Posted on 161,999 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?

161,999 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health”

  1. LOOKAH’s water bongs exemplify its dedication to creative brilliance, presenting a collection that transcends from the finely made to the grandly envisioned, reflecting a perfect harmony of detail and grandeur.
    v

    Reply

  3. Launch your quest to uncover the perfect weed bongs from LOOKAH’s array, acclaimed for its innovative designs and superior craftsmanship that reflect a dedication to artistic excellence.

    Reply

  5. Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wished to say that I’ve truly
    enjoyed browsing your articles. Label Machine provide printing solutions for tidying up your space.

    Reply

  6. Set sail on a personalized journey to identify the ideal weed bongs from LOOKAH’s diverse offerings, where each piece is a testament to original design and premium craftsmanship.

    Reply

  8. Commence your pursuit to find the perfect weed bongs from LOOKAH’s eclectic range, known for its creative designs and masterful craftsmanship that appeal to discerning tastes.

    Reply

  9. I just couldn’t leave your website before telling you that I truly enjoyed the top quality info you present to your visitors? Will be back again frequently to check up on new posts. agen toto play

    Reply

  10. Slot Gacor lebih dikenal sebagai link situs slot online gacor terbaru hari ini 2024 yang menawarkan permainan slot gacor terbaik gampang menang di sobat777

    https://huffycow.com/

    Reply

  11. Nontonflix adalah situs nonton film movie online streaming gratis dengan film terupdate dan terpopuler layarkaca21 lk21 bioskopkeren.

    Reply

  15. We understand the importance of a seamless and enjoyable user experience. Our website is designed to be user-friendly, with easy navigation and a clean layout that allows you to find the content you are looking for quickly and effortlessly.

    Reply

  16. We understand the importance of a seamless and enjoyable user experience. Our website is designed to be user-friendly, with easy navigation and a clean layout that allows you to find the content you are looking for quickly and effortlessly.https://emotivci.info/

    Reply

  19. I want to introduce a very fantastic and very interesting game that can be used as entertainment. This game is also very profitable. For further information, just visit this website https://cozer.net/

    Reply

  21. What Terminal is allegiant at logan
    Allegiant Air operates out of Terminal B at Logan International Airport in Boston. This terminal is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for all passengers. Terminal B offers a variety of dining and shopping options, comfortable seating areas, and efficient security screening processes. The strategic location and thoughtful design of the terminal make it convenient for travelers to navigate and access necessary services. Allegiant Air’s presence at Terminal B underscores its commitment to providing its customers with a hassle-free and pleasant journey from start to finish.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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