Each state across the US has different laws pertaining to health insurance and South Carolina health insurance laws are no exception. It is important for residents to understand what laws pertain to health insurance so that they can find the best health insurance for their personal situation. The following information is an overview of some of the ways the laws of South Carolina may affect an individual’s health coverage.

South Carolina, like some other states, has laws that allow private health insurance companies to deny coverage based on individual health status. Certain conditions and diseases, especially those that require regular health care management such as diabetes, can render an individual ineligible for coverage. The exception applies to employer sponsored health insurance plans, which cannot deny coverage of individuals based on previous or current health status. This can cause a significant problem for someone who loses their employer sponsored health care and needs to acquire individual coverage.

In South Carolina health insurance is monitored by the South Carolina Insurance Department, which regulates companies who provide coverage and agents who sell all types of insurance, including health insurance. If you are having problems with your plan or believe you are being unfairly treated, you can reach the South Carolina Insurance Department at 1-800-768-3467. They will be able to provide you with additional information and resources to help you resolve your complaint.

For residents of South Carolina who might have difficulty affording health insurance and have no options available to them may qualify for Medicaid. South Carolina Medicaid can be reached at 1-888-549-0820. Income verification and other factors affect eligibility for participation in and qualification for Medicaid. Similarly, in South Carolina health insurance is also available to children whose parents might not meet Medicaid eligibility requirements, but cannot get affordable insurance coverage elsewhere. Partners for Healthy Children is a state program and more information can be found at the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services or by calling 1-888-543-0820.

If none of the aforementioned programs fit your needs, you can purchase health insurance in the open market. Private companies offer health insurance through agents that are licensed by the South Carolina Insurance Department. If you need help comparing policies and premium costs, the Insurance Department may be able to help you.

Sadly, South Carolina ranks in the bottom ten states in terms of health care. Recent statistics indicate that roughly 20% of the state’s population are uninsured and that approximately half of the uninsured population report expense as the number one reason they do not have coverage. While it is true that there are many circumstances that make insurance both unaffordable and unattainable for many people, there are options. It takes a great deal of energy to research all options, both government assisted and private, but some form of health insurance should be available. Do not rule out either option and make sure you explore all your possibilities. There may be options available to you that you haven’t yet thought of or that you didn’t know about. Contact agents and state officials to point you in the right direction.