Abstract

The management of congenital abnormalities, particularly CLP, within Iran's healthcare system exhibits both strengths and weaknesses. Iran has established a structured approach to chronic disease management, as seen in its initiatives for conditions such as thalassemia and hemophilia. The mandatory reporting of congenital abnormalities by all maternity hospitals to the Ministry of Health aids in data collection, however, the lack of a consolidated online registry hampers effective tracking, follow-up, and data analysis, which are crucial for resource allocation and targeted program development. The Marham National Health Institute, founded in 2009 by dedicated plastic surgeons, aims to provide essential medical and surgical services for underprivileged patients with congenital craniofacial malformations. This institute has broadened its volunteer network, improved care quality through multidisciplinary team missions, and introduced innovative solutions like a virtual visiting system and comprehensive follow-up mechanisms to enhance operational efficiency. Collaborations with non-profit organizations have also increased healthcare accessibility for remote populations by addressing transportation and accommodation challenges [2]. Similarly, the Craniofacial and Cleft Research Center (CCRC) at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, established in 2005, serves as a multi- disciplinary hub for diagnosing and treating congenital craniofacial de- formities, focusing on the development of comprehensive treatment protocols and interdisciplinary cooperation, supported by awareness campaigns for timely patient referrals [3]. Despite a commitment to training healthcare professionals in CLP surgery, the absence of specialized fellowships in craniofacial surgery represents a critical gap in expertise, potentially leading to inconsistent surgical outcomes. Financial challenges continue to affect many patients, especially those in remote areas, despite favorable insurance coverage for surgical interventions