The University of South Carolina opened its new Brain Health Center on March 18, offering specialized diagnostic, treatment, and support services for patients with cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. The center is located on the university’s Health Sciences Campus in a newly renovated, 65,000-square-foot facility.
The Brain Health Center aims to improve access to coordinated care for individuals and families affected by neurological disorders. It brings together clinical services, advanced imaging technology, infusion therapy, rehabilitation programs, and research initiatives under one roof.
USC President Michael Amiridis said: “USC Brain Health is elevating care statewide for families facing Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders by providing critically needed access to timely diagnosis and coordinated care. The Brain Health Center underscores our commitment to delivering world-class cognitive care for all South Carolinians through leading-edge technology, excellent clinicians and expanded research opportunities right here in our home state.”
The facility features 16 exam rooms designed for comprehensive evaluations. Funding included a $30 million allocation from the state for renovations. Federal support secured by Sen. Lindsey Graham helped provide equipment such as South Carolina’s only 7-Tesla MRI dedicated to patient care and a wide-bore 3-Tesla MRI scanner.
Julius Fridriksson, USC’s vice president for research, said: “These MRI scanners, especially the 7-T, are like keys our researchers will use to unlock the secrets of the brain. They will place USC Brain Health at the forefront of patient diagnostics and enable us to expand access to clinical research initiatives in South Carolina.”
Sarah Kirby, associate vice president for clinical affairs at USC added: “Today’s ribbon cutting is a major milestone in providing unparalleled health care to all South Carolinians. We want to ensure the individuals and families confronting cognitive challenges have access to advanced diagnostics, breakthrough treatments and comprehensive care close to home.”
In addition to medical imaging capabilities that allow earlier detection of neurological abnormalities, the center offers an eight-bay infusion suite along with physical therapy spaces aimed at improving mobility and daily living skills.
Future plans include further development of the Health Sciences Campus with construction of a new School of Medicine Columbia facility as well as a neurological hospital and rehabilitation center.