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Amirmohammadi H, Masrouri S. Challenges and Benefits of Using the Data Envelopment Analysis Method for Healthcare System Evaluation. JGUMS 2025; 34 (3) :210-223
URL: http://journal.gums.ac.ir/article-1-2751-en.html

Background Today, healthcare systems require a shift towards innovative approaches due to existing complexities and challenges. Proper management and effective performance in healthcare systems are possible by simultaneously strengthening effectiveness and efficiency. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) is a powerful method in the field of operational research and provides important information to healthcare policymakers.
Objective This study aims to review the challenges and benefits of DEA in evaluating the performance of healthcare systems, informing healthcare policymakers in Iran about the benefits of DEA.
Methods In this narrative review study, a search for related articles in English or Persian published from 2010 to 2024 was conducted in Medline, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Scientific Information Database (SID) databases. Initially, 76 articles were found. Then, according to the inclusion criteria, 31 articles with available full texts were selected and reviewed completely.
Results The challenges of applying DEA included the complexity of healthcare services, inadequate data quality/availability, the dynamic and diverse nature of healthcare, and resistance from healthcare managers and professionals. The benefits of using DEA included benchmarking, resource allocation and optimization, performance improvement, policy formulation, and a shift towards patient-centred care.
Conclusion The DEA offers significant opportunities for enhancing healthcare management; however, there are some challenges for its implementation, which should be addressed.