Barriers and Challenges of Health Workers Performance Evaluation in the Hypertension and Diabetes Screening Program: Qualitative Content Analysis

Background and Objectives: Evaluation and monitoring of implementation for control and prevention of The Hypertension and Diabetes Screening National Program are important. This study was conducted to identify the challenges of health workers performance evaluation in The Hypertension and Diabetes Screening National Program and provide corrective strategies via exploring the viewpoint of the people involved in this program. Material and Methods: The study was a conventional qualitative content analysis as part of a larger multi-method study. It was conducted in Ahar Healthcare Network in Iran, in year 2017. The sampling was done using purposive model with maximum variation, and the data were collected through three focused group discussions. Results: Twenty-seven healrh workers, observer coaches and senior staff who were involved in the blood pressure Program were selected for the study. Four main categories including contextually, structural, process problems, and results of performance evaluation were identified from the concepts derived from viewpoints of the participants. Conclusion: Regardless of the success in preventing and controlling diabetes, Iran's primary health care system faces challenges in reducing and controlling hypertension and diabetes due to the lack of a national plan with comprehensive guidelines. The major problem address the the process of staff performance assessing. Findings of this study will help managers to address the performance evaluation system.