Research Priorities in the Field of Patient Safety in Iran: Results of a Delphi Study

Abstract

There is inadequate evidence to direct and support patient safety practice. Therefore, identifying research priorities in this field is relevant for many stakeholders. This study, which was built on the World Health Organization work, aimed to identify and prioritize research topics for patient safety in Iran. A 3-round Modified Delphi process was used. We purposefully recruited a panel of 45 policy makers, planners, health care managers and staff, and academic members with experience or expertise in patient safety research. A review of the literature was used to develop the first questionnaire, including 24 research topics. Respondents were asked to rate their agreement with each research topic and propose new topics. Based on the results of round 1, the second questionnaire was developed and the respondents were requested to rate 45 research topics and also put similar research topics in the same groups. Given the responses of round 2, the third questionnaire including a list of 45 research priorities categorized in 4 groups was developed. Respondents were asked to reflect their opinions. Content analysis was used to analyze round 1 data and descriptive statistics for round 2 and round 3 data. Forty-five identified research topics in round 1 prioritized and grouped in subsequent rounds. Among 4 research groups, the extent and epidemiology threatening patient safety group received the highest priority; and among research topics, adverse drug events and its epidemiology were the top-ranked research priorities. In addition to the priorities identified in previous work, more research priorities that reflect important and needed issue related to patient safety, especially in Iran, were recognized. This priority research list, which most stakeholders agree with it, can serve as a blueprint for patient safety research.