Developing Iranian sub-national Primary Health Care Measurement Framework: a study protocol

BACKGROUND: Developing an effective system for measurement and improvement of primary health care (PHC) based on the conditions and characteristics of the countries’ health systems is one of the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations. AIMS: This study will aim to develop a framework to assess the Iranian sub-national PHC system performance using the WHO measurement framework for PHC. METHODS/DESIGNS: This is a mix-method study with a triangulation design. The Iranian sub-national PHC Measurement Framework (PHCMF) will be developed through a review of the WHO’s PHC measurement conceptual framework (for selecting key performance indicators (KPIs)), literature review (academic database), PHC-related national documents, consultations with national experts, and the Delphi technique for finalizing the framework. The required data for calculating selected KPIs is expected to encompass qualitative and quantitative data. Discussion: Iranian PHC system performance is not measured based on the holistic and scientific framework and international standards. The information obtained from this project will guide managers and policymakers to be aware of the current situation and the success rate of the PHC system in achieving the desired goals, as well as identify strengths and weaknesses of the PHC system and provide the solution to better policy formulation.