South Carolina (Copy)

Written By Jerdon Johnston

Tsunami Health Citizen Guide for South Carolina

Understanding Your Healthcare Options in South Carolina

Navigating healthcare can be complex, but South Carolina offers various programs to help residents access quality care. Whether you're uninsured, underinsured, or need financial assistance with medical costs, this guide introduces you to key options.

Who Needs This Guide?

  • You are uninsured or struggling with health insurance costs.

  • You want to explore healthcare coverage options in South Carolina.

  • You need financial assistance for medical care.

  • You want to maximize the benefits of your current health plan.

Key Healthcare Programs in South Carolina

1. Medicaid & CHIP

  • Who Qualifies? Low-income individuals, families, pregnant women, children, and people with disabilities.

  • What It Covers? Doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, preventive services, and more.

  • How to Apply? Visit South Carolina Healthy Connections or apply through the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov.

2. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Plans

  • Who Qualifies? Anyone who doesn’t receive insurance through an employer, Medicare, or Medicaid.

  • What It Covers? Comprehensive coverage, including preventive care, emergency services, and mental health care.

  • How to Apply? Visit Healthcare.gov to explore options and apply.

3. Medicare

  • Who Qualifies? Individuals 65+ or those with qualifying disabilities.

  • What It Covers?

    • Part A (Hospital stays)

    • Part B (Doctor visits)

    • Part D (Prescription drug coverage)

  • How to Apply? Visit Medicare.gov.

4. Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance

  • Many employers provide group health insurance, often covering part of the premium.

  • If you have a job, ask your employer about available health benefits.

  • COBRA may be available for those who recently lost job-based insurance.

5. Short-Term & Supplemental Health Plans

  • Short-term health plans provide temporary coverage.

  • Supplemental plans (accident or critical illness insurance) help with unexpected medical expenses.

Financial Assistance Programs

  • Premium Tax Credits – Reduce ACA marketplace plan costs.

  • Cost-Sharing Reductions – Lower out-of-pocket costs for eligible individuals.

  • South Carolina State-Specific Assistance Programs – Additional aid may be available through state resources.

Where to Get Help

  • South Carolina Health Insurance Marketplace – Compare and enroll in ACA plans.

  • Medicaid Office – Apply for Medicaid or CHIP based on eligibility.

  • Local Community Health Centers – Access low-cost or free healthcare services.

  • Tsunami Advisors – Get personalized guidance on finding the best healthcare plan.

➡ Need Help? Schedule a free consultation with a Tsunami Advisor today!

Tsunami Health Business Owner Guide for South Carolina

Healthcare Options for Your Business & Employees in South Carolina

Providing health benefits can boost employee retention, productivity, and overall satisfaction. Whether you're a small business owner or managing a larger company, here’s a breakdown of healthcare options available in South Carolina.

Who Needs This Guide?

  • You own a business and want to provide affordable health benefits.

  • You need to understand employer healthcare obligations.

  • You’re looking for cost-saving strategies for offering insurance.

Healthcare Coverage Options for Employers

1. Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP)

  • Who Qualifies? Small businesses with 1-50 employees.

  • What It Covers? Employer-sponsored ACA-compliant plans.

  • How to Apply? Visit Healthcare.gov Small Businesses.

2. Group Health Insurance Plans

  • Many private insurers offer group plans, often providing better rates and coverage than individual plans.

3. Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs)

  • HRAs allow businesses to reimburse employees for medical expenses, including insurance premiums.

  • Qualified Small Employer HRA (QSEHRA) – For businesses with fewer than 50 employees.

  • Individual Coverage HRA (ICHRA) – Lets employers contribute toward individual health plans.

4. Self-Funded or Level-Funded Health Plans

  • Larger businesses may opt for self-funded insurance, taking on financial risk for potential cost savings.

Legal Requirements for Businesses

✔ Employers with 50+ employees must offer health insurance under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) or pay a penalty.
✔ Employers with fewer than 50 employees are not required to offer insurance but may qualify for tax credits.

Cost-Saving Strategies for Employers

💰 Small Business Health Care Tax Credit – Available for companies with fewer than 25 employees offering health coverage.
💰 Wellness Programs – Reduce premiums and improve employee health.
💰 Telemedicine & Supplemental Benefits – Lower overall healthcare expenses.

Where to Get Help

  • Tsunami Advisors – Get expert recommendations for cost-effective coverage.

  • South Carolina Health Insurance Exchange – Explore employer-sponsored plan options.

  • IRS Small Business Tax Guide – Learn about tax credits and compliance.

➡ Need Guidance? Speak with a Tsunami Advisor to create a healthcare strategy tailored to your business!

 
Jerdon Johnston