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National Roadmap for the Management of Congenital Heart Disease in Transition to Adulthood in Iran: A Policy Brief
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Faramarz Kalhor    , Zahra Tagharrobi , Mohsen Taghadosi * |
| Trauma Nursing Research Center, Kashan university of medical sciences, Kashan, Iran , taghadosi_m@kaums.ac.ir |
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Abstract: (34 Views) |
Executive Summary
Problem Statement:
Advances in medical science over the past four decades have increased the survival rate of infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) to over 90%. This success has presented the Iranian health system with a growing population of Adults with Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD). The lack of a structured "Transition" system to transfer patients from pediatric to adult services has led to "structural abandonment," loss to follow-up, increased emergency hospitalizations, and significant financial burdens on insurance systems.
Key Findings:
Evidence suggests that patients experience the transition period as "living in a limbo of uncertainty." This situation stems from systemic failures (lack of protocols and shortage of specialists) and cultural barriers (family overprotection).
Policy Options: 1) Establishing joint transition clinics; 2) Defining the role of a Transition Navigator nurse; 3) Reforming employment and insurance regulations to reduce social stigma.
Final Recommendation:
Formulating and notifying a "National Protocol for the Transitional Care of ACHD Patients" focusing on patient empowerment and intersectoral coordination |
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| Keywords: Heart Defects, Congenital, Adult Congenital Heart Disease, Transitional Care. Health Policy, Health Care Systems |
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Type of Study: Policy Brief |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/12/29 | Revised: 2026/02/3 | Accepted: 2026/01/20
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