29148, Summerton, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29148, Summerton, South Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.79 percent of the residents in 29148 has some form of health insurance. 62.74 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 45.13 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 29148 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 750 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29148. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 1,714 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 537 health care providers accessible to residents in 29148, Summerton, South Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease presents a significant challenge, particularly in communities with aging populations. Assessing the resources available to address this illness requires a multifaceted approach, encompassing the availability of primary care physicians, the adoption of innovative healthcare delivery methods, and the integration of mental health services. This analysis will evaluate the landscape for Alzheimer's care in Summerton, South Carolina, focusing on the ZIP code 29148, aiming to provide a comprehensive 'Alzheimer's Score' assessment.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care rests on accessible primary care. In Summerton (29148), the physician-to-patient ratio is a critical metric. A higher ratio, indicating fewer physicians per capita, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, decreased access to preventative care, and potentially delayed diagnoses. Accurate data on the precise physician-to-patient ratio in 29148 requires a detailed examination of the local healthcare system, including the number of practicing primary care physicians, the population size, and the distribution of patients across different practices. Publicly available data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the U.S. Census Bureau are essential resources for this initial assessment.

Standout practices within the area can significantly improve the overall quality of care. Identifying practices that prioritize geriatric care, offer specialized memory clinics, or have staff trained in dementia management is crucial. These practices often implement comprehensive assessment tools, provide ongoing support for patients and caregivers, and coordinate care with specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists. Researching local healthcare providers through online reviews, patient testimonials, and direct inquiries can reveal practices that excel in Alzheimer's care. Examining their websites and promotional materials can also provide insight into their specific offerings and commitment to this patient population.

Telemedicine has emerged as a powerful tool for expanding access to healthcare, especially in rural areas like Summerton. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially increasing the frequency of check-ups. Assessing the adoption of telemedicine in 29148 involves determining which primary care practices offer virtual appointments, the types of services provided through telemedicine (e.g., medication management, follow-up consultations), and the availability of technical support for patients. Examining the technological infrastructure of local healthcare providers and the availability of reliable internet access in the community are also important considerations.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. The disease often brings with it depression, anxiety, and behavioral changes. Evaluating the availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is essential. Assessing the presence of specialized mental health programs for individuals with dementia, support groups for caregivers, and access to medication management services are key factors. The local healthcare system, including hospitals, clinics, and community organizations, must be assessed to determine the availability and accessibility of these resources.

Caregiver support is another vital element. Alzheimer's places a significant burden on caregivers, who often experience stress, burnout, and social isolation. Identifying resources that provide respite care, educational programs, support groups, and counseling services for caregivers is critical. Local organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Association and area agencies on aging, can provide valuable information and support. Assessing the availability and accessibility of these resources in 29148 is essential for a comprehensive Alzheimer's Score.

The 'Alzheimer's Score' for 29148 would be a composite measure, reflecting the strengths and weaknesses across all these areas. It would incorporate the physician-to-patient ratio, the presence of standout practices, the adoption of telemedicine, the availability of mental health resources, and the support available for caregivers. The score would be a valuable tool for understanding the overall capacity of the community to address the needs of individuals with Alzheimer's and their families.

The assessment of the healthcare landscape in 29148 requires ongoing monitoring and updates. The availability of physicians, the adoption of new technologies, and the resources available for mental health and caregiver support can change over time. Regularly updating the Alzheimer's Score would ensure that it remains a relevant and reliable measure of the community's ability to provide quality care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

For a more detailed and visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Summerton (29148) and surrounding areas, consider exploring CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers interactive mapping tools that can visualize physician locations, healthcare facility locations, and other relevant data points. This visual approach can provide a clearer understanding of resource distribution and accessibility, which is invaluable for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.