic healthcare services—has now entered the implementation phase. Dr. Alireza Raisi, Deputy Minister of Health, stated that the program is progressing well, and expert committees have been formed for its execution.
He said, “Medical universities across the country have shown strong cooperation, and many are ready to implement the program.”
Initial Phase to Cover 30 Million People
According to the Ministry of Health, the first phase of the Family Physician program will focus on rural communities and towns with populations under 20,000. As a result, nearly 30 million Iranians will receive coverage in this phase. The program aims to provide healthcare services through a transparent and efficient referral system, making these services accessible to underserved regions.
30 Trillion Toman Budget Awaiting Allocation
Dr. Raisi added, “A budget of 30 trillion tomans has been allocated for the implementation of the Family Physician program. We hope that the Planning and Budget Organization will release this funding to ensure a stable and continuous rollout of the program.”
He emphasized that allocating this budget is a crucial step in stabilizing and expanding the initiative.
Gradual Implementation Based on Pilot Programs
Dr. Mohammadreza Zafarghandi, the Minister of Health, had previously stated: “Implementing this program marks a major transformation in the country’s healthcare system. Its pilot phases began in July of this year in select locations. The program will expand gradually and eventually cover the entire country.”
He also noted that the plan is being executed based on detailed reviews and experiences to avoid implementation issues and to establish an effective referral system.
Why Is the Family Physician Program Important?
- Ensures more equitable access to healthcare in underserved areas
- Reduces unnecessary visits to specialists, saving healthcare system resources
- Focuses on prevention and continuous care rather than just treatment
- Improves follow-up on chronic diseases, health literacy, and public satisfaction
The “Family Physician” program, aiming to transform the national healthcare system, is now being implemented step-by-step. With infrastructure preparation and proper funding, this initiative could pave the way for health equity and improved healthcare efficiency—starting from the country’s most deprived regions.
