The first module of the capacity building course for hospital managers, focusing on "Governance and Leadership in the Health System," commenced on September 24, 2025, at the Iran University of Medical Sciences. This two-day course is designed to enhance the knowledge and management skills of hospital administrators, ultimately improving patient care quality.

The opening ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Dr. Nader Tavakoli, President of Iran University of Medical Sciences; Dr. Javanmard, Director of the Center for Management Development and Administrative Transformation of the Ministry of Health; Dr. Ramzi, Director General of Human Resources of the Ministry of Health; Dr. Peyman Namdar, Vice President for Management Development and Resource Planning; and Dr. Mehdi Jafari Sirizi, Director of the Higher Institute for Development and Training of Health System Managers.

 Key Insights from the Ceremony

Dr. Nader Tavakoli emphasized the importance of empowering hospital managers and enhancing productivity within the health system. He highlighted the historical context of hospital management training since 2014, noting that gaps in human resources and management emerged following the health transformation plan. Dr. Tavakoli also discussed the establishment of an independent hospital administration model, piloted by the Iran University of Medical Sciences, which aims to streamline operations and improve governance.

Dr. Ramzi stressed the significance of respecting employees as a cornerstone of effective management. He asserted that strategic and visionary leadership is essential for the successful implementation of health initiatives and emphasized the need for a supportive work environment that fosters employee engagement and satisfaction.

Dr. Peyman Namdar referred to hospital managers as the "beating heart" of the health system, underscoring their critical role in service delivery and the direct correlation between management quality and public health outcomes. He viewed the course as a strategic initiative to foster a coherent model for hospital management, rooted in evidence-based practices.

Dr. Javanmard highlighted the necessity of continuous education in hospital management, outlining essential skills such as leadership, communication, human resource management, and strategic planning. He also pointed to the need for digital transformation within hospitals to enhance productivity and service quality.

The capacity building course for hospital managers will consist of eight modules, with the first module on "Governance and Leadership in the Health System" currently underway. The program aims to equip hospital leaders with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of health management and improve overall service delivery. The collaborative efforts of the university and the Ministry of Health reflect a commitment to advancing healthcare management in Iran.