29840, Mount Carmel, South Carolina Alzheimers Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Alzheimers Score in 29840, Mount Carmel, South Carolina is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 94.27 percent of the residents in 29840 has some form of health insurance. 64.12 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 36.64 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 29840 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 13 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 29840. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 148 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 24 health care providers accessible to residents in 29840, Mount Carmel, South Carolina.

## Alzheimer's Score Analysis: Doctors in 29840 and Primary Care in Mount Carmel

This analysis assesses the availability and quality of primary care physicians within the 29840 ZIP code and the broader Mount Carmel area, focusing on factors crucial for individuals and families managing Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to provide an "Alzheimer's Score" by evaluating key indicators, including physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, telemedicine adoption, and access to mental health resources. This will help inform those seeking care and highlight areas for improvement.

The 29840 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Mount Carmel, South Carolina, presents a unique challenge for healthcare access. Rural areas often face shortages of primary care physicians, potentially impacting timely diagnosis and management of complex conditions like Alzheimer's. A critical starting point is understanding the physician-to-patient ratio. Data from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) and state medical boards are essential to determine the number of primary care physicians actively practicing within the 29840 area and the estimated population they serve. A low ratio, indicating a scarcity of physicians, would negatively impact the Alzheimer's Score.

Beyond simple numbers, the characteristics of the practices themselves are important. Do the primary care practices in and around Mount Carmel accept Medicare and Medicaid? These are crucial for many Alzheimer's patients and their families. Practices that accept these insurance plans demonstrate a commitment to serving a broader population, including those with limited financial resources, a common reality for those managing Alzheimer's. Furthermore, the availability of geriatric specialists or physicians with specific training in dementia care significantly enhances the Alzheimer's Score. These specialists possess specialized knowledge and experience to provide comprehensive care, including accurate diagnosis, medication management, and support for both patients and caregivers.

Telemedicine adoption represents a vital component of modern healthcare, especially in rural communities where travel can be a significant barrier. Practices that offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management, receive a higher Alzheimer's Score. Telemedicine can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide timely support for patients and caregivers, particularly during the early stages of diagnosis and ongoing management. The availability of secure online portals for communication and access to medical records also contributes positively to the score.

Mental health resources are inextricably linked to Alzheimer's care. The disease often presents with behavioral and psychological symptoms, requiring access to psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists. The availability of these specialists within the Mount Carmel area significantly impacts the Alzheimer's Score. Are there readily accessible mental health clinics, counseling services, or support groups for both patients and caregivers? A robust network of mental health resources is critical for managing the emotional and psychological challenges associated with Alzheimer's. The presence of memory care centers or assisted living facilities with specialized dementia care units further elevates the score.

The Alzheimer's Score also considers the coordination of care. Practices that actively participate in care coordination, such as sharing medical records with specialists, referring patients to support services, and facilitating communication between different healthcare providers, receive a higher rating. A well-coordinated care system ensures that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care, minimizing fragmentation and improving outcomes. The use of electronic health records (EHRs) that allow for seamless information sharing is a positive factor.

Standout practices within the 29840 area are those that excel in the areas described above. Identifying these practices requires a thorough review of available data, including patient reviews, practice websites, and information from local healthcare organizations. Practices that demonstrate a commitment to patient-centered care, offer comprehensive services, and prioritize the needs of Alzheimer's patients and their families would be highlighted. These practices often serve as models for others in the area.

The Alzheimer's Score is not a static number but a dynamic assessment that reflects the evolving healthcare landscape. Regular updates are crucial to reflect changes in physician availability, telemedicine adoption, and the availability of mental health resources. The score also considers the availability of community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and caregiver training. These resources provide essential support for families navigating the challenges of Alzheimer's.

The quality of primary care in Mount Carmel and the surrounding area directly affects the ability of individuals and families to manage Alzheimer's disease effectively. Addressing the identified shortcomings, such as physician shortages, limited telemedicine adoption, and inadequate mental health resources, is critical. Investing in these areas will improve the quality of life for Alzheimer's patients and their caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Score for doctors in 29840 and primary care availability in Mount Carmel is a complex assessment. It is important to recognize that this analysis is based on available data and may not fully capture the nuances of individual practices. However, it provides a valuable framework for understanding the healthcare landscape and identifying areas for improvement.

To gain a visual understanding of the healthcare landscape in Mount Carmel, including the location of primary care practices, specialists, and support services, we encourage you to explore the interactive maps provided by CartoChrome. CartoChrome's maps can provide detailed information on healthcare resources, helping you make informed decisions about your healthcare needs.