WHO Regional Director visits Islamic Republic of Iran to discuss health challenges and …
25 April 2024, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran – Dr Hanan Balkhy concluded her first official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran as the new WHO Regional Director for the Eastern Mediterranean, which took place on 12–15 April. She met with officials and partners to discuss WHO’s work on the ground and how to strengthen collaborations and strategic initiatives to meet health needs.
The Regional Director’s visit began in the historic city of Isfahan, where she visited Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and met with Chancellor Dr Shahin Shirani, who also heads the Isfahan Academy of Medical Sciences. She also met with faculty members of the university and other Ministry of Health and Medical Education officials. Said Dr Balkhy: “It’s impressive to see how a quality integrated medical education has played a role in improving health services in the country, leading to higher life expectancy, lower mortality rates and wider vaccination coverage.”
With over 800 research centres, the Islamic Republic of Iran has made great efforts to expand its research capacity. Dr Balkhy visited Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute, one of 16 WHO collaborating centres in the country. The institute focuses on research, training and patient rehabilitation in the area of cardiovascular diseases. The country’s investment in evidence generation is building a knowledge base for the health workforce and