2026 Wellness Forecast: Personalized, Smarter Care Ahead

How smarter tools and personalized care are shaping health in the year ahead

Story by Lance Hanlin

Health in 2026 looks less like a checklist and more like a conversation: one that’s personal, proactive and rooted in real life. Across the Lowcountry, physicians and wellness experts are moving away from one-size-fits-all care and toward smarter tools, earlier answers and treatment plans shaped around the individual. From primary care and mental health to vision, mobility, dentistry and cancer detection, innovation is meeting intention in ways that feel practical, not overwhelming. This year’s wellness forecast brings together insights from trusted local specialists who are on the front lines of that change. They’re embracing technologies that catch problems sooner, reduce unnecessary interventions and help patients stay active, confident and engaged at every stage of life. The takeaway is simple. Wellness isn’t just about living longer. It’s about living better, with care that feels informed, human and tailored to you.

Technology that supports human connection

Mental health care in 2026 is balancing innovation with intention, using technology to enhance care without replacing the human connection at its core. Dr. Patrick Wiita, who is triple board-certified in adult psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry and forensic psychiatry, says the year ahead will be defined by careful, patient-centered use of emerging tools.

What trends do you see coming in 2026? Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere, and possibly already in your doctor’s office. The current focus in the mental health field is in using AI to streamline administrative tasks, such as clinical documentation, so that your doctor or therapist can be as present as possible during your session. The technology is still quite a ways off from being useful for making diagnostic or treatment decisions.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about? AI-enhanced virtual reality exposure therapy for the treatment of phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other anxiety disorders is likely to become more affordable and widely available. This technology has shown promise in the research setting, particularly with military veterans, for many years and combines highly personalized technology-driven care with the currently most effective evidence-based therapeutic strategies.

Virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET) uses immersive, controlled VR environments to help patients safely face feared situations such as heights, flying, spiders or combat scenarios as an effective treatment for phobias, PTSD and anxiety disorders.

A smarter path to midlife health

Primary care is shifting in ways that feel more personal and more empowering, especially for women navigating midlife changes. Dr. Stephen Luther, a board-certified internal medicine specialist and founder of Symbios Health, says 2026 will bring long-awaited clarity to women’s health and promising tools in regenerative care.

What trends do you see coming in 2026? As 2026 dawns, women’s health is entering a brighter era, with groundbreaking FDA updates clearing decades of fear around hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause — removing outdated warnings and spotlighting its power to ease hot flashes, boost bone health, sharpen memory and even guard against heart disease and cognitive decline, all while showing no increased cancer risk for appropriate candidates. We are championing this shift through our SymbiosStrongHer Movement, empowering women to reclaim their vitality by understanding their unique hormonal, metabolic, nutritional, strength and mobility needs.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about? In 2026 a natural, cutting-edge wave is sweeping beauty and intimacy — using nothing more than your own blood and a small amount of your own fat. We are helping patients turn back the clock with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and autologous adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC). These gentle, in-office treatments deliver smoother, glowing skin, fuller facial and body contours and thicker, healthier hair that looks completely natural— while quietly transforming sexual health by restoring confidence, comfort, stronger performance for men and renewed sensation and pleasure for women.

Vampire facial procedures use platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from your own blood to stimulate natural collagen production, improve skin tone and texture, restore subtle volume and reveal a healthier, more youthful glow.

