Free Health Insurance in South Carolina

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If you reside in South Carolina, there’s a high chance that you are eligible for free health insurance. Through the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, individuals and families with low incomes can access affordable, quality health insurance. If you’re uninsured or don’t have the means to pay for health insurance, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will discuss the eligibility criteria, coverage options, and benefits of free health insurance in South Carolina.

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Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for free health insurance in South Carolina are based on your income and household size. Generally, if your income is below 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), you are eligible for free health insurance through Medicaid. However, if your income is above the Medicaid limit, you may still qualify for free or low-cost coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Here are the income limits for eligibility:

Household Size
138% FPL
Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)
1
$17,774
$17,774 – $51,040
2
$24,040
$24,040 – $68,960
3
$30,305
$30,305 – $86,880
4
$36,570
$36,570 – $104,800
5
$42,835
$42,835 – $122,720
6
$49,100
$49,100 – $140,640

If you’re unsure about your eligibility, you can use the Health Insurance Marketplace to apply for coverage and find out if you qualify for free or low-cost health insurance in South Carolina.

Coverage Options

There are different types of health insurance coverage options in South Carolina, depending on your eligibility and needs. If you qualify for Medicaid, you will get free health insurance coverage that includes:

  • Doctor visits
  • Hospitalization
  • Prescription drugs
  • Preventive care
  • Mental health and substance abuse services
  • Laboratory and X-ray services

On the other hand, if you qualify for subsidized health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you can choose from a variety of plans that differ in coverage levels and costs. The Marketplace offers four categories of plans: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. The higher the metal level, the more comprehensive the coverage, but also the higher the monthly premiums. In addition, you may qualify for cost-sharing reductions that lower your out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.

FAQ

1. How do I apply for free health insurance in South Carolina?

You can apply for free health insurance in South Carolina through Medicaid or the Health Insurance Marketplace. To apply for Medicaid, you can visit the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services website (https://www.scdhhs.gov/) or call 1-888-549-0820. To apply for subsidized health insurance through the Marketplace, you can visit (https://www.healthcare.gov/) or call 1-800-318-2596.

2. Can I still get free health insurance if I’m not a US citizen?

Yes, you can still qualify for free health insurance even if you’re not a US citizen. Medicaid and the Marketplace offer coverage to immigrants who meet the eligibility criteria, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), refugees, asylees, and some non-citizens with a valid immigration status.

3. Is free health insurance only available during open enrollment?

No, you can apply for free health insurance under Medicaid or the Marketplace any time of the year, regardless of open enrollment. However, if you’re applying for subsidized coverage through the Marketplace, you may only be able to enroll during the Open Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period triggered by a qualifying life event such as losing your job, getting married, or having a baby.

4. What if I already have health insurance but can’t afford it?

If you already have health insurance but can’t afford it, you may be eligible for financial assistance to lower your premiums and out-of-pocket costs. You can check if you qualify for a subsidy through the Health Insurance Marketplace by filling out an application and selecting the option to compare plans with financial assistance.

5. Can I keep my current doctor if I enroll in free health insurance?

It depends on the type of health insurance coverage you select. If you enroll in Medicaid, you can choose from a list of participating providers in your area. If you enroll in a Marketplace plan, you may have more choice of providers but may have to pay more if you go out-of-network. You can check if your doctor is in-network by using the provider directories available on the Marketplace websites.

Conclusion

Free health insurance is available to eligible individuals and families in South Carolina through Medicaid and the Health Insurance Marketplace. Don’t let your income or financial situation prevent you from accessing the healthcare you need. Use the resources and information in this article to apply for coverage and protect your health and wellbeing.

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