Clemson University, Prisma Health collaborate to bring advanced fMRI imaging technology to Oconee Memorial Hospital for diagnostics and research

On October 7, Clemson University in collaboration with Prisma Health unveiled a new 3T functional magnetic imaging (fMRI) machine at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital. The next-generation, non-invasive scanning technology provides faster, higher quality medical imaging than previously available on the community hospital campus. The new unit will support local clinical diagnostic needs for patients in the Oconee County area and expand research opportunities to study Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.

The 3T fMRI technology will be pivotal in researching and detecting Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative conditions being studied in the Upstate. 3T technology differs from standard MRI units (1.5 T) in that it allows more refined imaging detail, particularly related to changes in the brain, and is a critical tool for research related to aging. "Functional" magnetic resonance imaging (noted by the lowercase f) also measures the tiny changes in blood flow that take place as parts of the brain are working. The machine is an integral component of the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) and will not only help patients and research participants but also aid in recruiting new faculty, researchers and clinicians to the Upstate.

We are thrilled to announce this new MRI technology at Oconee Memorial Hospital that will serve the citizens of South Carolina and beyond. This collaboration with Prisma Health will offer our researchers and patients alike an invaluable resource that will make a lasting impact on health outcomes for generations to come.

WINDSOR SHERRILL, CLEMSON UNIVERSITY ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT FOR HEALTH RESEARCH

Providing this technology at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital also ensures patients who live in Oconee County will no longer have to travel outside of their service area for 3T fMRI imaging for diagnostic evaluation.

Left to right: Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital CEO Hunter Kome; Clemson University Director of the Institute for Engaged Aging Lesley Ross; South Carolina Senate President Senator Thomas C. Alexander; Clemson University Associate Vice President for Health Research Windsor Sherrill; Clemson University Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Robert H. Jones; and Prisma Health Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Jonathan L. Gleason

"This leap forward in our diagnostic capabilities is only possible because of Clemson University and our longstanding partnership," said Hunter Kome, CEO of Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital. "Our hospital is home to the university's Institute for Engaged Aging, which gives people throughout the community the opportunity to participate in studies aimed at helping us age well. We also owe tremendous thanks to South Carolina Senate President Thomas C. Alexander whose steadfast support was essential to this project."

"I am grateful for the strong partnership between Clemson University and Prisma Health which brings the benefits of cutting-edge technology and research directly to our communities," said South Carolina Senate President Thomas Alexander. "I am thrilled to support these two organizations' efforts at improving access to care and leveraging their relationship to improve health outcomes in the Tri-County area and beyond."

The next-generation 3T fMRI imaging technology adds to the University's research activity focused on aging at Prisma Health Oconee Memorial Hospital, as the Institute for Engaged Aging occupies the top floor of the medical center. The institute aims to discover, develop and disseminate best practices for engaged aging through research, education and community outreach. Institute initiatives enable older adults to be engaged in family and community living regardless of their social, economic or health status.

About Clemson University
One of the most productive public research universities in the nation, Clemson University attracts and powerfully unites students and faculty whose greatest desire is to make a difference in the lives of others. Ranked among the best national public universities, Clemson is dedicated to teaching, research and service. Our main campus, located in Upstate South Carolina, sits on 1,400 acres in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, along the shores of Lake Hartwell. We have a presence in every South Carolina county through research facilities, economic development hubs and Innovation Campuses. Through the research, outreach and entrepreneurial projects led by our faculty and students, Clemson University is driving economic development and improving the quality of life in South Carolina and beyond.

About Prisma Health
Prisma Health is a private nonprofit health company and the largest health care organization in South Carolina. The company has 29,309 team members, 18 acute and specialty hospitals, 2,827 licensed beds, 305 practice sites, and more than 5,400 employed and independent clinicians across its clinically integrated inVio Health Network. Along with this innovative network, Prisma Health serves almost 1.5 million unique patients annually in its 21-county market area that covers 50% of South Carolina. Connect with Prisma Health on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter/X. Visit www.PrismaHealth.org.

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