SCETV explores changes and challenges in healthcare in new episode of IMPACT South Carolina and live episode of Palmetto Perspectives
September 17, 2026
South Carolina ETV (SCETV) announces the premiere and screening of a new episode of IMPACT South Carolina(opens in new tab) as well as an opportunity for the public to be part of the live studio audience for Palmetto Perspectives(opens in new tab) on Sept. 24. The public is invited (opens in new tab)to watch the IMPACT South Carolina episode titled “The Healthcare Conundrum: Changes and Challenges,” followed by a live broadcast of the SCETV series, Palmetto Perspectives focused on the evolving healthcare system and the challenges facing patients and providers.
IMPACT South Carolina is an investigative series produced by SCETV, created to explore significant issues impacting South Carolinians. The newest episode, “The Healthcare Conundrum: Changes and Challenges,” examines many of the forces reshaping healthcare, from changes in the doctor-patient relationship to evolving care models, a greater use of technology, and the increasing influence of insurance companies.
From the decline in private medical practices to the growth in hospital consolidations and corporate ownership, this episode considers how changes within one sector of the healthcare system often create unintended consequences in other areas. The episode also candidly explores the impact of cost while considering ongoing questions about access, affordability and the future shape of our healthcare system.
Through conversations with healthcare professionals, stakeholders and concerned individuals, “The Healthcare Conundrum” examines how healthcare has evolved over the past 25 years and what those changes mean for patients and the healthcare system. Featured interviewees include Thornton Kirby, president and CEO of the South Carolina Hospital Association; Anthony Jackson, senior vice president and chief community officer at Prisma Health; Dr. Conigliaro Jones, family practice physician at TLM Medical Services; Dr. Henry “Fritz” Butehorn, an ENT specialist and past president of the SC Medical Association. Also included in the episode are Trey Walker, CEO of the South Carolina Alliance of Health Plans; Kathy Schwarting, CEO Palmetto Care Connections; Cindy Dreher, adjunct professor with the USC School of Public Health; and TV news anchor Judi Gatson, a caregiver and patient advocate.
IMPACT South Carolina will premiere on ETV on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m., followed by the live episode of Palmetto Perspectives at 7:30 p.m.
Palmetto Perspectives is an SCETV community engagement-focused series that brings stakeholders together to discuss pressing issues facing South Carolina and its communities. The new episode, titled “Who Cares For You,” will explore how population growth, technological advancements and shifting healthcare systems are transforming the doctor-patient relationship in South Carolina. The discussion will examine challenges affecting access to care, changes underway across the state and what individuals can do to better understand and navigate their healthcare decisions.
The public is invited to attend as part of the studio audience for the live episode of Palmetto Perspectives on Sept. 24. Filmed at the SCETV studios in Columbia, attendees will view the episode of IMPACT South Carolina and then hear the discussions during Palmetto Perspectives. Check-in begins at 6 p.m. with a reception at 6:30 p.m. Audience members should be seated by 6:40 p.m. The screening of IMPACT South Carolina will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the live broadcast of Palmetto Perspectives promptly at 7:30 p.m. and conclude by 8:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and early registration(opens in new tab) to participate in the live broadcast is encouraged.
More information about IMPACT South Carolina and Palmetto Perspectives, including re-broadcast dates and viewing options, is available on the SCETV website(opens in new tab). IMPACT South Carolina and Palmetto Perspectives will also livestream simultaneously on SCETV’s YouTube channel(opens in new tab) and Facebook page(opens in new tab). After the premiere, both programs will also be available for on-demand viewing on the SCETV website(opens in new tab) as well as through the SCETV (opens in new tab)and PBS(opens in new tab) apps.
