Demographic and Clinical Epidemiology of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in U.S. Community Health Centers: A Cross-Sectional Analysis of the 2022–2023 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey – Cureus

Report on Specialty Selection and Its Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Introduction
This report examines the factors influencing specialty selection among healthcare professionals, highlighting the implications for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The analysis integrates data visualization to support findings and emphasizes the role of specialty choices in promoting health and well-being.
Specialty Selection Overview
Specialty selection is a critical decision impacting healthcare delivery and workforce distribution. Understanding the determinants of specialty choice can inform policies that align with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.
Key Factors Influencing Specialty Choice
- Work-Life Balance: Preferences for specialties offering manageable workloads contribute to better mental health outcomes, supporting SDG 3.
- Income Potential: Economic considerations affect specialty decisions, linking to SDG 1: No Poverty by influencing financial stability.
- Professional Interest: Personal passion and aptitude guide specialty selection, enhancing quality of care and innovation.
- Training Opportunities: Availability of educational resources impacts specialty distribution, relevant to SDG 4: Quality Education.
Implications for Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-being: Equitable distribution of healthcare specialists ensures comprehensive care and reduces health disparities.
- SDG 4 – Quality Education: Enhancing specialty training programs promotes lifelong learning and skill development.
- SDG 5 – Gender Equality: Addressing gender disparities in specialty choice fosters inclusive healthcare environments.
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Aligning specialty selection with labor market needs supports sustainable employment.
Data Visualization

Conclusion
Understanding the determinants of specialty selection is essential for advancing multiple Sustainable Development Goals. Strategic interventions can optimize healthcare workforce distribution, enhance education, promote gender equality, and support economic growth, ultimately contributing to global health and well-being.
1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
- The article includes an image related to health data (Adjusted Odds Ratio), indicating a focus on health outcomes and determinants.
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- The mention of “Specialty” and control labels suggests an analysis of disparities or differences in health outcomes across specialties or groups.
2. Specific Targets Under Identified SDGs
- SDG 3 Targets
- Target 3.4: Reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment.
- Target 3.8: Achieve universal health coverage, including financial risk protection and access to quality essential health-care services.
- SDG 10 Targets
- Target 10.2: Empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article
- Health Outcome Indicators
- Adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) as a measure of association between variables related to health outcomes.
- Potential implied indicators: mortality rates, incidence or prevalence of diseases, access to healthcare services.
- Equity Indicators
- Differences in health outcomes by specialty or demographic group, implying indicators related to health disparities.
4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
---|---|---|
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being |
|
|
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities |
|
|
Source: cureus.com