Health System Reform Plan and Performance of Hospitals: an Iranian Case Study

Background: Health system reform is essential to make desired Changes. In Iran, first phase of Health Reform Plan (HRP) was implemented in hospitals affiliated with Ministry of Health and Medical Education (MHME) in 2014. Aim: The present study was carried out to evaluate the performance of hospitals affiliated with Urmia University of Medical Sciences at the time of the implementation of HRP. Methods: This cross-sectional study carried out in two stages, before (2012- 2013) and during (2014- 2015) implementation of the HRP in district and teaching hospitals. Data collection and evaluation of performance of hospitals was performed using indices issued by MHME using graphical and statistical analysis. Results: Average bed occupancy rate and bed turnover rate increased and the average length of stay decreased in the majority of hospitals during the study period. The highest and lowest bed occupancy rate was observed in district hospitals. All hospitals were shifted toward the third zone in Pabon Lasso (PL) diagram. Conclusion: This study confirmed that the implementation of the defined package of HRP in hospitals affiliated with UUMS resulted in increased admissions and hospitalization and improved performance.