A Study of the Medical Licensing Process in Iran from the Qajar Period to the End of the First Pahlavi Period
Tārīkh-i pizishkī i.e., Medical History,
Vol. 17 (1404),
6 May 2025
,
Page 1-24
https://doi.org/10.22037/mhj.v17i.48320
Abstract
Background and Aim: During the Qajar period, physicians practiced medicine using traditional methods inherited from their ancestors. The absence of an organization for training or supervising their activities was felt as a fundamental Problem. Following Iran's defeat in the Russo-Persian Wars, opportunities for increased interaction with Europeans emerged. The Constitutional Revolution brought about a tremendous transformation in all aspects of the country, leading to the emergence of medical regulations and the requirement for obtaining licenses. However, since these regulations were not properly implemented, reforms were introduced during the first Pahlavi era. Based on these reforms, physicians were required to take medical exams and upon passing, they would receive practice licenses. This article aims to conduct an innovative study examining the process of issuing medical licenses to Iranian graduates during the Qajar and first Pahlavi periods.
Methods: This research has utilized library and documentary sources, adopting a historical and descriptive approach to analyze the subject.
Ethical Considerations: In this research, honesty and trustworthiness in the use to sources have been respected.
Results: The investigations indicate that physicians had to go through a specific administrative process to obtain their certification. The medical license was considered a document that verified the physician's scientific and practical competence, enabling people to trust them for treating illnesses.
Conclusion: Medical licenses reflected society’s efforts to embrace modern science, ensure the qualifications of physicians, reduce the risks associated with traditional medicine and ultimately eliminate unqualified practitioners. Despite internal and external challenges, educational developments and Iran’s engagement with modernity ultimately contributed to improving the quality of life.
- Historical Documents
- Medical License
- Iranian Physicians
- Qajar
- Pahlavi I
How to Cite
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