The University of South Carolina (USC) and Prisma Health are launching the Brain Health Center in Columbia, which will provide advanced diagnostics and treatments for patients with complex neurological conditions. The center will feature a 3 Tesla MRI scanner and the state's first 7 Tesla MRI scanner, enabling high-resolution imaging capable of detecting minute brain lesions associated with epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders. The center will also offer structured lifestyle programs, patient and caregiver support, group classes, and community education.

Anthony "Tony" Asher, MD, has been appointed as the new president of the Prisma Health Neurosciences Institute and will oversee neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry across the enterprise. Asher is a practicing neurosurgeon and internationally recognized neuroscientist who has held several senior leadership roles, including president of the Neurosciences Institute at Atrium Health. He has authored or co-authored over 260 peer-reviewed publications and has helped establish programs in neuro-oncology and clinical data science. Asher will collaborate with stakeholders across Prisma Health and the University of South Carolina Schools of Medicine to develop a visionary model for the future of neurosciences care and research.

Prisma Health has appointed Steve LeBlond as its new Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Digital Officer. With over two decades of experience in healthcare technology leadership, LeBlond will lead the organization's technology strategy, focusing on digital transformation, artificial intelligence adoption, and innovation to enhance patient care and operational excellence. LeBlond's appointment is expected to help Prisma Health stay at the forefront of healthcare technology, delivering exceptional care and improving patient outcomes.

Prisma Health officials are encouraging people to seek medical attention quickly when they fall ill during flu season, as early treatment can lead to quicker recovery. The state is currently one of the hardest-hit states in regard to this flu season, and vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against infections. The officials also emphasize that it is important to get a clear idea of what illness one needs to treat, as COVID-19, influenza, strep, and RSV are all potential concerns during this time of year.

Prisma Health officials discussed the changes to national childhood vaccine guidelines announced by the CDC. The new recommendations divide the immunization schedule into three categories: immunizations recommended for all children, immunizations recommended for certain high-risk populations, and immunizations based on shared decision making. The new schedule recommends vaccines against 10 diseases, a decrease from the prior 17 required immunizations. All immunizations recommended as of Dec. 31, 2025, will continue to be fully covered by Affordable Care Act insurance plans and federal insurance programs.

Prisma Health has launched the Sickle Cell Lifespan Center, a systemwide program that provides comprehensive care for patients with sickle cell disease. The center has two dedicated clinics in Greenville and Columbia, and offers advanced services including access to disease-modifying medications, blood transfusions, transformative therapies and clinical trials for emerging treatments. The program is part of national and international sickle cell networks, allowing Prisma Health specialists to collaborate globally and bring the latest research and best practices to South Carolina patients.

Prisma Health Children's Hospital in Greenville has opened a new, expanded unit with support from local groups, community members, nonprofit Hogs for the Cause, and the South Carolina state legislature. The $7.5 million space, named the Prisma Health Children's Hospital - Upstate Hogs for the Cause Pediatric Hematology Oncology Unit, will provide care for children and adolescents with cancer and blood disorders. The unit includes nine inpatient rooms, a day-stay room, a consultation room, and a two-room suite for families in end-of-life situations. Patient family suggestions were incorporated into the design to support families both medically and mentally during hospitalizations.

Prisma Health will begin site preparation this fall on a $350 million expansion at its Greer Memorial Hospital campus. This project is set to double patient beds and expand outpatient care with the construction of a medical park. The expansion includes new pediatric and cardiovascular specialty units, expansions of the emergency department, labor and delivery, intensive care and surgical units, and additional primary and specialty care offices. Construction will be done in phases and is expected to be completed in early 2028.

Prisma Health appoints Anthony Jackson as senior vice president of service lines and chief community officer.