CareSouth Carolina Patient One of the First in the National to Receive Alzheimer's Treatment

A CareSouth Carolina patient is among the first in the United States to receive a groundbreaking treatment aimed at slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that remains one of the leading causes of death in the country.

Robert Vick, a Cheraw resident, is receiving infusions of the drug Kisunla at CareSouth Carolina in Hartsville. This drug, designed to treat early symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is offering new hope to patients and their families.

Jennifer Lynch, FNP-C, a family nurse practitioner at CareSouth Carolina, explains how Alzheimer’s disease is typically diagnosed.

“We determine whether patients have Alzheimer’s through specific imaging studies, like a PET scan, or by performing cerebral spinal fluid testing to measure the amount of amyloid present in their brain,” Lynch said.

Lynch explained that while amyloid is a protein found in everyone's brain, an excessive buildup can interfere with memory and cognitive function.

Vick, who received his first Kisunla infusion last month and a second treatment just last week, shared why he decided to pursue this treatment option.

“I actually asked for it,” he said. “My wife had already started on a different medication, and I noticed I was struggling to remember names. My wife and daughter quickly urged me to go see my family doctor.”

Lynch emphasized the convenience and effectiveness of Kisunla, noting that the treatment only requires a brief monthly visit.

“The great thing about Kisunla is that it’s a 30-minute IV infusion administered every four weeks, which is very manageable,” Lynch explained. “What’s even more impressive is that the drug has been shown to reduce amyloid plaques by 60% after six months and up to 80% after 12 months.”

Vick expressed his gratitude for the treatment, emphasizing his desire to maintain a good quality of life.

“At my age, I know I don’t have many years left, but I want them to be as good as possible,” he said. “I don’t want to lose everything.”

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer’s, it is strongly recommended to seek the advice of a trusted healthcare provider.

CareSouth Carolina’s CareFusion program, located in Suite B at the CSC Hartsville office (1268 S. Fourth Street), offers IV infusions for several conditions with the goal of giving patients a higher level of care without having to be in the hospital.

CareSouth Carolina Provider Jennifer Lynch, FNP-C, oversees the treatment given to patients through the program. Employed by CareSouth Carolina since July of 2015, she is a well-known provider who has demonstrated her passion to go above and beyond to help her patients. She has also been voted the Best Family Nurse Practitioner in the Pee Dee by the Florence Morning News.

IV Infusion can be used to treat an array of conditions, including Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s Disease, Osteoporosis, hypoglycemia, Anemia, and many more. Patients can also pay by cash for Vitamin and Mineral infusions that help to boost their immune system, help with weight loss, and much more.

IV Infusions aren’t just for CareSouth Carolina patients. Anyone can have their specialist send Lynch’s team their information, and the team will get all prior authorizations needed to enroll the patient in the program with a very quick turnaround.

For more information on the CareFusion program or to get details on how you can receive treatment, please call them at 843-758-0044.