An analysis of network governance theories with an emphasis on the requirements and challenges of the health system of Iran

The present study aimed to analyze the network governance theories with an emphasis on the requirements and challenges of the health system in Iran according to theoretical principles and studies, as well as formulating the network governance model of the health system of Iran after interviewing experts. The research was applied in terms of purpose, and qualitative in terms of method. Since the research was exploratory in terms of purpose, the use of grounded theory was the main strategy in applying the research. Taking notes was initially performed using the study of theoretical principles and research background, and then the final dimensions, components, and indices for the network governance model of Iran’s health system were identified and determined by classification and tabulation, the semi-structured interviews with experts, obtaining the necessary agreement, and then analyzing the data using the MAXQDA software. According to the analysis of previous studies, interviews with 15 experts, analysis of data, removing duplicate codes and categories, and integrating similar codes and categories, 767 key points, 53 abstract concepts, 18 sub-categories, and finally, 6 main categories were extracted as mentioned below: External effective categories with 2 sub-categories; predictive factors with 4 subcategories; contextual factors with 3 subcategories; elements with 3 subcategories; functions with 3 subcategories, and the results of implementing the network governance model in the health system with 3 subcategories. According to the results, the health system is a multifaceted and complex phenomenon, and a set of strategies must be implemented for its improvement. The effective implementation of the presented strategies can have many consequences, the most important of which is the society and citizens’ health promotion. The research results are presented in a model with the main predictive categories, internal effective categories, elements, contextual categories, functions, results, and consequences.