Posted on 228,450 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?

228,450 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health”

  1. You are a very persuasive writer. I can see this in your article. You have a way of writing compelling information that sparks much interest. indowin88

    Reply

  2. While the world suffers with deadly viral outbreaks, it is also necessary to highlight the job of freight forwarders who help reach medicines and essentials to every corner.
    Our advanced container tracking
    system ensures you always know the status of your shipments, providing peace of mind and seamless logistics management.

    Reply

  13. A Henrico traffic lawyer is a great resource because of their vast legal knowledge and expertise. A lawyer experienced in reckless driving can offer valuable insights into the legal aspects of your case, as they are familiar with the specifics of Henrico, Virginia’s traffic laws.

    Reply

  18. This is a fabulous post I seen because of offer it. It is really what I expected to see trust in future you will continue in sharing such a mind boggling post Zonnepanelen kopen Zero Power

    Reply

  19. Made to measure curtains… […]check out the sites listed below, worth a read for interiors and rugs enthusiasts[…]… idw88

    Reply

  21. Embark on a journey through the artistic and literary representations of Calendars, from medieval illuminated manuscripts to contemporary artworks. Discover how calendars have inspired creativity, symbolism, and storytelling, weaving threads of time into the fabric of human expression.

    Reply

  24. There are a few interesting points soon enough in the following paragraphs but I don’t determine if I see these people center to heart. There is some validity but I’m going to take hold opinion until I consider it further. Great write-up , thanks and now we want far more! Added to FeedBurner at the same time first aid course online

    Reply

  29. As an international student, I found the tort law assignment help service incredibly helpful in navigating the intricacies of the legal system. Their clear explanations and cultural sensitivity made the learning process much smoother.

    Reply

  30. I have read your article, it is very informative and helpful for me. I admire the valuable information you offer in your articles. Thanks for posting it 스포츠분석

    Reply

  35. سلام و عرض ادب خدمت شما که در این اورگان خدمت میکنید برای مشاهده بروز رسانی های فوق العاده لوله بازکنی اسنپ لوله به این لینک معراجعه کنید تا بهرمند شود https://snapplooleh.ir/shiraz-opening-pipe/

    Reply

  38. Hey there! Looking for expert guidance on the best gaming platforms? Check out casinomentor With in-depth reviews, and recommendations, CasinoMentor helps you find the perfect site to suit your needs

    Reply

  42. I really enjoyed reading this post, big fan. Keep up the good work andplease tell me when can you publish more articles or where can I read more on the subject? Airco Zero-power.be

    Reply

  43. Enter the world of fantasy sports with my11circle where you can create your dream team and compete against friends and fellow enthusiasts. With a wide range of sports available, including cricket, football, and basketball, My11Circle offers thrilling contests and the chance to win real cash prizes.

    Reply

  46. I’m excited to uncover this page. I need to to thank you for ones time for this particularly fantastic read !! I definitely really liked every part of it and i also have you saved to fav to look at new information in your site. Spouwmuurisolatie Nu-Isoleren.be

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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