Introduction of Community
The community is located in Miami, Florida. Its territory is about 1,898.6 square miles meaning that 1,418.5 people live per square mile (Census Reporter, 2017). However, it is not always possible to meet so many people outside in the daytime because many of them are in their offices or homes. Little Havana is a neighborhood for the survey. Its distinctive feature is the presence of many Cuban exiles and immigrants from different regions of South and Central America (Fernandez, 2015; Grenier & Moebius, 2015). Though it is not the richest place in Miami, it is full of specific traditions and cultures that make the community unique.
Windshield Survey
Vitality
In Little Havana, there are many people visible outside. They usually walk, talk to each other, and even dance. There are many children of the school age. They play on the ground, run, and observe each new visitor on their territory. It seems that these little children try to protect their land. The most common race is Cubans with several Hispanics and Latinos. African Americans and Non-Hispanic White can also be observed in Little Havana. Though they appear healthy, it seems that hygiene is not the core of their education, as well as healthy eating. Many children and adults are thin and scantily dressed. Still, they look happy and satisfied with what they have.
Indicators of social and economic conditions
On the territory, there are many family homes, duplexes, boutique condos, and prefabs. Though there are not many rich constructions, it seems that all these areas clean regularly. There are no shade places for people except the territories of parks and squares. This rural area contains several schools where children spend much of their time. There are also several museums and theaters in Little Havana, which prove that social and economic development is present in the neighborhood. There are no huge billboards on the streets. No factories and plants are located there. However, there are many restaurants and cafes where people know each other and like to spend their time.
Health Resources
It is hard to observe any hospital or other medical facilities on the streets of Little Havana. Medical centers and hospitals are not huge (one-stage buildings). Without knowing a direct address, it may be difficult for a person to find it in a short period. There is one homeless veterans’ health care center. Victoria Hospital is the facility where diverse care and support can be offered to all US citizens and legal migrants. No social centers are found during the current windshield survey.
Environmental conditions related to health
There are no evident ground or air pollutants. Still, the absence of shadowed territories and a constant sun can make observant think about dry and hot. Sometimes, it is hard to breathe. There are also many water damage situations and reconstructions during which roads and buildings have to be repaired. Much dust can be observed outside. Roads are not perfect in Little Havana. Many potholes prevent the fast drive. On the one hand, low speed is a challenge for this neighborhood because air is polluted, and traffic jams make people nervous. On the other hand, slow driving is a possibility to keep safety outside. Though there are several parks and special playgrounds for children, it is normal to observe many children playing in the streets close to roads.
Social functioning
Though there are many groups of people communicating in the streets, it is hard to believe that all of them are families. They seem to be close friends or business partners because their conversations are short. Children run fast proving that they are aware of the neighborhood. They know where to stop and where to speed up. During this windshield survey, several pregnant adolescents are observed. They do not receive special treatment, have to wait in lines, and be exposed to sunlight. As for churches, there are several Catholic Churches on the same street meaning that this community supports certain religious beliefs.
Attitude toward healthcare
Folk medicine may be practiced in this neighborhood. Still, during this windshield survey, no remarkable facilities or advertisements are observed. It is difficult to find several small medical centers to ask for professional medical help. No new hospitals are building at the moment. However, there are many free territories in Little Havana. It is possible to build a new medical facility and promote effective health care. Small restaurants are the only new buildings observed on the territory. No health-related events and activities are found.
Vulnerable population
Children and young women may be defined as vulnerable populations. Children spend much time outside without knowing what hygiene is all about, how to protect themselves against the sunlight, and what safety measures should be taken. Many pregnant young women do not get benefits regarding their specific conditions. Poverty, the dry environment, and poor health care are the threats to a vulnerable population of Little Havana who are school-aged children and pregnant women.
Conclusion
In general, Little Havana is a part of Miami, where such healthcare concerns as environmental quality, nutrition, immunization, and access to health care bother people. Despite its location and social environment, these problems are not solved and may become serious threats to a city.
References
Census Reporter. (2017). Miami-Dade County, FL. Web.
Fernandez, C.M. (2015). Leaving Little Havana: A memoir of Miami’s Cuban ghetto. Orlando, FL: Beating Windward Press.
Grenier, G.J., & Moebius, C.J. (2015). A history of Little Havana. Mount Pleasant, CA: History Press.