Smarter tools, earlier answers

Oncology is entering a period of rapid innovation, with technology reshaping how cancers are detected, monitored and treated. Dr. Gary W. Thomas, a hematologist and oncologist at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion at St. Joseph’s/Candler – Bluffton Campus, says 2026 will bring meaningful steps toward earlier diagnoses and more personalized care.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?Advances in AI. Though my practice does not yet use AI, its use in the field of oncology has already and will continue to improve the interpretation of pathology slides and imaging. AI tools assist doctors with detecting and analyzing cancer cells in ways that can be challenging for the human eye alone to spot. The benefits will be increased accuracy and earlier diagnoses, which typically translate to more favorable patient outcomes. It’s important to note that the healthcare industry as a whole is researching the safest and most effective ways to deploy AI in healthcare. AI models are also impacting cancer drug development and individualized patient treatment plans. AI models are being tested to predict patients’ responses to drugs as well as in the areas of day-to-day clinical support and connecting oncology expertise to underserved communities. While still in the very early phases, I predict AI use in oncology may be the most important potential cancer-field breakthrough in my lifetime.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about?Circulating Tumor DNA (or ctDNA) testing. A personalized blood test that can be used to detect microscopic traces of cancer cells in the blood of an individual, which can be used to monitor for early recurrence of cancer much earlier than traditional radiographic imaging would allow. The test also can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments, which could eliminate potentially unnecessary treatments for patients or determine the need to intensify necessary chemotherapy treatments. Prospective clinical trials are currently underway, and while the test can detect for any cancer, it is most used currently with colorectal cancer patients. In short, the net benefits to patients would be earlier diagnosis of disease recurrence, thus better long-term outcomes, thanks to a lesser need for taxing treatments and radiation exposure, which also lower overall patient costs. I predict a massive expansion of the use of this technology over the next five years.

Circulating tumor DNA testing offers earlier, more precise detection of cancer recurrence, giving patients a better chance at effective treatment with fewer unnecessary therapies.

Clearer vision through personalized care

Eye care is becoming increasingly individualized as patients look for treatment plans tailored to their specific needs, concerns and goals.
Dr. Scott K. Schultz, senior partner at Bishop Eye Center and a specialist in laser cataract surgery and glaucoma, says that connection and precision will shape the year ahead.

What trends do you see coming in 2026? I predict that in 2026 the trend of patients seeking personalized eye care will continue, with treatment plans specifically tailored to their individual needs, concerns and goals. To make this possible, it’s essential to engage with patients and truly understand their unique eye care challenges. Whether developing treatment plans for conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome or offering solutions such as contact lenses, glasses or laser vision correction, communication plays a critical role in delivering effective care. Equally important is having a team of dedicated eye care professionals working together to support each patient’s journey. We are proud to offer a team of professionals who not only provide expert care but also take the time to listen to and understand our patients. With state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, ongoing education and years of experience, we are able to create customized treatment plans that deliver targeted, meaningful results — all within a friendly and comfortable clinical environment. We are committed to treating each patient as an individual, exceeding expectations and building lasting trust with the people of the Lowcountry. We want our friends and neighbors to turn to us for all their eye care needs.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about?Innovation continues to drive the exceptional care we provide to our community. In 2023 Cassini — a global leader in surgical precision — selected Bishop Eye Center as one of only three centers worldwide to help develop its advanced iris-registration software. This technology precisely maps each patient’s iris and scleral anatomy, enabling exceptionally accurate alignment of astigmatism-correcting intraocular lenses during cataract surgery. Building on this collaboration, Cassini has now chosen Bishop Eye to be the only center in the world to assist in developing Cassini’s next major innovation: their groundbreaking Ambient ophthalmic device. Through this collaborative partnership our early research and clinical insights are helping shape the future of ophthalmology, driving progress that leads to more accurate surgical planning and better outcomes for our patients.

Designed for exceptional precision, Cassini Ambient provides real-time anatomical data that supports more accurate lens alignment and improved visual results.

Precision care for every generation

Urology is evolving quickly, with advances in robotics and minimally invasive techniques, helping patients of all ages recover faster and maintain better long-term health. Dr. Maurizio Buscarini, a board-certified and fellowship-trained urologist with Beaufort Memorial Urology Specialists in Beaufort and Okatie, says 2026 will bring major steps forward in surgical innovation and preventive care.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?One major trend is the expansion of single-port robotic urological surgery into non-academic medical centers, including community hospitals. This minimally invasive approach, which is used to treat prostate, bladder and kidney conditions, requires only one incision. It offers significant benefits for patients, such as less pain, quicker recovery and an earlier return to daily activities. In some cases, patients are even able to go home the same day. Another important shift is the growing focus on proactive healthcare for adults over 80. As people live longer, many older adults remain active and healthier than previous generations, which creates opportunities for preventive urologic care and surgical treatments once considered off-limits. Our population is aging, but overall health is improving. We must be prepared to meet the evolving needs of this demographic.

