The 4P telehealth business framework for Iran

Abstract

Background Telehealth services can utilize various information technologies and improve quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery by facilitating education, treatment, follow-up, and decision-making. However, these services are not always commercialized, and in case of commercialization, there is no guarantee for their long-term sustainability in market. Therefore, business models and frameworks are used as part of commercialization processes to identify a set of factors affecting the sustainability, effectiveness, and key business activities. The current study aimed to develop a telehealth business framework for Iran. Methods This research was conducted in 2021, and a mixed-methods approach was used for data collection. Initially, a telehealth business framework was developed based on the findings derived from a systematic review and a qualitative research. The proposed framework was then reviewed by an expert panel (n = 9) in which the participants had at least three years of work experience in telehealth. Finally, the framework was validated using the Delphi method (three rounds). Results The expert panel believed that some components such as partners’ expertise, required capital and financial resources, research and analysis, marketing and branding, tax, product registration, and marketing at scientific congresses and science and technology exhibitions needed to be added to the framework. In the Delphi study, 68 out of 74 components proposed in the initial framework were approved across four major dimensions; namely, prerequisites, production, payments and costs, and post-production services. Conclusions It seems that the developed framework can facilitate commercializing telehealth technologies and developing business plans. In addition, telehealth start-ups can use this framework and its various components in a competitive market to be more successful in their businesses. However, it is still critical to evaluate the effectiveness of the framework in practice and in relation to the commercialization of telehealth technologies.

Developing a Model for the Success of Healthcare Start-up Companies in Iran: A Systematic Review and Interviews with Experts

“…In the current research, the "business rights" dimension has 6 factors, including "implementation of ideas with legal protection" and "protection of intellectual and intellectual property". In the research of Velayati et al (2022), with the aim of identifying a framework for the development of health businesses in Iran, 4 categories of "prerequisites", "production", "postproduction services" and "payment" "payments and costs" were identified.…”

“…Among the factors mentioned in the "basic requirements" category are "intellectual property rights". Additionally, in the "product" category, the factor of "legal protection" is mentioned (37). For any business, one of the most important elements of success is increasing sales.…”

“…Speed in entering the market ✓ 3 ( 26),( 53), (37) Adopting the right pricing strategy ✓ 3 ( 13) ,( 18),( 49)…”