Posted on 207,538 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?

207,538 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health”

  13. Hey, there!
    I hope you’re wife finds a way that she can work on her art without interruptions and with greater comfort.
    Thanks so much for reading and for sharing with her!토토사이트

    Reply

  34. It’s appropriate time to make some plans for the future and it’s time to be happy. I have read this post and if I could I wish to suggest you some interesting things or tips. Maybe you could write next articles referring to this article. I wish to read more things about it! slot365

    Reply

  37. tucson moving companies

    Since 1989, Nicolosi Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name among Tucson moving companies. Unlike larger competitors, our more compact size enables us to offer specialized services like senior moving assistance, which big chains often can’t provide. When you choose us as your Tucson movers, you’ll gain the advantage of direct communication with our owner, Jack Nicolosi. This personal touch not only alleviates the stress commonly associated with moving but also ensures that your belongings are in capable hands. Jack is deeply committed to customer satisfaction, making it the cornerstone of what you’ll experience when you opt for Nicolosi Moving & Storage.

    Reply

  39. senior moving assistance

    Since 1989, Nicolosi Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name among Tucson moving companies. Unlike larger competitors, our more compact size enables us to offer specialized services like senior moving assistance, which big chains often can’t provide. When you choose us as your Tucson movers, you’ll gain the advantage of direct communication with our owner, Jack Nicolosi. This personal touch not only alleviates the stress commonly associated with moving but also ensures that your belongings are in capable hands. Jack is deeply committed to customer satisfaction, making it the cornerstone of what you’ll experience when you opt for Nicolosi Moving & Storage.

    Reply

  44. local moving companies

    Since 1989, Nicolosi Moving & Storage, Inc. has been a trusted name among Tucson moving companies. Unlike larger competitors, our more compact size enables us to offer specialized services like senior moving assistance, which big chains often can’t provide. When you choose us as your Tucson movers, you’ll gain the advantage of direct communication with our owner, Jack Nicolosi. This personal touch not only alleviates the stress commonly associated with moving but also ensures that your belongings are in capable hands. Jack is deeply committed to customer satisfaction, making it the cornerstone of what you’ll experience when you opt for Nicolosi Moving & Storage.

    Reply

  45. Pearlvine is a term that might not be familiar to everyone, but it has gained significant attention in recent years as a result of its association with multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes. Pearlvine Login refers to the process by which individuals access their Pearlvine accounts, which are typically created when someone joins the Pearlvine network. To fully understand Pearlvine login, it’s essential to explore what Pearlvine is and why it has generated both interest and controversy.

    Reply

  46. The slot pg website, direct website, deposits and withdrawals, no minimum, is one of the interesting options for people who are fascinated by the excitement of new online slot games.

    Reply

  47. Calgary’s trailers for sale calgary market isn’t just for local residents; it welcomes buyers from near and far. Whether you’re from Calgary or considering a visit, the city’s trailer market is open to all. Find the perfect trailer to suit your needs, whether you’re a local or just passing through. Calgary’s trailers are ready to accommodate every traveler.

    Reply

  50. Great job here on. I read a lot of blog posts, but I never heard a topic like this. I Love this topic you made about the blogger’s bucket list. Very resourceful Webagentur Hannover

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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