An Analysis of Cardiovascular Curricula in Iran and Selected Developed Countries

Mousavi Majd, A.; Tahmasebi Ghorabi, S.; Khoshgoftar, Z.

doi:10.58209/hehp.13.4.735

An Analysis of Cardiovascular Curricula in Iran and Selected Developed Countries

Document Type : Qualitative Research

Authors

A. Mousavi Majd ¹

S. Tahmasebi Ghorabi ²

Z. Khoshgoftar ¹

¹ Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medical Education and Learning Technologies, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

² USERN (Universal Scientific Education and Research Network) Office, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran

10.58209/hehp.13.4.735

Abstract

Aims: Cardiology training is essential for preventing and managing cardiovascular diseases. To align with global standards, this study compared the structure and approaches of cardiology training programs in Iran, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Instrument & Methods: Using Bereday’s comparative model (description, interpretation, juxtaposition, comparison), data were obtained from official sources, including the latest ACGME requirements (reformatted 2025), Royal College of Canada competencies (effective July 2025), JRCPTB curriculum (2022), and Iran’s Ministry of Health program (2013).
Findings: Although all programs aim to produce competent cardiologists, they differed significantly. Iran’s shorter, high-intensity curriculum emphasized rapid clinical specialization with a limited research focus to meet urgent domestic needs. In contrast, the United States and Canada integrated clinical excellence with substantial research and innovation, while the United Kingdom prioritized longer, structured training with regulated hours to support work-life balance.
Conclusion: Cardiology training varies by country to meet different healthcare demands and resources, and international collaboration on adaptable core standards could elevate global training quality, with Iran moderating workloads and expanding research while others balance clinical mastery, research, and well-being.

Keywords

Cardiology

Curriculum

Medical Education

Iran

Subjects