Factors affecting school health policies and ways to improve them: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: The health of school-aged individuals significantly impacts a country's success and development. Numerous policies and programs have been implemented globally to enhance school health, influenced by various factors. This study aims to identify the factors affecting school health policies and explore ways to improve them. METHODS: This qualitative study was conducted in 2022 using semi-structured interviews. Participants included managers, policymakers, and health workers in schools, selected through purposive sampling. The data collection tool was a semi-structured interview guide developed by the research team. Interviews were conducted both in person and via telephone. The framework analysis method was employed to interpret the interview data. RESULTS: The study examined various facets of the issue, including the identification and analysis of beneficiaries, background factors, the policymaking process, and the content of school health policies. Proposed solutions included fostering a culture of improving school health, integrating policies and programs, securing financial resources, engaging relevant bodies and organizations, taking a macro-level view of school health, and ensuring adequate infrastructure and specialized human resources. CONCLUSION: Developing need-based policies for students, promoting inter-organizational and inter-departmental cooperation among school health stakeholders, securing financial resources and environmental infrastructure, leveraging technology, and prioritizing school health are crucial. This underscores the importance of utilizing the latest scientific evidence to inform policy content and implementation.