29153, Sumter, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina is 23 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 85.89 percent of the residents in 29153 has some form of health insurance. 41.82 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.82 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 29153 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 3,920 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29153. An estimate of 9 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,742 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,739 health care providers accessible to residents in 29153, Sumter, South Carolina.

Alzheimer's Disease poses a significant public health challenge, particularly in communities with aging populations. Assessing the resources available to address this disease is crucial. This analysis focuses on the availability of healthcare providers and services relevant to Alzheimer's care within ZIP Code 29153 and Sumter County, South Carolina, providing an "Alzheimer's Score" assessment. This score is not a single number but a holistic evaluation based on several factors.

The first critical aspect is physician availability. The physician-to-patient ratio in 29153, and specifically the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs) is a key indicator. A low ratio, meaning fewer doctors per capita, can create barriers to accessing timely diagnosis and ongoing management of Alzheimer's. This is especially critical because PCPs often serve as the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. They can initiate initial assessments, refer patients to specialists like neurologists or geriatricians, and coordinate care.

Furthermore, the presence of geriatricians, neurologists, and psychiatrists within the area is crucial. These specialists possess the expertise to diagnose and treat Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. A shortage of these specialists can lead to longer wait times for appointments, delayed diagnoses, and inadequate care. The geographical distribution of these specialists within the ZIP code and surrounding areas is also important. Easy accessibility, considering factors like transportation and mobility, is vital for patients and their caregivers.

Standout practices in the area are another factor. These practices might demonstrate excellence in Alzheimer's care through specific programs, such as memory clinics, support groups for patients and families, or comprehensive care coordination services. Practices that actively participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's can also be considered standout practices, as they contribute to advancing knowledge and treatment options. Identifying these practices is crucial for patients seeking high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is becoming increasingly relevant in healthcare, and its role in Alzheimer's care is significant. Telemedicine can facilitate remote consultations, medication management, and monitoring of patients, particularly those with mobility limitations or living in rural areas. Practices that have embraced telemedicine can improve access to care and reduce the burden on patients and caregivers. The availability of telehealth services, including the types of services offered (e.g., virtual appointments, remote monitoring), and the ease of use of the technology are important considerations.

Mental health resources are another critical component of the Alzheimer's Score. Alzheimer's often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists, is essential for providing comprehensive care. The presence of specialized mental health services for older adults, such as geriatric psychiatry, is particularly beneficial. Access to support groups and counseling services for caregivers is also a vital aspect of mental health resources.

The availability of support services for Alzheimer's patients and their families is also a factor. This includes resources like home healthcare agencies, adult day care centers, respite care services, and community-based support programs. These services provide essential assistance with daily living activities, offer caregivers a much-needed break, and help patients maintain their independence for as long as possible. The accessibility and affordability of these services are also important considerations.

Primary care availability in Sumter County, as a whole, is a significant factor. The overall density of PCPs, the availability of same-day appointments, and the acceptance of various insurance plans are crucial. Adequate primary care access is essential for early detection, ongoing management, and coordination of care for individuals with Alzheimer's. If primary care access is limited, this will negatively impact the overall Alzheimer's Score.

A comprehensive analysis of the Alzheimer's Score requires considering all these factors. The score is not a simple calculation but a nuanced assessment that reflects the availability, accessibility, and quality of care and support services within the specified geographic area. The score can be used to identify areas of strength and weakness in Alzheimer's care, inform healthcare planning, and guide patients and caregivers in their search for appropriate resources.

To gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare landscape in ZIP Code 29153 and Sumter County, consider utilizing CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps provide interactive visualizations of healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician locations, practice specialties, and the availability of other relevant resources. By using CartoChrome maps, you can gain a more detailed and visual understanding of the resources available to address Alzheimer's disease in the area.