Development of the Iranian provinces in health indices using Morris Model and linear TOPSIS method

Background: Health is a central pillar of sustainable development and an inseparable part of the prosperity and improved quality of life. Protecting and promoting public health is necessity for every action to be considered in socio-economic planning. Providing appropriate facilities for physical, psychological, social and spiritual health in all stages of life is a basic to human rights and needs. This article aims to determine the distribution and availability of health services in all Iran provinces.

Methods: In this descriptive-analytic study, a total of 14 institutional and specialized variables were used. To explain the indicators using Excel and SPSS software, linear TOPSIS method and Human Development Index were used.

Results: At national level, 13 provinces were haves, 5 semi-haves and 13 other provinces have-nots. The research results show that distribution of facilities and health services followed the center –periphery theory. Often, the central provinces are haves and marginal provinces are have-nots. Conclusion: In order to improve the health indicators, the government should review the distribution manner of medical and health services. To this end, the priority should be given to development of clinics, revision of distribution of general surgeon, pediatrician, internist and pharmacist. Most of the provinces had limitations in this regard.