Effective Strategies for Managing Medicine-Induced Demand in Iran: A Qualitative Study Using Grounded Theory

Background: Following the phenomenon of induced demand, a significant allocation of resources is directed toward the pharmaceutical sector. An increase in induced demand for medicine can adversely affect the performance of the health system and impose substantial financial burdens on individuals and society. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to identify effective strategies for managing medicine-induced demand in Iran. Methods: This study employed a qualitative design with a grounded theory approach, conducted in multiple stages. Initially, a systematic review of the literature was performed, followed by the development of semi-structured interview questions based on the review findings and insights from the experiences of various experts. Data from the interviews were analyzed using MAXQDA software (version 18) to extract themes, categories, and subcategories. Results: A total of 30 relevant articles were identified through the literature review, aligning with the study objectives. Strategies for managing the induced demand for medicine in Iran, derived from interview data, were categorized into three themes, seven categories, and 20 subcategories. The main themes included planning, organizational-structural strategies, and economic factors. These themes encompassed seven categories, including societal culture, medication literacy, service delivery methods, regulatory mechanisms, political mechanisms, payment systems, and insurance. Notably, key factors influencing induced demand included physician performance monitoring, insurance restrictions, advertising and marketing limitations, and changing societal attitudes. Conclusion: This study proposed strategies for managing induced demand for medicine in Iran. These strategies can improve efficient resource management, control healthcare costs, and ultimately enhance the quality of healthcare services provided to patients.