Decoding the Health Matrix: The Interplay of Health Systems, International Health Regulations (IHR), Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and Health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Abstract

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of strong health systems and raised questions about achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study explores the connections between Health Professional Density (HPD), International Health Regulation (IHR) core capacities, UHC, and SDGs, it investigates how these elements interact, proposing that higher HPD and compliance with IHR can significantly impact UHC and SDG achievement. Through statistical analysis, the study aims to clarify these relationships, contributing to the understanding of global health dynamics and informing policy decisions. Methods This study employed a quantitative analysis of data from 194 countries to investigate the interrelations among International Health Regulations (IHR) core capacities, health system strengthening, Universal Health Coverage Index (UHCSCI), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index. Utilizing WHO reports and online databases, the study concentrated on four primary variables: Health Professional Density (HPD), IHR compliance score, UHCSCI, and SDG Index Score. Linear regression and a serial mediation model were applied for statistical evaluation, facilitated by SPSS software, to elucidate the dynamics between these global health indicators. Results Our analysis uncovered strong positive relationships between Health Professional Density (HPD), International Health Regulation (IHR) compliance, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) service coverage, and sustainable Development Goals (SDG) performance. Key findings include the significant impact of higher HPD on better IHR compliance and wider UHC service coverage, which in turn correlate with improved SDG outcomes. This highlights the critical role of health professional availability and international health regulation adherence in enhancing global health and achieving sustainable development objectives. Conclusions This study confirms the significant links between Health professional Density (HPD), International Health Regulation (IHR) compliance, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) service coverage, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Using a serial mediation model. It shows a clear progression from PHD to improved SDG outcomes via better IHR compliance and UHC coverage. Despite potential limitations like information bias, the research provides valuable insights for policymakers and healthcare professionals. It suggests that enhancing HPD and IHR compliance can directly contribute to achieving UHC and SDG targets, offering a roadmap for addressing global health challenges and promoting sustainable health development.