Mahdi Nasiri, the CEO of the Iranian Health Insurance Organization, announced the continuation of insurance services for rural residents and the digital transformation programs of this organization during a press conference held on the occasion of Health Insurance Week. This meeting took place amid ongoing financial challenges and resource shortages facing the Health Insurance Organization.
Continuation of Insurance Coverage for Rural Residents
Nasiri emphasized that free insurance for rural residents continues, stating: "In recent months, there have been interruptions in the insurance coverage process for some income brackets, but these issues have been resolved, and people should not worry." He highlighted the insurance coverage for 45 million people from various segments of society and stressed the importance of maintaining basic insurance for all.
Financial Challenges and Solutions
The CEO of the Iranian Health Insurance Organization also addressed the financial problems of this organization, stating: "The actual costs of the organization are significantly higher than the monthly payments, and currently, more than 8 trillion tomans are distributed monthly among contracted institutions." Nasiri explained that despite the efforts made, securing financial resources to settle past debts has not yet been achieved.
He added: "Part of the resources planned for settling debts, including shares worth 85 trillion tomans, has not yet been secured, and this issue directly impacts the payment of claims of institutions." Nasiri expressed hope for the realization of these resources and a reduction of financial pressure on doctors and healthcare institutions.
Digital Transformation and Smart Services
The CEO of the Iranian Health Insurance Organization further mentioned the organization's actions in the field of digital transformation, saying: "Moving towards smart services and implementing electronic prescriptions are among our programs." He emphasized the importance of completing the electronic service chain, adding: "The development of these infrastructures can help improve access to information and oversight of insurance processes."
Insurance Coverage for Dental Services
Nasiri also announced the approval of increased insurance coverage for dental services, stating: "According to the decisions of the Supreme Health Insurance Council, insurance coverage for some dental services is projected to be up to 70 percent." Details of the covered services are being pursued, and the aim of these decisions is to facilitate access to dental services for various segments of society.
Support for Specialized Organ Transplant Services
He further referred to Iran's position in the field of organ transplants, stating: "Our country has valuable specialized capacities in this area." Nasiri also announced the approval of increased insurance support for heart transplant services, adding: "This decision is particularly important regarding heart transplants for children, and our goal is to strengthen insurance support for these specialized services."
Finally, Nasiri assured that the health insurance systems remain stable even in conditions of slow internet, stating that information technology issues will not affect service delivery and that paper prescriptions will still be accepted.
