Medically Speaking Program Highlights Neurological Care Network for Lakelands
October 7, 2026
A national shortage of neurologists is putting Self Regional Healthcare at the forefront of developing a comprehensive network of neurological care in the Lakelands.
During “Neurology Close to Home,” the first program of the 2026 Medically Speaking Series, Dr. Ryan Hakimi discussed that children and adults throughout South Carolina, which ranks third in the nation for its shortage of neurologists, are experiencing months-long wait times for assessment and care.
Hakimi, who recently was named medical director of the Neurology Service Line and the System Stroke medical director at Self Regional Healthcare, said the hospital is recruiting top neurologists for specialty care in areas such as epilepsy, stroke, pediatric neurology, headaches, behavioral neurology and dementias, as well as movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease.
“With the efforts we have underway, patients will not have to go out of state for their care,” said Hakimi, who came to Self Regional after working at Prisma Health in Greenville and the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.
Having a comprehensive neurology system connects three essential areas:
A stronger local system can make neurological care more timely, coordinated and understandable for the community, Hakimi said.
Dr. Matthew Logan, president and CEO of Self Regional Healthcare, said, “The vision for this initiative is big. Part of our effort is because we have patients who come to us from a seven-county area and beyond.”
The goal, Logan said, is to develop a neurosurgery center of excellence, which would be “a gem for the Upstate.”
Speaking to the dozens of Lander University nursing and healthcare majors at the program, Hakimi said the current efforts to develop the comprehensive neurology center will lead to more jobs at Self Regional. “Part of our growth will include those who are seeking jobs as nurses and advanced care providers, as well as those who aspire to be doctors.”
The Medically Speaking series is sponsored by the Self Regional Healthcare Foundation in partnership withLander University and the Greenwood SC Chamber of Commerce.
The other Medically Speaking programs this fall will include “The Growing Years: Exploring Pediatric Care,” on Thursday, Oct. 15, featuring Dr. Viarda Polanco and Dr. Ingrid Valente, of Pediatric Associates Greenwood, and “Inside Endocrinology: Understanding Your Body’s Balance,” on Tuesday, Nov. 10, featuring Dr. Karen John, of Full Circle Care at Self Regional Healthcare.
Each program begins at 5:30 p.m. at Lander University and will include time for questions from the audience.
