Journal of Isfahan Medical School

Journal of Isfahan Medical School

Designing a Meta-Accreditation System for Iranian Medical Education Accreditation Institutions: Necessity, Challenges, and Policy Solutions

Document Type : policy brief

Authors
1 Professor, Department of Medical Education, Educational Development Center, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2 PhD in Medical Education, Department of Medical Education, Educational Development Center, Medical Education Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3 Professor of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Health Professions Education Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
4 Doctor of Philosophy, Researcher at Foundation for Advancement of International Medical Education and Research, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
10.48305/jims.v44.i856.0446
Abstract
This document was developed based on the findings of a mixed study that aimed to design and explain a national meta-accreditation system in the field of medical education in Iran. The study findings showed that the designed model has significant compliance with internationally recognized frameworks, including CHEA, INQAAHE, WFME, ENQA, APQN, and HAQAA, but its governmental structure, compared to global non-governmental or semi-independent models, faces fundamental challenges such as conflict of interest, limitations in professional independence, and reduced international acceptance. However, this structure allows for faster implementation in the current Iranian conditions due to the lack of capable non-governmental institutions and the centralized structure in the Ministry of Health. This document emphasizes that a gradual move towards a semi-autonomous model, while maintaining the role of government policy-making and the participation of specialized institutions and scientific associations, can create a balance between existing structural realities and professional and global aspirations. In this direction, the development of the necessary legal framework, capacity building in civil society institutions, increasing transparency and interaction with international institutions are considered to be the main priorities. The meta-accreditation system is a monitoring tool and a factor for improving quality, accountability and trust in the higher health education system, and its success depends on choosing a realistic, participatory and forward-looking path.

Highlights

Nikoo Yamani: Google Scholar

Tahereh Changiz: Google Scholar

Azim Mirzazadeh: Google Scholar

Keywords
Subjects

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Volume 44, Issue 856
4th Week, May (Policy Brief)
May and June 2026
Pages 446-451

  • Receive Date 26 December 2025
  • Accept Date 28 December 2025