Quote by Tom Neal, CEO of HCH
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital hosted a ribbon cutting celebration on Monday, Sept. 29, to mark the completion of a $5 million capital investment in its facility.
This milestone event celebrated the addition of a new CT scanner, MRI scanner, expanded therapy gym, and modern laboratory and phlebotomy area—all designed to improve access to high-quality, compassionate care for patients across the Plateau. The improvements are part of a larger $17 million investment by HCA Healthcare in Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.
“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who came out to support this exciting step forward for our hospital,” said Tom Neal, CEO of Highlands-Cashiers Hospital. “These investments are more than just equipment and spaces—they are about elevating care for our neighbors, friends, and families right here in our community.”
The celebration included remarks from Tom Neal; Zach McCluskey, HCA Healthcare North Carolina Division Chief Administrative Officer; Hack Trammell, Chair of the Highlands-Cashiers Hospital Board of Trustees; and Pat Taylor, Mayor of the Town of Highlands. Attendees also enjoyed facility tours and light refreshments following the ceremony.
Highlights of the capital improvements:
CT Scanner:
• New 64-channel / 128-slice CT Scanner with metal reduction software and upcoming cardiac imaging capabilities
• Radiation dose reduction software reducing exposure by up to 40%
New MRI Scanner:
• Advanced metal artifact reduction, AIR Recon technology for faster, clearer scans, and a patient-choice music option for comfort
• In-hospital MRI scanning, eliminating the need for ambulance transfers across the parking lot
Rehabilitation Gym:
• Relocated to a larger, new space for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology
• Private treatment room, fully functional therapeutic kitchen, and specialized equipment tailored to patient-specific care plans
Laboratory and Phlebotomy:
• Full-service laboratory with multiple phlebotomy stations
• Private specimen collection restroom with pass-through door
• Dedicated waiting area, including a private two-chair space
• On-site Workstation on Wheels (WOW cart) for improved staff mobility and patient service
This investment continues the prioritization of rural healthcare and ensures that the community has access to advanced diagnostics and whole-person care without leaving the Plateau.
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital remains committed to building a healthier future—one that brings innovation, recovery, and comfort to every patient we serve.
About Highlands-Cashiers Hospital
Highlands-Cashiers Hospital, a member of Mission Health, an operating division of HCA Healthcare, is a community hospital serving Macon, Jackson and the surrounding counties. Located on Highway 64 between the towns of Highlands and Cashiers, the hospital offers 24/7 emergency care, acute inpatient care, rehabilitation, as well as long-term care through Eckerd Living Center. Highlands-Cashiers Hospital has 24 beds for acute care services and 80 beds in the Eckerd Living Center. Ambulatory services are also available, including therapy services and primary care practices serving both Highlands and Cashiers. For more information, please visit missionhealth.org/highlandscashiers.
- Nancy Lindell
HCA Public & Media Relations