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Comment
. 2024 Dec 31;17(1):2370095.
doi: 10.1080/16549716.2024.2370095. Epub 2024 Jul 12.

Analysis of Iranian health workforce emigration based on a system dynamics approach: a study protocol

Hamideh Keyvani  1 , Reza Majdzadeh  2 , Esmaeil Khedmati Morasae  3 , Leila Doshmangir  4
Affiliations
Comment

Analysis of Iranian health workforce emigration based on a system dynamics approach: a study protocol

Hamideh Keyvani et al. Glob Health Action. .

Abstract

Background: Emigration of health workers has emerged as a significant obstacle in Iran, compelling policymakers to implement a diverse range of interventions and reforms to enhance healthcare services. It is imperative to comprehend the efficacy of emigration control interventions. To explore the intricate dynamics of elite emigration, this study employs a system dynamics modeling approach. The objective is to scrutinize Iranian health workers' emigration, examine the relationships, and evaluate the impact of various factors involved.

Objectives: The general purpose of this study is to analyze the policy interventions affecting the emigration of human resources in the field of health in Iran based on the system's dynamic approach.

Method: The research consists of four phases including analyzing the emigration status of health workers in developing countries, studying health personnel emigration in Iran, developing a System Dynamics (SD) model, and determining evidence-based policy interventions to address health worker emigration. These phases involve realist review, document analysis, qualitative interviews, data integration, and policy scenario planning. The primary objective is to gain a profound understanding of the underlying causes, mechanisms, and consequences of migration, as well as assess the impact of policies, in order to prioritize effective interventions.

Results: It seems that the SD model developed in this study can highlight the interconnectedness of various factors that influence health worker emigration, including demographic changes, economic conditions, and characteristics of healthcare systems.

Conclusion: This study uses a systems dynamics approach to analyze health worker emigration from Iran, focusing on policies that promote retention and explore the implications of emigration on the healthcare system. By examining interrelationships and feedback loops within the healthcare system and socioeconomic factors, the study aims to identify effective policy interventions that can mitigate the negative effects of emigration.

Keywords: Emigration; health human resources; health worker; policy analysis; system dynamics.

Plain language summary

Main findings: The study reveals a complex web of factors driving the emigration of Iranian health workers, and along with the Investigating the effectiveness of different interventions, the aim of this research is to develop sustainable solutions to deal with the emigration of health workers.Added knowledge: This research adds to the existing literature by employing a system dynamics approach to model the multifaceted nature of health workforce emigration in Iran, offering a novel perspective on policy intervention analysis.Global health impact for policy and action: The findings underscore the necessity for comprehensive policy strategies that address the root causes of health worker emigration and can inform global efforts to retain healthcare professionals and ensure sustainable healthcare systems.

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Conflict of interest statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Overview of a system dynamics modeling approach.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
A hypothetical causal loop diagram used to demonstrate the dynamics of a system components.
Figure 3.
Figure 3.
Minimal stock-and-flow diagram (SFD).
Figure 4.
Figure 4.
Closed-loop stock-and-flow diagram (SFD).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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