Legal and Regulatory Review of Training and Employing Midlevel Dental Providers in Iran

Abstract

Background: The training of various dental auxiliaries has been the result of efforts to address the issue of access to dental services in Iran.Objectives: To examine the laws governing the training and employment of dental auxiliaries in Iran and to identify their strengths and weaknesses.Methods: This qualitative study analyzed 22 documents in five stages, utilizing framework analysis based on the 2000 World Health Organization report.Results: The strengths of the laws enacted in stewardship function include: Establishing regulations for addressing violations; ensuring compliance with the law; setting prohibitions; defining responsibilities and enforcement; repealing outdated laws; refining legislation; delegating authority; fulfilling needs; enhancing access; promoting equity; securing human resources; providing educational infrastructure; standardizing education; defining hierarchies and fostering intersectoral collaboration. Additionally, the weaknesses of these laws include contradictory policies, extension of laws, and lack of adherence to the regulations. In the area of human resource training, the strengths include having regulations for service orientation and relocation, recruitment and retention of personnel, skill development, educational and motivational standards, evaluation, and needs assessment. However, weaknesses include inconsistencies in educational standards and the defined goals of the training program. The laws in the service delivery domain exhibit strengths such as prioritizing and supplying human resources for both urban and rural areas, emphasizing preventive services, and facilitating access. Nevertheless, weaknesses in this domain involve the nature of assigned tasks and the priorities set. In the area of resource production, strengths include identifying the necessary resources for program implementation and implementing cost-saving measures.Conclusion: This study highlights the strengths and weaknesses of the laws governing dental auxiliaries in Iran. It suggests revising contradictory laws, enhancing supervision, clarifying legal distinctions, defining vision and achievable goals, involving stakeholders in legislative processes, and prioritizing initiatives.