A Review of Global Health Information Literacy Policies and Recommendations for Iran

Background. Health information literacy is a fundamental capability that enhances informed decision-making regarding individual and community health. Despite its importance in global health system policymaking, this domain in Iran faces significant structural and content-related challenges. This study aims to analyze and compare health information literacy policies in Iran with those of selected countries and to provide a concise summary of local policy through an analytical–comparative approach. Methods. This study, employing an analytical-comparative approach, presents a policy review that provides a narrative summary of local health information policies in Iran and selected countries. The data used in this study include national and international policy documents, scientific articles indexed in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and SID databases, reports from international organizations such as WHO and OECD, and health policy resources from selected countries (Australia, Canada, the United States, and the European Union). Results. In Iran, policymaking related to health information literacy education is primarily shaped within three major institutions: The Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and the national media (IRIB). However, efforts within these institutions have been fragmented and inconsistent, lacking a unified and comprehensive national strategy. This fragmentation has led to isolated initiatives without institutional coordination. Conclusion. Health information literacy in Iran requires a fundamental shift in the policymaking approach to overcome current fragmentation and move toward an integrated policy framework. International experiences demonstrate that effective policymaking in this area depends on coordinated interaction among health institutions, education systems, media, and civil society. Adopting cohesive and strategic policies can improve public health outcomes and reduce health inequalities in Iran.