Challenge Non-Communicable Diseases Programs in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Abstract Background One of the effective strategies to prevent and control Non- communicable diseases risk factors is to identify priorities and problems of Non-communicable programs. this study was conducted to identify the challenges of non-communicable diseases programs in order to improve programs development. Methods This study was a qualitative study which was carried out in 5 universities of medical sciences and the Ministry of Health in 2019 year. The sampling method was purposive and the participants include specialists in the field of NCD who have executive and research experience in this field. Data were collected through 40 individual interviews with health professionals and care providers. Data were analyzed by content analysis using CIPP model. Results In the present study, problems of non-communicable disease programs were identified in 4 main categories, 12 sub-categories including inadequate participation of all levels of service delivery in program development, needs assessment, budget allocation, data and program evaluation system. Conclusions Some problems of non-communicable diseases programs included inadequacy of needs assessment, lack of prioritization based on local and regional conditions, program evaluation system. Paying attention to the mentioned points will help to solve underlying problems and improve the processes of developing, implementing and evaluating programs.