29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina is 7 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.03 percent of the residents in 29664 has some form of health insurance. 47.19 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 70.45 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 29664 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 432 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29664. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 498 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 855 health care providers accessible to residents in 29664, Mountain Rest, South Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664)

Analyzing the availability of healthcare resources, particularly for individuals facing Alzheimer's disease, within a specific geographic area requires a multi-faceted approach. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 29664, encompassing the community of Mountain Rest, South Carolina, and assesses the potential support available for patients and their caregivers. The "Alzheimer's Score" isn't a formal metric, but rather a composite assessment considering factors relevant to Alzheimer's care. We'll evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the integration of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and other crucial elements.

The foundation of Alzheimer's care often rests with primary care physicians (PCPs). They are frequently the first point of contact for individuals experiencing cognitive decline and play a critical role in early diagnosis, management of co-morbidities, and referral to specialists. Determining the physician-to-patient ratio in Mountain Rest is essential. Unfortunately, publicly available data on physician distribution at the ZIP code level can be limited. However, we can infer certain realities based on the rural nature of the area and the surrounding counties. Mountain Rest is a small, sparsely populated community. This suggests a potentially lower physician-to-patient ratio compared to more urban areas. This scarcity can create significant challenges for residents seeking timely access to medical care, especially for those needing ongoing monitoring and management of Alzheimer's.

The availability of primary care is further impacted by the operational characteristics of local practices. Are there practices accepting new patients? Do they offer extended hours or weekend appointments? Do they have geriatric specialists or physicians with specific expertise in dementia care? These details significantly impact the accessibility of care. We need to consider the patient's ability to travel. Mountain Rest's location in a mountainous region may necessitate longer travel times to reach healthcare facilities, potentially exacerbating the challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.

Telemedicine has the potential to mitigate some of the geographical barriers to healthcare access. Its adoption rate within the primary care practices in Mountain Rest is a critical factor. Does the local medical community embrace telemedicine? Are virtual consultations readily available for follow-up appointments or medication management? Telemedicine can provide crucial support for patients who have difficulty traveling, and for caregivers who may find it challenging to transport their loved ones to appointments. Furthermore, telemedicine can facilitate access to specialists located outside of the immediate area, such as neurologists or geriatric psychiatrists, who can provide expert consultations.

Mental health resources are integral to the holistic care of individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. The disease often brings with it emotional challenges like anxiety, depression, and behavioral changes. The availability of mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists, psychologists, and licensed clinical social workers, is a crucial aspect of the Alzheimer's Score. Are there local mental health clinics or therapists who specialize in geriatrics or dementia care? Are support groups available for caregivers? These resources can provide essential emotional support, coping strategies, and access to medication management when needed. The absence of these resources can significantly diminish the quality of life for both patients and caregivers.

Beyond primary care and mental health, other factors contribute to the Alzheimer's Score. The presence of memory care facilities or assisted living communities within a reasonable distance is vital. These facilities offer specialized care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's. The availability of home healthcare services, including skilled nursing and personal care assistance, is also crucial, enabling patients to remain in their homes for as long as possible. The availability of these services is a reflection of the overall community's commitment to supporting individuals with Alzheimer's.

Standout practices within the area, if any, should be identified. Are there any primary care practices that have demonstrated a commitment to Alzheimer's care? Do they have dedicated staff trained in dementia care? Do they participate in clinical trials or research related to Alzheimer's? These practices can serve as models for other healthcare providers in the area. They can also be a valuable resource for patients and caregivers seeking specialized care and support.

The Alzheimer's Score for Mountain Rest, SC (ZIP Code 29664) is likely to be affected by the rural nature of the area. The score would be lower if there are fewer resources. The physician-to-patient ratio, the availability of telemedicine, the presence of mental health resources, and the existence of memory care facilities all contribute to the overall score. The community's ability to support individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers is directly related to the availability of these resources.

The challenges faced by individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers are complex and multifaceted. Addressing these challenges requires a collaborative effort involving healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies. By carefully evaluating the availability of healthcare resources and support services, we can gain a better understanding of the needs of the community and identify areas where improvements are needed.

To gain a more visual and interactive understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mountain Rest and surrounding areas, we encourage you to explore the CartoChrome maps. These maps can provide a detailed geographic representation of healthcare resources, allowing you to visualize the distribution of physicians, mental health providers, and other essential services. Click here to explore the CartoChrome maps and gain a deeper understanding of the healthcare resources available in your community.