Shahr-e kord University of Medical Sciences

The healthcare delivery system was established in Chaharmahal and bakhtiari province less than half a century ago. Prior to the Islamic Revolution, the activities of healthcare section were only limited to partial healthcare delivery centers, which were mainly available in urban areas. These centers were mainly run by foreign doctors and the lack of other healthcare delivery personnel, such as nurses and midwives, impacted patient’s care gravely. In that time, there was no higher education center in order to educate healthcare specialists. After the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979, a series of fundamental and structural changes took place in the country and in the province. From 1979 to 1986, experts and specialists in the healthcare sector tried to design and establish an integrated healthcare network throughout the country. This initiative, aiming to provide social justice and affordable and accessible healthcare services for all Iranians, was supported by the authorities and was expanded across the country, including Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province. In 1986, the Regional Health Organization was renamed to University of Medical Sciences. The university began its educational activities in 1987 with 240 students enrolled in 3 majors in 2 schools, and now it has approximately 2494 students in 38 majors in 7 schools. There are currently 228 faculty members, including 6 professors, 29 associate professors, 163 assistant professors and 29 trainers. Since the establishment of the university, about 10936 students have graduated from the university, and 3701students (approximately 35% of students) have been accepted to higher educational levels.