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?

207,880 thoughts on “Important Determinants of Health

  1. What an exquisite article! Your post is very helpful right now. Thank you for sharing this informative one and If you are looking for luxury watches for men and women so The Watch Max is the best for authentic watches, The Watch Max offers a wide selection of quality watches at unbeatable prices.

    Reply

  2. It took me time to read all the comments, but I really enjoyed the article. It proved to be very helpful to me, and I am sure to all the commenters here! It’s always nice when you can not only be informed but also entertained! USA Art Gallery

    Reply

  3. Thanks for sharing with us.You can Buy Verified Revolut Accounts to make your business work more smoothly.
    help you to Buy Verified Revolut Accounts.
    Anyone want to Buy Verified Revolut Accounts then visit my website.

    Reply

  4. situs slot terpercaya – Situs judi slot online terpercaya Apizeus777 menghadirkan pilihan agen slot88 resmi dan daftar game slot gacor 2023 terbaik hari ini gampang bocor jackpot. Rasakan kemenangan besar dengan bonus melimpah.

    https://www.engageca.org/

    Reply

  5. Thanks for sharing with us.You can Buy Verified Revolut Accounts to make your business work more smoothly.
    help you to Buy Verified Revolut Accounts.
    Anyone want to Buy Revolut Accounts then visit my website.

    Reply

  6. Future of Exams with Changing Technology” is a thought-provoking topic that likely discusses how advancements in technology are influencing the examination landscape. This review commends the topic for its relevance, acknowledging the impact of technological changes on the assessment methods and processes. The discussion likely explores the potential benefits and challenges associated with integrating technology into exams. It’s a timely exploration of a rapidly evolving educational aspect, offering insights into how assessments may adapt to the changing technological landscape.

    Reply

  7. Great post full of useful tips! My site is fairly new and I am also having a hard time getting my readers to leave comments. We Are Helping To Make Art Accessible With Easy-To-Design, Stylish Neon Lights. All Of The Neon Sign From Lllusion Neon Were Designed In America, And Were Sold To Every State In The U.S. Nowadays Lllusion Neon Is Expanding Its Market All Over The World. Our Becoming More And More Popular In Canada, Europe, And Asia.

    Reply

  8. Get the Latest SZA Merch from official SZA Merchandise Store Get UPTO 50 OFF on Latest SZA CTRL Merch , SZA SOS Merch HURRY UP and Shop Now
    Sza Hoodies

    Reply

  9. Bubblyhub provide high-profile Delhi Escorts service, Independent Delhi Escorts, Book VIP delhi Escort girl at best price with full satisfaction.
    vip escorts in delhi |

    Reply

  10. I think this is a really good article. You make this information interesting and engaging. You give readers a lot to think about and I appreciate that kind of writing. ALPHA TONIC

    Reply

  11. Elevate your celebrations with our party bus atlantic city. Unleash the ultimate party experience on wheels, with vibrant lights and thumping music. Book now for an unforgettable journey with friends!

    Reply

  12. Representing “Primary care physician sugar land Care for lifetime”, we wish to convey our profound appreciation for the insightful content you’ve delivered through your blog. Please note, you can reach us at “physical examination near me“. We truly admire the exceptional content you’ve presented to your readers.

    Reply

  13. I can see that you are an expert at your field! I am launching a website soon, and your information will be very useful for me.. Thanks for all your help and wishing you all the success in your business. u31

    Reply

  14. Dentist in Weston
    At Family Cosmetic Dentistry, you will find your caring general dentist in Weston, FL when you need them. We offer a broad range of services, conducted by specialists when necessary. Located in Bonaventure Town Center, Weston FL. Family Cosmetic Dentistry delivers a trusted and personalized General Cosmetic Dental Care Procedures like Teeth Whitening, Dental Crowns, Bridges, Sealants, Fillings, Veneers, Invisalign, Root Canal, Oral Surgery, Tooth Extractions. Let us help you to revitalize your smile and keep you healthy and beautiful. Visit your friendly local Weston Dentist.

    Reply

  15. I’ve Never Seen Such An Informative Website; It’s A Goldmine Of Knowledge

    Reply

  16. fins168 ขอแนะนำระบบล้ำยุค auto เปลี่ยนวงการ ชี้แนะเพื่อนพ้อง แล้วก็รับค่าคอมมิชชั่น สำหรับทุกการเดิมพัน คุณเป็นแฟนของการเดิมพันออนไลน์ คุณสนุกไปกับความระทึกใจ สำหรับเพื่อการวางเดิมพัน และชนะรางวัลใหญ่หรือไม่ ถ้าหากเป็นอย่างนั้น คุณก็พร้อมแล้ว เรารู้สึกตื่นเต้น ที่ได้ประกาศการเปิดตัวระบบยุคสมัยใหม่ ที่ก้าวล้ำ ซึ่งเป็นแพลตฟอร์มที่ไม่เฉพาะแต่ช่วยปรับคุณเพลิดเพลิน กับเกมที่คุณชอบใจ แต่ยังให้รางวัลแก่คุณ ในการแนะนำมิตรสหายให้เล่นอีกด้วย เป็นแพลตฟอร์มการเดิมพันออนไลน์ ที่ทันสมัยที่นำเสนอเกม ตัวเลือกการเดิมพันกีฬา รวมทั้งอื่นๆล้นหลาม ด้วยระบบที่ทันสมัย และก็ใช้งานง่าย มอบประสบการณ์ การเล่นเกมที่ราบระรื้น ไม่มีใครเหมือน

    Reply

  17. Are you looking to Buy Yelp Reviews? If Yes, this is the Best Website for you.
    We provide 100% parmanent Buy Yelp Reviews Service at the Cheapest Price. Our Dedicated Experienced Team Always ready to Respond 24/7 Days.

    Reply

Leave a Reply

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