Are there any new technologies that you’re excited about?The single-port robotic system is one of the most exciting advancements in our field. It represents a new standard of care because it allows procedures to be done through a single incision while reducing complications and improving precision. Focal therapy is also gaining momentum as a minimally invasive option for patients with non-aggressive prostate cancer. By targeting only the cancerous tissue and preserving healthy portions of the gland, patients experience fewer side effects than with more aggressive treatments. Many can undergo the procedure on an outpatient basis. We are also seeing meaningful growth in kidney-sparing techniques and the broader movement toward outpatient surgery for cancer patients. These approaches help maintain kidney function and significantly shorten recovery times. Advances in minimally invasive kidney stone treatment are another exciting area. Miniaturized scopes and vacuum-assisted systems such as ClearPetra are transforming care by delivering excellent results with far less trauma to the body. These newer techniques have largely replaced older procedures that required larger incisions and much longer recovery periods.

Single-port robotic urological surgery uses one small incision to perform complex procedures like prostatectomies, kidney surgeries and bladder surgery, with robotic instruments and a camera passing through a single port, offering less pain, faster recovery and shorter hospital stays. 

A healthier smile through smarter tools

Dental care is entering a more precise and preventive era, driven by artificial intelligence, digital design and a deeper understanding of how oral health shapes overall wellness. Dr. Susan Couzens, DMD, of Couzens Dental, says 2026 will bring a more integrated and personalized approach to keeping the mouth and body healthy.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?Advancements in dental AI will dramatically increase our accuracy in diagnosing cavities, gum disease and bite issues. Real-time analysis of radiographs, 3D scans and patient health data will help us catch problems earlier and with greater precision. CEREC technology is also evolving. It now uses smarter margin-detection algorithms, faster milling and an expanded range of ceramics and hybrid materials to create natural-looking inlays, onlays, veneers and multi-unit restorations in a single visit. These tools are encouraging dentists to pursue deeper training in digital workflows, AI-guided design and advanced restorative techniques to ensure the highest-quality outcomes. Salivary testing will also become a key part of dental care in 2026. These tests identify oral pathogens, inflammatory markers and systemic-risk indicators, allowing for earlier, more personalized preventive care. Combined with our growing understanding of the mouth-body connection, including its links to cardiovascular disease, diabetes and autoimmune conditions, dentistry is becoming more integrated, preventive and holistic than ever before.

Are there any new technologies you are excited about?We have used CEREC technology since 2020 and continue to expand our digital capabilities with the support of a certified laboratory technician. We also incorporate state-of-the-art salivary testing to provide early warnings that help patients maintain both oral and systemic health. These tools allow us to deliver restorative care with exceptional precision while supporting long-term wellness.

CEREC (Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics) is a dental technology that lets dentists design, mill and place high-quality, all-ceramic dental restorations like crowns, veneers, inlays and onlays in a single visit, eliminating the need for messy impressions or temporary crowns. 

Practical tools for healthier living

After more than 45 years in practice, Dr. Joel Johnson III has seen medicine evolve in remarkable ways. At Main Street Medical, he says 2026 will bring even more accessible treatments and a new level of patient engagement driven by everyday technology.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?We expect to see much wider availability of GLP-1 medications. Prices are coming down, access is improving, and the need is tremendous. These medications aren’t just for weight loss or diabetes management. They can be truly life-changing. We’re learning more each year about additional benefits, including improvements in sleep apnea, cholesterol and blood pressure. As research grows and availability expands, I think more people will be able to use these tools to improve their overall health.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about?Technology is making its way into everyday medicine in a big way. Wearable devices are one of the most exciting changes. Apple Watches and Oura Rings now track everything from heart rate and blood pressure to EKG readings. Activity apps offer workout guidance and monitor progress, including a modified VO2 max test that gives a quick snapshot of cardiovascular fitness. The sleep-tracking features are incredibly useful. I check mine every morning. These devices are fun to use, but more importantly, they give patients real information that can help guide healthier habits.

