Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Depiction of Health 2008-9058 17 3 2026 09 30 Barriers to Implementing Convergence Science in Universities of Medical Sciences in the Northwest of Iran 306 321 10.34172/doh.2026.24 EN Ehsan Sarbazi https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8190-9942 Homayoun Sadeghi-Bazargani https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0396-8709 Mehrdad Amir- Behghadami https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6723-6438 Mina Golestani https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0453-1354 Mahdi Rezaei https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1666-5480 Gholamreza Faridaalaee https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9990-4936 Journal Article 10.34172/doh.2026.24 2025 07 31 2026 06 22 Background. Barriers to implementing the convergence science (CS) may vary depending on the health systems and universities of each country. Identifying these factors is essential for improving its implementation as much as possible. The purpose of this study was to investigate barriers to implementing CS in selected universities in northwestern Iran. Methods. A qualitative phenomenology study was conducted using Semi-Structured Interviews (SSIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) in 2023. Prior to data collection, the study objectives were explained to the participants and their informed consent was obtained. Then, SSIs and FGDs were conducted by a trained research team following interview guides, which were developed based on literature review and expert consultations. In total, 16 SSIs and 5 FGDs were conducted with faculty members selected from different universities. The study population consisted of academic staff members from all fields of the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Science. Participants were selected through purposive sampling techniques. All SSIs and FGDs were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results. This study showed that in order to implement the convergence approach, obstacles should be considered in the following domains: systemic; challenges in promoting convergence-oriented initiatives; human resources; strategic development and collaboration; infrastructures; interdisciplinary factors, and lack of strategic education initiatives. The domains identified were categorized into 28 sub-themes. Conclusion. By redesigning existing systems within the current context, empowering academics, researchers, and managers, ensuring adequate resources, and improving educational and research processes may facilitate the transition of university systems toward adopting the convergence science approach. This study can provide a platform for designing and implementing the convergence approach in Iran and other countries with similar conditions. Research Insights · Implementing the convergence of sciences approach in the health system faces challenges. · Identifying these challenges and barriers differs across each country and each university, and requires an independent study. · This study used a qualitative method to identify and categorize the barriers and solutions at the Northwest University of Medical Sciences in Iran. · These barriers must be removed by providing the necessary training on the convergence of sciences approach and implementing educational reforms, developing human resources such as strengthening trust and communication skills, and developing convergent research and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration.