June 9, 2025 – As medical equipment remains a core pillar of the nation’s health system, its structural placement within the Ministry of Health continues to be debated. At the provincial meeting of the Iranian Association of Medical Equipment Specialists, members emphasized the urgent need to redefine the sector’s standing and revive an independent, unified management system.

Amirhossein Mahdizadeh, board vice-chairman, highlighted the importance of experience-sharing, understanding regional challenges, and developing local solutions. He criticized the current placement of medical equipment under the Food and Drug Administration, which has resulted in fragmented authority among various divisions—treatment, food and drug, and universities—hindering unified policy and efficiency.

Recalling successful management models from 15–20 years ago, Mahdizadeh noted that the then-independent Medical Equipment Trade Management Center enabled agile, effective, and cohesive decision-making. He pointed out resistance within some current structures to restoring this model, with officials arguing that removing medical equipment oversight would erode the Food and Drug Administration’s identity.

He also referenced the longstanding call for the creation of a Medical Equipment Engineering Organization, a priority since the association’s inception, but one that faces fundamental structural barriers. Despite these challenges, Mahdizadeh emphasized the strong reputation and influence of the association in both governmental and non-governmental circles, expressing optimism that reflecting local concerns at the national level can help secure the sector’s professional and strategic position.