Development of a Conceptual Framework for Smart Hospitals: A Qualitative Study in Iran.

Background and Aims: The concept of a smart hospital refers to an advanced care model aimed at improving quality of care while using resources efficiently. This study aims to develop a comprehensive conceptual model that clearly defines the key dimensions of smart hospitals. Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2024. The participants included 22 health system managers with a minimum of 5 years of managerial experience, alongside policymakers and scientific experts familiar with the concept of smart hospitals in Iran. Data were collected through targeted semi-structured interviews, followed by snowball sampling until data saturation was reached. The interview questions focused on the concepts and dimensions of smart hospitals. Subsequently, the interviews were transcribed, meaning units were identified, coded, and classified based on similarities and patterns. Themes were then extracted and analyzed using content analysis. Results: The analysis identified 5 main themes, 21 subthemes, and 94 items. These themes included: Management and Leadership (control, human resource, financial resource, planning, and management dashboard), Care and Treatment (inpatient services, outpatient services, pharmaceutical services, and health promotion), Information and Communication Systems (health files, communication infrastructure, information infrastructure, and network management), Medical Equipment (therapeutic equipment, diagnostic equipment, detection equipment, and rehabilitation equipment), and Structures and Facilities (energy management, risk management, waste management, and smart facilities). Conclusion: The smart hospital concept is complex, requiring multidisciplinary collaboration and adherence to health standards. Success depends on optimizing resources, strengthening policies and planning, enhancing information systems, upgrading facilities, and prioritizing smart care processes and medical equipment.