Posted on 220,109 Comments on Important Determinants of Health

Important Determinants of Health →

As local communities continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the population and resource availability becomes increasingly important. Accessibility and affordability of healthcare are crucial during these times, as the virus does not discriminate against whom it affects. While the pandemic has caused changes in everyone’s lives, individuals without health insurance, access to transportation, and access to mental health services are a part of the population that is being particularly negatively affected.

To focus on the specific challenges faced by a local community during this pandemic, this blog will focus on the Albany, New York area and its population (1).

Health Insurance

In the U.S., there are over 28 million uninsured individuals (2). It can be incredibly expensive to try and afford basic care without health insurance, and patients without health insurance are limited in the providers they can see and make appointments with. Uninsured people are therefore far less likely to get medical care, which means they are not receiving yearly checkups and don’t have access to preventative measures, such as cancer screenings or blood pressure tests. In many cases, medical care is only sought in emergencies.

While the uninsured rate in New York has decreased in recent years, there are few options for those that are uninsured in Albany. One of these options is Surya Immediate Medical Care– while not currently accepting any ill patients due to the pandemic, the center accepts patients without insurance and allows self-payments. A new visit costs $150, while an established visit costs $100. Charges for additional services like strep tests and x-rays are listed on their website. For dental health, Aspen Dental in Albany is a practice that provides free exams and x-rays on the first visit, without insurance.

Access to Transportation

Being able to make an appointment is one thing, but actually getting to the doctor’s office is another– access to transportation is something that can often prevent patients from receiving the healthcare they need. One of the COVID-19 testing sites in Albany is at SUNY Albany. However, to be tested, individuals need transportation to the testing site and must be in a vehicle when they are being tested. Some resources that provide transportation include UberHealth, Medanswering services for individuals with Medicaid, and CDTA transit for Albany county resident seniors over the age of 60.

More recently, some mobile testing sites have become available and are listed here, which can allow some individuals to have access to testing without needing transportation, depending on where they live.

Mental Health Services

Mental health is an equally large component and contributor to overall health and wellbeing as physical health. With the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals are experiencing loneliness, anxiety, and other mental health issues as daily lifestyles have changed due to quarantine and social interaction is limited. To try and support individuals at home, some hotlines have become available 24/7 or throughout the week to provide help. A COVID-19 support line is available at (518) 269-6634, from 8 am to 8 pm every day. Additional hotlines and mental health resources in Albany are listed here.

While the Albany area has begun to respond to changes in healthcare availability and accessibility due to the pandemic, there are still some areas that can be improved upon, such as increased access to basic care and preventative services for people who are uninsured. Additionally, access to health insurance, transportation, and mental health services are only a few of the determinants of health and wellbeing– what do you think your local community can improve upon when it comes to the health of its population?

220,109 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health”

  4. The first thing that strikes you when you launch Geometry Dash APK is its visually captivating interface. With vibrant colors and a sleek design, the game engulfs players in a visually stunning experience. Each level is meticulously crafted to provide not only a gaming platform but also a work of art.

    Reply

  5. The first thing that strikes you when you launch Geometry Dash APK is its visually captivating interface. With vibrant colors and a sleek design, the game engulfs players in a visually stunning experience. Each level is meticulously crafted to provide not only a gaming platform but also a work of art.

    http://geometrydashapks.org/

    Reply

  6. Having immersed ourselves in the blog’s content, we find it truly enthralling. We wish to convey our gratitude to the author for their significant contribution in support of Oncologists. Houston Oncology Consultants epitomize a specialized medical practice consisting of dedicated oncologists and healthcare professionals devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. houston oncology consultants Their services encompass comprehensive care, incorporating state-of-the-art treatments, therapies, and personalized assistance for individuals confronting cancer.

    Reply

  7. Watch Here Doramasmp4 Online In Sub Español Full HD Video
    Gratis Ver Online Tailandeses Fast Live Stream Free.

    Reply

  8. Experience the world like never before with Swastik Holiday Tours and Travels! Book your Domestic or International Tour Packages with us today and enjoy great discounts on Flight Bookings, Hotel Bookings, and more. Honeymoon Packages in India

    Reply

  18. You really have the ability to write unique content. I like your way of thinking and the way you express your point of view in this article. I agree with your way of thinking. Thank you for sharing how to kill insects near me. I am also a professional carpet cleaning service ga at lowest price.

    Reply

  21. You really have the ability to write unique content. I like your way of thinking and the way you express your point of view in this article. I agree with your way of thinking. Thank you for sharing how to get rid of bugs near me. In addition, I am also a home cleaning organizing services provider with the lowest price.

    Reply

  24. Wonderful article, thanks for putting this together! This is obviously one great post. Thanks for the valuable information and insights you have so provided here.
    Medical Billing Services

    Reply

  26. I haven’t any word to appreciate this post…..Really i am impressed from this post….the person who create this post it was a great human..thanks for shared this with us.
    Medical Billing Services

    Reply

  42. I am genuinely happy to glance at this blog posts which contains plenty of valuable information, thanks for providing such information.
    카지노

    Reply

  43. Really a great addition. I have read this marvelous post. Thanks for sharing information about it. I really like that. Thanks so lot for your convene. buy cannabis online

    Reply

  46. Everyone pointed out to you that it’s not true, but it’s amazing that you really didn’t change your beliefs and walked your way and created a beautiful work like this메이저사이트

    Reply

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *