Challenges of establishing the health-promoting hospitals (HPH) approach in Kerman

Health-promoting hospitals (HPH) do not only play the traditional role of diagnosis and treatment but also focus on preventive and health-promoting activities. The present study aimed to explore the challenges of establishing the health-promoting hospitals approach.

The present study was conducted using a qualitative design in 2018. The data in this study were collected using 16 semi-structured interviews conducted with health managers and experts in Kerman, Iran. The interviewees were selected through purposive snowball sampling. The interviews were first transcribed and analyzed using Braun and Clarke's 6-step thematic analysis framework. MAXQDA 10 software was used for data analysis.

The challenges of establishing health-promoting hospital standards were divided into 4 themes including legal and structural challenges, financial resources, human resources, and cultural challenges. The most recurring subthemes were the lack of general plans and policies and the lack of financial resources.

Challenges of establishing the HPH approach can be summarized in various areas related to the organization and policies, staff, and society. Therefore, is necessary to change the traditional approach to treatment-oriented policies at all levels. Besides, it is essential to focus on the empowerment and participation of all people involved in health-promoting policies and activities such as managers and officials, employees, and members of the community.