Comparative Investigation of Health Information Networks in Iran and Three Selected Countries: A Review Study

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

1 MSc Student, Department of Medical Informatics, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran

2 MSc, Department of Medical Informatics, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Medical Informatics, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Applied Biomedical Research Center, Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

10.22038/nnj.2025.90150.1507

Abstract

Background and Aims: Health Information Networks (HINs) and data-related technologies play a vital role in modern healthcare systems. However, the level of development and maturity of these technologies varies across countries. Iran has made efforts in this area but still faces significant challenges. This article aimed to compare Iran’s health information system with three countries of varying income levels.
 Materials and Methods: This is a comparative review study. Relevant information was collected and analyzed through a systematic review of selected scientific articles and official documents related to HINs and data technologies in Ethiopia (low income), China (middle income), and the United Kingdom (high income).
Results: The results highlight significant differences in policy-making, infrastructure, adopted technologies, and systemic challenges across the four countries. Iran is developing national infrastructures such as the SEPAS Electronic Health Record system but struggles with issues like incomplete integration and low data quality. Ethiopia faces severe resource limitations, China has made major investments but encounters standardization challenges, and the UK, despite its long-standing experience, still deals with integrating its national systems.
Conclusion: The comparative analysis shows that national income level, policy strategies, and the extent of technological emphasis (such as EHR implementation) influence the development of health information systems. Lessons learned for Iran include the importance of a comprehensive national strategy, investments in infrastructure and human resources, adopting user-centered approaches, and establishing continuous performance evaluation mechanisms.

Keywords

References

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Navid No
Volume 28, Issue 96
March 2026
Pages 76-87

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