The University of South Carolina opened its seventh Brain Health clinic during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 20 in Orangeburg, South Carolina.
Highlighting the expansion of neurological care in the Palmetto State, the event included remarks from USC’s President Michael Amiridis, HopeHealth’s CEO Carl Humphries and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ed Behling, and State Rep. Gilda Cobb-Hunter.
Background
Created to meet the needs of patients and caregivers in rural and underserved areas, the USC Brain Health Network partners with health systems to provide equitable diagnostic and treatment access for individuals seeking cognitive care.
- Additional clinic locations include Columbia, Darlington, Lexington, Senecca, Sumter and Winnsboro.
- A Brain Health Center in Columbia will open in 2026 to support patients and clinical providers through innovative research and advanced imaging and treatment options.
How it works
HopeHealth will host USC Brain Health’s team-based care model, connecting patients to a nurse practitioner, speech-language pathologist and community health worker to bridge critical gaps in early diagnosis, education and family support.
“Cognitive health is deeply personal, for patients and their loved ones,” says Dr. Edward Behling, HopeHealth Chief Medical Officer. “Through our collaboration with the USC Brain Health Network, we’re giving families answers and support much sooner than ever before.”
Why it matters
South Carolinians are at a greater risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias when compared to other states.
- Orangeburg County ranks eighth out of 3,142 counties nationwide for Alzheimer’s incidence — with an estimated 15.2% of adults ages 65+ impacted.
- More than 120,000 South Carolinians aged 45 and older have Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
- High rates of heart disease and stroke are contributing factors, as well as an aging population.
"We know Alzheimer’s and dementia affect not only individuals, but entire families and communities. By partnering with HopeHealth, we are helping ensure Orangeburg County has more tools and the support it needs to face these challenges head-on.”