Dr. Joel Johnson III of Main Street Medical champions wearable devices like the Apple Watch and Oura Ring, which help patients keep a closer eye on everything from heart rhythms to sleep quality.

Earlier answers, fewer disruptions

Urology is entering a new era where smarter tools are helping physicians detect cancer earlier while minimizing stress and unnecessary procedures for patients. Dr. Eric Gwynn, a board-certified urologist at Novant Health Coastal Carolina Medical Center, says 2026 will continue pushing care toward greater precision and confidence.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?We’re moving toward a future where cancer detection is smarter, more precise and less disruptive to patients’ lives. In urology, that means using advanced imaging and tools that let us be selective about when and where we biopsy or treat cancer. The goal isn’t simply to find disease; it’s to do it with fewer procedures, less uncertainty and more confidence in the results. That shift is especially important in community-focused hospitals like ours, where getting clear answers faster can reduce anxiety and help people move forward with the right plan.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about?I’m very excited about a new prostate biopsy needle system called SUREcore, which we’ve recently introduced here. I had the opportunity to help evaluate this next-generation biopsy method through clinical trials, and I’ve seen how it improves what matters most — the quality of the tissue we collect. Biopsy may sound routine, but the tiny samples we collect drive every decision that follows. This new system helps us gather cleaner, more complete tissue, which leads to more accurate results, fewer repeat biopsies and better information to choose the right treatment for each individual patient. It’s a small change in the procedure, but it can make a big difference in someone’s diagnosis and peace of mind. I was also invited to share our experience at the American Urological Association’s 2025 Annual Meeting in Las Vegas. Seeing how this technology is gaining interest nationwide reinforces how meaningful it can be for patients. The best part is that people in our community can now access this level of technology without having to travel far from home.

The SUREcore Needle is a specialized, single-use prostate biopsy system that captures larger, cleaner and more intact tissue samples than standard needles, reducing fragmentation and crush artifacts to support more accurate cancer diagnosis.

Built for longevity and movement

Wellness in 2026 is shifting away from reactive care and toward strategies that help people stay active, mobile and independent for longer. Dr. Heather Hinshelwood of The Fraum Center says the year ahead will continue to emphasize prevention, restoration and personalized support for long-term health.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?In 2026 I expect a continued shift toward proactive wellness that focuses on longevity, prevention and mobility. More people want care that helps them stay active and independent instead of simply reacting to pain or injury. This aligns with our Relieve, Restore, Revitalize model about helping patients live the healthiest and most vibrant life possible. I am especially excited about the continued growth of restorative medicine. These approaches give patients new options to support their body’s natural repair processes while addressing the root contributors to pain and movement limitations. At Fraum Health we evaluate each patient as a whole person to determine
whether these strategies may support their goals. This will remain a key part of our 2026 plan.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about?New noninvasive technologies are becoming much more precise and patient focused. I look forward to advances in laser-based therapies, improved spinal decompression systems and tools that enhance posture, gait and recovery. These technologies help us deliver more personalized and effective care while improving comfort and outcomes for patients. A major trend is the increased use of individualized, data-driven insights. Wearables and advanced diagnostics are giving people a clearer understanding of how lifestyle, stress, movement and sleep affect their long-term health. This helps patients take an active role in their wellness journey and strengthens the collaborative approach we use at Fraum Health. Wellness in 2026 will be defined by prevention, personalization and meaningful patient partnership.

Proactive, personalized care is helping locals stay mobile, confident and fully engaged in the activities they love at every stage of life.

Frames with personality, lenses with precision

Eyewear in 2026 is about contrast and customization, pairing bold style statements with smarter lens technology. Billy Simmons, LDO at Eyeland Optique, says the year ahead invites people to think of eyewear as both fashion and function.

What trends do you see emerging in 2026? Spring eyewear trends are all about contrast — bold geometric shapes on one end and minimal metal or acetate styles on the other. It’s the perfect season for building an eyewear wardrobe, and there’s no reason you can’t enjoy both. On days when you want to stand out, bold geometric frames are ideal. Think large angular silhouettes inspired by the ’60s and ’70s: oversized squares, octagons and dramatic butterfly shapes. For a more understated look, minimal metals and acetates offer clean, classic simplicity. They’re far from boring, often featuring unique finishes and rich, subtle colors. Another key look for 2026 is the return of the oval shape — timeless, flattering and easy to wear.

