Doctors

Healthcare in Iran is generally good with no shortage of professional medical staff. In-fact, some may even argue the facilities offered in Iran are better than those in many Western countries.

Medical doctors are readily available in Qum, practising either in their own small offices or in larger clinics and hospitals. One of the notable advantages of the medical system in Iran is that patients can directly consult with a specialist (takhasusi doctor) without needing a referral from a general practitioner (umumi doctor). This direct access is particularly beneficial if the patient is already aware of the specific type of specialist they need to see. However, for those uncertain about which specialist to consult, it is advisable to visit a general practitioner first.

Another significant advantage is the prompt access to a wide range of diagnostic tests, which in other countries might require weeks or even months to schedule. In Iran, examinations such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds can typically be arranged within a day or two, with results often available immediately after the test. This efficiency greatly enhances the overall patient experience and expedites the diagnostic process.

The availability of female doctors in almost all specialist areas is yet another benefit of the Iranian medical system, allowing sisters to discuss their medical problems comfortably and without hesitation.

Unfortunately, despite the abundance of doctors in Qum, many students have reported challenges in finding a “good” physician. A major criticism is that doctors pay very little attention to patient care. Common issues include failing to examine the patient sufficiently, rushed diagnoses, and minimal involvement of patients in healthcare decisions. Additionally, doctors rarely provide detailed information about prescribed medications. Patient privacy is another concern; it is not uncommon for two or three other patients to be present in the room during a consultation! While not all doctors exhibit these shortcomings, these experiences have prompted the compilation of a list of doctors known for their professional skills and patient care. For those proficient in Farsi, an extensive database of medical professionals is available at www.nobat.ir and www.salamati24.com.

In contrast to the typical time-slot scheduling system prevalent in many Western countries, Iran predominantly employs an open-booking system for appointments. Under this arrangement, patients are not assigned specific appointment times; instead, they are instructed to arrive within a designated time window and are attended to on a first-come, first-serve basis. Consequently, waiting times can be quite lengthy, occasionally extending to several hours, with waiting areas often becoming crowded during peak times.

Doctor’s fees can vary greatly depending on the service being provided, however, to give a rough idea, a consultation with a general practitioner would cost around $2-3 and a with a specialist around $5.