Creating the Action Model for High Risk Infant Follow Up Program in Iran

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Public health
• Health equity

Background:

• Early childhood development interventions are crucial social determinants of health, reducing social gaps.
• Despite advances in neonatal intensive care and falling mortality rates, Iran lacks a follow-up program for high-risk infants.
• This study addresses the need for a national model for high-risk infant follow-up care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design a comprehensive follow-up care program for high-risk infants in Iran.
• To establish a national model for high-risk infant care, aiming to reduce health inequities.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study conducted by Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
• International documents were reviewed, followed by focus group discussions and Delphi technique for consensus.
• An evidence-based draft was developed and finalized through 14 expert panel sessions.

Main Results:

• A high-risk infant follow-up care service package was finalized.
• The package includes evidence-based clinical guidelines (18 main, 13 subsidiary) and an executive plan (17 processes).
• An education program for caregivers, follow-up teams, and families was designed.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive high-risk infant follow-up care service package has been successfully designed and finalized.
• The developed program provides a framework for nationwide implementation to improve infant health outcomes.