29364, Lockhart, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29364, Lockhart, South Carolina is 18 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 89.23 percent of the residents in 29364 has some form of health insurance. 56.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 40.68 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 29364 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 149 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 10 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29364. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 104 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,850 health care providers accessible to residents in 29364, Lockhart, South Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Lockhart, SC (ZIP Code 29364)

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of healthcare resources relevant to Alzheimer's disease within ZIP code 29364 (Lockhart, South Carolina), focusing on primary care physicians and related services. The "Alzheimer's Score" is a qualitative assessment based on publicly available data, considering factors like physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and the presence of mental health support. This score aims to provide a general understanding of the healthcare landscape and should not be considered a definitive measure of quality.

The foundation of care for Alzheimer's patients often rests with primary care physicians. In Lockhart, the accessibility of these physicians is a critical factor. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate potential challenges in accessing timely appointments and comprehensive care. While precise, real-time physician-to-patient ratios for a specific ZIP code are often difficult to ascertain publicly, general data from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) and the US Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) can provide a broad understanding of healthcare access in Union County, where Lockhart is located. These resources, when combined with local hospital and clinic information, can help determine if Lockhart is underserved.

Standout practices within the area are assessed based on several criteria. Practices demonstrating a commitment to geriatric care, including specialized training for physicians and staff in managing cognitive decline, receive higher marks. The availability of memory clinics or partnerships with neurology specialists is also a significant advantage. Practices actively participating in clinical trials related to Alzheimer's research would be considered highly valuable, reflecting a commitment to staying at the forefront of care. Furthermore, a practice's patient satisfaction scores and online reviews provide additional insight into the patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly vital, particularly for patients with mobility limitations or those residing in rural areas. Practices offering telehealth appointments for initial consultations, follow-up visits, and medication management are considered more accessible. Telemedicine also facilitates access to specialists who might not be readily available locally, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists. The availability of remote monitoring technologies, which allow physicians to track patient health indicators, would further enhance the telemedicine score.

Mental health resources are integral to Alzheimer's care. Patients and caregivers often face significant emotional and psychological challenges. The availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and support groups within the community is crucial. The presence of mental health clinics, particularly those specializing in geriatric mental health, is a significant positive factor. Partnerships between primary care practices and mental health providers, facilitating seamless referrals and coordinated care, are also highly valued. The existence of caregiver support groups, providing education, emotional support, and practical advice, is another crucial element.

The "Alzheimer's Score" for Lockhart, SC (29364) is a composite assessment. It is difficult to provide a specific numerical score without in-depth, proprietary data analysis. However, based on publicly available information, the score is likely to be moderate. The rural nature of the area may present challenges in terms of physician availability and access to specialized services. The presence of a local hospital, such as Union Medical Center, is a positive factor, potentially offering access to specialists and diagnostic services. However, the overall score is influenced by the limited availability of geriatric specialists, the potential for lower telemedicine adoption rates, and the need for more robust mental health resources tailored to the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

The analysis would be improved by detailed information on physician demographics, including age, experience, and specialization. Data on practice affiliations, such as partnerships with hospitals or specialty clinics, would also be valuable. Specific information on telemedicine capabilities, including the types of services offered and the technology used, would further enhance the assessment. Patient satisfaction surveys and online reviews, if available, would provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Finally, a comprehensive understanding of community resources, including support groups, caregiver training programs, and respite care services, would be essential for a complete evaluation.

Further investigation into the specific practices in Lockhart is required. It's necessary to determine the number of primary care physicians accepting new patients and the average wait times for appointments. Assessing the availability of geriatric specialists, such as neurologists and geriatric psychiatrists, is crucial. The extent of telemedicine adoption among local practices needs to be evaluated. The presence and accessibility of mental health services, including therapy and support groups, must be assessed.

The "Alzheimer's Score" is a dynamic measure that can change over time. Healthcare resources evolve, and new initiatives can improve access and quality of care. Regular updates to the analysis are essential to reflect these changes accurately. Community involvement and feedback are also valuable in refining the assessment and identifying areas for improvement.

The healthcare landscape in Lockhart, SC (29364) requires a multi-faceted approach to enhance Alzheimer's care. Efforts should focus on increasing the number of primary care physicians, particularly those with experience in geriatric care. Promoting telemedicine adoption can improve access to specialists and remote monitoring. Expanding mental health resources, including therapy and support groups, is crucial for patients and caregivers. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential to create a comprehensive and supportive environment for individuals living with Alzheimer's disease.

For a comprehensive, interactive map illustrating healthcare resources in Lockhart, SC (29364), including physician locations, clinic information, and available services, visit CartoChrome maps.