Are there any new technologies you are excited about? The world of AI is driving major advancements in prescription lenses, especially progressive designs. By analyzing millions of lens prescriptions, designers can create wider peripheral viewing zones, smoother transitions and larger reading areas. When we combine these AI-enhanced designs with the precise measurements we take in-office after choosing your frame, you get the best vision possible, with minimal distortion, compared to basic progressive lenses.

In 2026 getting the latest vision technology no longer means sacrificing style. Today’s eyewear blends fashion-forward frames with advanced, AI-designed lenses that deliver clearer, more comfortable vision.

Sharper vision, smarter aesthetics

Eye care is becoming more precise, more personal and more holistic as advanced surgical tools merge with aesthetic technologies that support both vision and confidence. Dr. Jane Kokinakis, a board-certified ophthalmologist at Beaufort Eye Center, says 2026 will continue pushing the field toward individualized care.

What trends do you see coming in 2026?In 2026 we expect eye care to continue moving toward even greater precision and personalization. Cataract surgery will keep advancing with minimally invasive techniques, next-generation surgical platforms and state-of-the-art lens designs that sharpen vision at every distance — near, intermediate and far. In eye wear, oversized but well-balanced frames are here to stay, joined by dramatic, non-traditional shapes that bring a fresh artistic edge. Lightweight, minimal designs like rimless styles will continue trending, and color palettes will lean soft and sophisticated with mint greens, lavenders, blush tones and earthy neutrals. Blue-light filtration and digital eye-strain protection will remain essential as screen time continues to shape daily life.

Are there any new technologies you’re excited about? Absolutely — it’s an energizing time in our field. We are thrilled to expand into advanced physician-directed aesthetics, offering state-of-the-art treatments that support both eye health and overall skin rejuvenation. Our state-of-the-art dry eye therapeutics now include IPL (intense pulsed light) technology, which improves tear function while also addressing pigmentation and vascular concerns. We’re also introducing triLift, a breakthrough technology that provides a face-lift-like effect with no injections, no surgery and no downtime. These innovations let us care for patients more holistically — eyes, skin, confidence and well-being, all in one place.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) offers a non-invasive way to ease dry eye discomfort while brightening and smoothing the skin. It’s also an effective option for gentle, targeted facial hair removal.

Move well, live well 

Staying mobile and pain-free matters in the Lowcountry, especially if you spend your days swinging a golf club, chasing pickleballs, biking the island paths or simply enjoying time outside. Many locals want to stay active without turning to invasive treatments. Dr. Ken Horup of Discover Specific Chiropractic, a board-certified neuropathy specialist, says the future of spine and nerve care is moving toward smarter, more personalized solutions that help people keep doing what they love.

What trends do you expect to shape neuropathy and spine care in 2026?High-powered laser therapy is becoming more precise and clinically effective. It allows us to achieve deeper penetration into the body to improve circulation, reduce inflammation and support nerve regeneration in ways we couldn’t a decade ago. I’m looking forward to the ways we can promote faster healing throughout the body. I also enjoy educating patients on the purpose of different light therapies, how they function and the most effective ways to use them to treat their condition.

What new technologies are you excited about?In 2026 I see a strong shift toward precision-based conservative care. More people are looking for natural, non-invasive ways to handle conditions like neuropathy, disc issues and spinal degeneration that are specific to them. There’s less interest in one-size-fits-all treatments and more focus on personalized plans for regenerative health. These often include lifestyle changes, nervous system support and metabolic guidance that come together in one customized plan. People are becoming more proactive in their wellness, not reactive. They’re more intentional about staying healthy, mobile and strong as they age and want plans tailored specifically to them.

Strong nerves and a healthy spine make every part of your golf game better, from your backswing to your follow-through. New treatment options like high-powered laser therapy and personalized conservative care plans are helping golfers and other active people stay pain-free and play their best.