Title: Health Minister Underscores Health Literacy as a Cornerstone of National Prevention Strategy
Introduction
In a recent address to health system managers and activists, Iran’s Minister of Health and Medical Education, Dr. Mohammadreza Zafarghandi, highlighted the critical role of public health literacy and strategic planning in preventing non-communicable diseases and strengthening the nation’s healthcare framework.
Celebrating Progress, Addressing Challenges
Dr. Zafarghandi began by reviewing the significant expansion of medical education in Iran, using the University of Medical Sciences in Yazd as a prime example. He noted that what began decades ago with approximately 30 students has now grown into a major institution serving over 6,000 students and providing extensive services to the community.
While acknowledging the “positive trajectory” of the country’s health sector achievements, the Minister called for their continued reinforcement. He pointed to specific challenges, particularly within the human resources sector, that require coordinated efforts between the Islamic Consultative Assembly (Parliament) and the Ministry of Health to resolve effectively.
A Balanced Approach to Wages and Tariffs
Addressing policies on wage compensation within the health sector, Dr. Zafarghandi affirmed a serious commitment to reforming and improving salaries. He emphasized, however, that the government’s approach is rational and based on maintaining a crucial balance. The strategy aims to both retain active medical personnel and observe the financial health of the state.
Regarding medical tariffs, the Minister clarified that increases over the past nine years have ranged from zero to a maximum of 20 percent, never exceeding the rate of inflation. He stated that while the government has accepted the principle of compensating for past arrears, this compensation must be implemented gradually.
The Imperative of Health Education and Prevention
Dr. Zafarghandi firmly stated that “education without discipline is impossible,” especially in a field where the slightest negligence, given stringent safety standards, could endanger public health. He framed the medical profession as a “social responsibility,” championing a community-based and responsibility-focused model of care.
A central pillar of this preventive strategy is the elevation of public health literacy. The Minister positioned it as an essential tool for preventing diseases, including through the reduction of road accidents and controlling air pollution—factors he cited as claiming tens of thousands of lives annually.
Citing provincial data, he noted that Yazd ranks among the top three provinces for high cholesterol and leads the country in physical inactivity, a major risk factor for numerous diseases. He expressed confidence that through educational planning and collaboration with scientific associations and other institutions, this trend can be corrected.
Crucially, the Minister highlighted that enhanced health literacy is an effective shield even against serious illnesses like cancer, aiding in both prevention and early detection, a claim supported by research in the field.
Future Initiatives: Family Physician and Community Focus
Concluding his address, Dr. Zafarghandi announced that the Ministry of Health is pursuing the Family Physician plan. Reiterating the necessity of focusing on population policies, he outlined that an effective strategy involves concentrating on neighborhood-based activities and strengthening services at the local community level.
