Research Article Improving Indices in Evaluation of Medical Research Centers in Iran

To implement Health System Reform Plan properly, it is required to evaluate and survey process of health research system, as well as implementation process and effectiveness of such system using accurate indices. Research evaluation means systematic measurement of policies, programs or plans to determine the success in achieving the objectives of the nationwide health system, ultimately, improvement the health level of society equitably. Assessment of the scientific research centers causes beneficiaries of each scientific institution to be informed of improvement level and quality of scientific activities, and enables them to receive feedback from the evaluation for dynamic planning and developing of scientific activities. This study aimed at ensuring that the best indices are chosen for evaluation of health research system. Methodology: This research was conducted using descriptive-analytic method. The statistical population comprised all heads of research centers, and prominent experts and scholars of Iran. Sampling was done using targeted method. For data collection, indices that were most important in terms of evaluation of health research system were selected, which formed the main parts of the expert’s opinion questionnaire. In process of asking expert ’s opinion, a limited population of fully qualified experts was used. Some of the questionnaires were completed by respondents via e-mail and others in person. Finally, 16 questionnaires were completed and analyzed. According to the results, the most important indices as seen from the views of experts were those of innovation and creativity in the field of research and services, strategic planning, including identification of the vision and mission of research centers (including mission, values, long term goals