Identifying the Challenges of Tehran's Health Tourism Network with a Network Management Approach

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD. Candidate in Tourism, Faculty of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Faculty of Tourism, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Context and Purpose: Health tourism, a prominent subset of the tourism industry, has economic, cultural, and social impacts. Tehran, with its reputable medical centers, expert workforce, and strategic location, has a high capacity for developing regional and international health tourism. Lack of network management is the main challenge for planners. This qualitative study identifies the challenges in managing the health tourism network in Tehran.
Design/methodology/approach: This qualitative study was conducted using content analysis. Data were collected from 15 semi-structured in-depth interviews with university professors, hospital administrators, health tourism agencies, experts from the Ministry of Health and Tourism, and insurance officials. Purposive sampling continued until theoretical saturation. Data analysis was conducted in three stages: open, axial, and selective coding.
Findings: Data analysis showed that the development of health tourism in Tehran faces structural (parallel work and lack of referral chain), institutional (weak coordination and multiple supervisions), and technological (lack of digital infrastructure and integrated system) challenges.
Conclusion: Without an integrated framework, it is not possible to exploit the potential. The proposals include a central coordination unit, an information system, service standardization, technology enhancement, and inter-agency relationships. This framework will serve as a model for other cities.
Originality/value This research is the first study to combine network and institutional theories, identifying the challenges of managing the health tourism network in Tehran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Tourism Planning and Development
Volume 14, Issue 54
September 2025
Pages 87-110

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