Developing a participatory health policy model at the local level: A case study in Miandoab city

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Today, the participation of local levels in the health policy process is emphasized, which can be a means to solve the problems of communities and help the health system to achieve its goals. Objective: The aim of this study was to design a participatory health policy model at the local level in Miandoab city. Methods and Materials: The present study was a multidisciplinary study that was conducted in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, using systematic review, qualitative and Delphi research methods. There were 16 participants in the qualitative phase who were selected by purposive sampling. Data were collected in a qualitative study using a semi-structured interview method. Also, the elements and components of the original model were provided to experts in the field through Delphi for approval and validation to obtain the final model. The method of data analysis in systematic review and qualitative phase was content analysis study and in Delphi study was using descriptive statistics. Results: In a systematic review after screening studies, 21 studies entered the analysis phase. The results of data analysis (systematic review, qualitative study and Delphi study) identified and confirmed the influencing factors, facilitators and barriers, challenges, advantages and disadvantages of local level participation in the policy-making process. The analysis of systematic review showed that the influential factors for participation include individual, environmental and contextual factors. Finally, the model of participation of nursing managers was validated and finalized using the perspective of experts. Conclusion: Participation in the health policy process requires the use of facilitators and the removal of barriers. Local levels in terms of health issues in Iran are involved in complex and diverse issues that can be solved with the help of local levels themselves.