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?

157,462 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health

  1. Great post! I am actually getting ready to across this information, is very helpful my friend. Also great blog here with all of the valuable information you have. Keep up the good work you are doing here. 香港衛生巾

    Reply

  2. Top 10 Most Iconic Posters Of All Time. Sometimes you don’t even need to watch the trailer to figure out what a movie is about. Sometimes all you have to do is glance at the poster.

    Reply

  3. designer dog harness and leash set

    Designer dog harnesses are the epitome of style and function. With a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns, they allow pet owners to showcase their personal flair while walking their dogs. So, you can find designer dog harnesses for your furry friend right here. Crafted from high-quality materials like leather or durable fabrics, these harnesses ensure long-lasting use. Adjustable straps and buckles provide a customizable fit for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Comfort is key, so look for padded areas around the chest and neck to prevent any discomfort or chafing. Before purchasing, accurately measure your dog’s size using the manufacturer’s specific chart. While designer dog harnesses may be pricier than regular ones, their unique designs and superior quality make them worth every penny. Your furry friend will turn heads in public spaces while sparking conversations with fellow stylish pet owners who appreciate fashionable accessories for their beloved companions

    Reply

  4. The American Security Council Foundation (ASCF) stands as a paramount force in safeguarding the principles of security and resilience, with a particular focus on Alabama. As a trusted institution, ASCF is dedicated to fortifying the foundations of safety, ensuring the well-being of communities, and upholding the values that define the American way of life.

    American Security Council Foundation Georgia

    Reply

  5. designer dog harnesses

    Designer dog harnesses are the epitome of style and function. With a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns, they allow pet owners to showcase their personal flair while walking their dogs. So, you can find designer dog harnesses for your furry friend right here. Crafted from high-quality materials like leather or durable fabrics, these harnesses ensure long-lasting use. Adjustable straps and buckles provide a customizable fit for dogs of all sizes and breeds. Comfort is key, so look for padded areas around the chest and neck to prevent any discomfort or chafing. Before purchasing, accurately measure your dog’s size using the manufacturer’s specific chart. While designer dog harnesses may be pricier than regular ones, their unique designs and superior quality make them worth every penny. Your furry friend will turn heads in public spaces while sparking conversations with fellow stylish pet owners who appreciate fashionable accessories for their beloved companions

    Reply

  6. Interesting topic for a blog. I have been searching the Internet for fun and came upon your website. Fabulous post. Thanks a ton for sharing your knowledge! It is great to see that some people still put in an effort into managing their websites. I’ll be sure to check back again real soon. Wrestle bros

    Reply

  7. Thanks for posting this info. I just want to let you know that I just check out your site and I find it very interesting and informative. I can’t wait to read lots of your posts.
    oil and gas cpa

    Reply

  8. “Dive into databases and SQL integration in Python, mastering how to manage and interact with data efficiently in various database systems.”
    <a href=”https://fullstackcampus.com/index.php/python-institute-in-hyderabad-2023

    Reply

  9. I am extremely delighted in for this web journal. Its a useful subject. It help me all that much to take care of a few issues. Its chance are so awesome and working style so rapid. 訂造傢俬

    Reply

  10. “The aesthetically pleasing templates and design elements make this website stand out from the crowd.”

    Reply

  11. Your article has proven useful to me. It’s very informative and you are obviously very knowledgeable in this area. You have opened my eyes to varying views on this topic with interesting and solid content. polka dot candy bar

    Reply

  12. You make so many great points here that I read your article a couple of times. Your views are in accordance with my own for the most part. This is great content for your readers. 新樓設計

    Reply

  13. The electric chair is a popular device for warming the body in the cold season of winter. This heating system, by being placed under the table of the chair and producing uniform heat, warms the human body. The use of the chair in Iran has a very long history, and even today it is witnessed by many people. The color of these heating devices is inside the houses.
    https://newkhane.ir/%da%a9%d8%b1%d8%b3%db%8c-%d8%a8%d8%b1%d9%82%db%8c/

    Reply

  14. Thanks so much with this fantastic new web site. very fired up to show it to anyone. It makes me so satisfied your vast understanding and wisdom have a new channel for trying into the world. 裝修設計

    Reply

  15. Engrossing article delving into the realm of BITCOIN MINING! The shared insights on optimizing returns are truly valuable. Being deeply engrossed in this field, the content significantly enhances my understanding. I eagerly look forward to more enlightening posts that deepen my knowledge.

    Reply

  16. 男性の中には、クリトリス吸引で舐めたり、すすったり、金玉をいじったりするオーラルセックスをするのが好きな人もいます。男性の中には非常に敏感なので、ほんの少しの刺激でも痛みを感じる人もいます。

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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