Introduction of Community
The city under the analysis is Miami, Florida. It has a dense and highly diverse population that is mainly represented by urban citizens. The city has both business and residential areas. Despite the fact that the popularity of business sectors is incomparably higher, there are also several neighborhoods for immigrants (Upper East Side). There are different health problems that are to be addressed by health promotion activities.
Windshield Survey
Vitality
Most Miami citizens are middle-aged. However, one can observe many small kids and pregnant women in the street. The same is not applicable to seniors, whose number is small and who can be encountered mostly in parks. Despite the predominance of European Americans, there are also representatives of other races (Asian Americans, African Americans, etc.). Citizens look rather well off: their clothes are neat and expensive. Besides, most of them are fit and healthy (even the elderly): there are no visible signs of diseases. Only some seniors use a cane or a wheelchair. However, there are many obese people. The city attracts plenty of tourists.
Indicators of social and economic conditions
Public housing is in a good state, and there are mostly single-family homes, especially in the wealthy areas. Transportation is well-equipped, but most people still prefer using cars. There is no problem to reach hospitals and other public facilities. There are many job opportunities; yet, the majority of them come from businesses. The number of the unemployed or homeless is still rather high. It is common for school students to miss classes. The social and political life is active. Some street signs indicate that the key concerns of politicians include HIV and obesity (CDC, 2013). There are numerous educational institutions in the city (both whole-day and part-time).
Health Resources
There are many hospitals and clinics working for different population groups in the city with an easy access to them (University of Miami hospital, Baptist hospital, etc.). If people do not have insurances, they can still be rendered medical aid. One can find not only general services but also those of narrow specialists. There are family-planning centers, blood donation centers, urgent care, mobile health vehicles, etc.
Environmental conditions related to health
Although Miami has a lot of vehicles that can potentially contaminate air and water, it does not seem to be a highly polluted city. There are very few dirty places or buildings that require immediate repair. In general, sanitary conditions are good. The same can be said about roads, which are not damaged (despite the fact that some of them have potholes). The traffic is heavy (mostly around business sectors and touristic attractions). The safety of citizens is ensured by plenty of traffic signs, lights, sidewalks, parking lots and handicapped access areas. The drainage system functions well. Children have plenty of playgrounds, recreational facilities, and entertainment opportunities. The city is full of restaurants and street food vendors.
Social functioning
The most typical family is a married couple having two kids. The population is represented by all generations. Some mothers work, but most of them spend time with children. Neighbors generally communicate with one another; their meetings are regular (especially in sleeping areas). People who belong to different confessions have worship places for their needs.
Attitude toward healthcare
The population prefers traditional medicine; yet, alternative or herbal medicine is also popular (there are practitioners who have such offices). There is advertising of different events connected with health (lectures, conferences, etc.).
Vulnerable population
There are quite many homeless people. However, governmental agencies provide them with food, medicine, and housing (Miami-Dade, 2017). Most of them use these resources willingly. However, some are satisfied with staying in the street and behave aggressively.
Conclusion
It can be stated that Miami has a healthy community with a big amount of available resources, which make it possible for the population to improve health and receive a proper education. Minority groups can also enjoy the same opportunities. The key problems are obesity and homelessness, which arise due to people’s unwillingness to change.
References
CDC. (2013). Community profile: Miami-Dade county, Florida.
Miami-Dade. (2017). Volunteers. Web.