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?

164,431 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health

  1. I’ve recently discovered an amazing tool that has completely changed the way I save and organize content from Pinterest – a Pinterest Video Downloader! This tool is incredibly easy to use and allows me to download my favorite videos from Pinterest with just a few clicks. Whether it’s DIY projects, cooking tutorials, or travel inspiration, I can now save them all for offline viewing. If you’re an avid Pinterest user like me, you should definitely check it out!

    Reply

  2. Fat Burning Injections in Mt Juliet, TN accelerate the body’s natural fat-burning processes, helping you shed unwanted pounds and achieve a leaner, more toned physique. These targeted injections contain a potent blend of vitamins, minerals, and fat-metabolizing compounds that rev up your metabolism, increase energy levels, and promote the breakdown of stubborn fat deposits. Administered by qualified medical professionals, these injections are a safe and effective solution for anyone looking to jumpstart their weight loss journey in the Mt Juliet area. Experience the transformative power of fat-burning injections and take control of your fitness goals today.

    Reply

  3. We are Gurgaon’s top escort service. With years of experience, we offer the best Gurgaon Escorts Services. If you’re searching for a gorgeous and lovely call girl service in Gurgaon. Our mission is to offer Gurgaon’s best escort services. Gurgaon Escorts Services offer the sexiest and most attractive call girls in Gurgaon. Book Now: 9354457927

    https://www.gurgaonescortsservice.com

    Reply

  4. Hello there! I could have sworn I’ve been to this blog before but after checking through some of the post I realized it’s new to me. Anyhow, I’m definitely glad I found it and I’ll be bookmarking and checking back frequently! compliance security

    Reply

  5. QuickBooks is one of the most popular accounting software for small businesses in 2024. Whether you want to move away from manual bookkeeping or your spreadsheets have grown into a multiheaded hydra or you need a better option compared to your current software, QuickBooks can be a good choice without burning a hole in the pocket.

    In this article, we will discuss what QuickBooks is and how it works so that you can understand the different ways in which it can help you save time and be on top of your financial statements.
    https://experience.dynamics.com/ideas/idea/?ideaid=d3096bd4-7342-ef11-b4ad-000d3a0d5d50

    Reply

  6. I found your blog site on google and examine a couple of of your early posts. Proceed to maintain up the very good operate. I just extra up your RSS feed to my MSN News Reader. Looking for forward to reading extra from you afterward!? I am often to running a blog and i really appreciate your content. The article has actually peaks my interest. I’m going to bookmark your website and preserve checking for brand new information. tequila old fashioned recipe

    Reply

  7. Video Production Jacksonville, FLelevates your brand’s storytelling with cinematic-quality videos that captivate and inspire. Seasoned videographers, directors, and editors collaborate closely with clients to bring their vision to life, from concept to final delivery. Whether you require high-impact commercials, engaging explainer videos, or compelling social media content, the video production experts in Jacksonville, FL leverage the latest technology and creative techniques to ensure your message resonates powerfully with your target audience. Elevate your marketing and transform your online presence with professional video production services in Jacksonville, Florida.

    Reply

  8. Thank you for any other informative site. The place else could I am getting that kind of information written in such a perfect approach? I have a mission that I’m just now running on, and I have been on the look out for such info 소액결제 현금화

    Reply

  9. Are you looking for a natural and effective way to shed those extra pounds and achieve a slimmer waistline? Meet Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic, the ultimate weight loss solution designed to help you burn fat, Transform your body and feel confident with Sumatra Slim Belly Tonic. SUMATRA SLIM BELLY TONIC

    Reply

  10. I think I have never seen such blogs ever before that has complete things with all details which I want. So kindly update this ever for us 소액결제 현금화

    Reply

  11. Nice post. I was continuously checking this blog and I am impressed! Extremely useful info particularly the last part .I care for such information much. I was seeking this particular info for a long time. Thank you and good luck . 홀덤사이트

    Reply

  12. Healthcare SEO in Jacksonville, FL empowers medical practices and healthcare providers to rise to the top of online search results. Experienced SEO specialists leverage advanced strategies to optimize your website, improve visibility, and attract more qualified patients. By targeting relevant keywords, enhancing site architecture, and generating authoritative content, the Healthcare SEO experts in Jacksonville, FL ensure your facility, services, and providers are easily found by those seeking quality care. Outrank your competitors, increase patient acquisition, and grow your healthcare business through the power of proven search engine optimization techniques in Jacksonville, Florida.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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