Explaining Factors Influencing the Establishment of Health-Promoting Hospitals: A National Study using Path Analysis

Abstract

Objective(s): Following the first statement of health promotion in Ottawa World Summit, a new look on the provision of services by hospitals was born, and Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH) by the World Health Organization was introduced. Hence, this paper aimed to use path analysis to determine the factors influencing the establishment of Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study that was conducted in 2021 using cluster sampling at medical sciences universities in four provinces (Tehran, Gilan, Isfahan, Fars). The study sample included 230 university professors, managers and nursing experts with academic, executive and managerial experiences in health promotion. The research instrument was a self-designed questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using path analysis. Result: The most direct impact was related to the community variable and all direct and indirect relationships (except for the direct impact of planning and evaluation variables) were significant and effective in the establishment of health-promoting hospitals. Conclusions: Considering the direct impact of the community components in establishing a health promoting hospital, it is essential for the staff and team implementing health programs in the hospital to review, identify, and prioritize community health issues and problems. © 2025, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research. All rights reserved.