The Current Status of Medical Parasitology in Iran: Developing a Roadmap, Structural Mapping, and Proposed Scenarios for the Future of This Field

Abstract

Background: We aimed to review and analyze the status of Medical Parasitology course including cument problems and challenges on Iruman resources, infrastructure, research capacities, educational and investigative priceities in Iran, and to develop a sbadmap and future development in this field.<br /> Methods A questionnaise was prepared to obtain information on Medical Parasitology departments in the country fol lowed by geld visits in many cases to collect data on the status of the faculty members, laboratory experts, physical spaces, labozatory equipment, microscopic slides, training Parasitology techniques, research projects and theses, published articles and books, access to Parasitology joumals, books and e-books during 2022-2023. A roadmap and future development for Medical Parasitology in Iran and the fomnulation of a desirable status concerning short termy to long-term goals was com piled<br /> Results: While prominent strengths such as capable research laboratories, experienced faculty, suitable educational spaces, active research centers, the existence of centers for keeping and working with laboratory axintals, international and national collaboratins are seen in a number of medium to large centers, shortcomings related to expert human resources, lack of educational equipment and slides, the need to upgrade especially in practical subjects, joum clubs, and lab meetings, re-search infastructure such as laboratory animal houses, budget for theses and research projects urgently need attention Among 132 universities, faculties, and educational-research centers training personnel in allied medical sciences sciences disciplines, a considerable number lack Parasitology specialists.<br /> Conclusion: Iran has a strong foundation in Medical Parasitology. However, using non-permanent i ent faculty paid per course in medical education undermines quality and strains sesources, exacerbating shostages. Universities must implement tailored strategic pans for parasitology, regularly updated to strengthen education, research, and health services, ensuring sustained excellence in training and public health contributions