Surveying the Attitude of Family Physicians Working in Health Centers of Tehran University of Medical Sciences towards their Profession Using a Qualitative Approach

Abstract Family physician plan is a form of health care delivery system which its correct implementation results in health promotion. Being aware of family physicians’ viewpoints towards their occupation would play an important role in its better implementation. The present study aims to to investigate family physicians` attitude who are working in health centers affiliated with Tehran University of Medical Sciences towards their profession. This qualitative study was conducted in 2011. In order to reach information saturation، the data were collected by performing two singular interviews and four focus group discussions among all 33 physicians working at health care centers of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Eventually، data were analyzed using conceptual framework method. Data analysis indicated three general concepts. The first issue is the factors that encourage physicians to choose family physician profession and continue doing it (including economical، cultural and environmental factors and work conditions). The second one is the study challenges (including preparation to implement the plan، work conditions and professional limits) and the final one is the reforms needed for its correct and proper implementation (in policy making and administrative level). Regarding the issue that economical، cultural and environmental factors and work atmosphere have the main role in motivating family physicians، the most important challenges the plan confronts are also related to these factors and major and minor reforms are needed to overcome these challenges. Moreover preparing society’s culture would surely result in better implementation of the plan.