Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
PhD Candidate, Department of Development and Economic Planning, School of Management and Economics, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
2
Faculty Member, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
3
Ph.D. student in Economics, University of Qom, Qom, Iran
Abstract
Waqf, as an economic and social institution in Islam, plays a fundamental role in providing financial resources for public services, particularly in the health sector. This study investigates the barriers and challenges in utilizing Waqf within Iran’s healthcare system. Using the fuzzy Delphi method, eight key factors influencing the functioning of health Waqf were identified and analyzed. These factors include lack of supportive laws, resistance to change, difficulties in long-term investment, absence of monitoring and evaluation systems, weaknesses in modern management models, inefficiency of traditional methods in managing Waqf resources, challenges in employing modern financial instruments, and lack of education regarding health Waqf. The results indicate that neglecting these factors can reduce the effectiveness of Waqf in financing the healthcare system.
Policy recommendations for improving the state of health Waqf include formulating new supportive laws, promoting education and awareness about the capacities of Waqf, establishing transparent monitoring and evaluation systems, developing modern management models, and utilizing modern financial instruments such as cash Waqf and shares. Furthermore, improving coordination between governmental institutions and Waqf organizations is essential for the targeted allocation of resources and enhancing the performance of endowments. Implementing these reforms can harness the capacities of Waqf to strengthen Iran’s healthcare system and increase access to health services for various segments of society.
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