Growing Coalition Advocates for Medicaid Expansion in South Carolina

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A Growing Call for Medicaid Expansion

In Columbia, South Carolina, a new coalition of nonprofits and organizations is raising its voice, urging lawmakers to consider a change that could help many residents in need. For years now, South Carolina has opted not to expand its Medicaid program, which has been an option since the Affordable Care Act was enacted over a decade ago. This decision has left a significant number of citizens without access to affordable healthcare, and the time for change may finally be on the horizon.

The Coalition Pushes for Change

The newly formed coalition comprises dozens of organizations that see the urgent need for Medicaid expansion in the state. Their aim is clear: they want more South Carolinians to have access to healthcare coverage. At a recent news conference in Columbia, coalition leaders highlighted that Medicaid expansion isn’t just a political issue but a crucial matter of health and well-being for many residents.

Despite their enthusiasm, they are encountering substantial opposition from some state lawmakers. Historically, Medicaid expansion in South Carolina has been a touchy subject—it’s often referred to as a “third rail.” Supporters, however, are pointing to success stories from neighboring states as inspiration. They highlighted North Carolina, which, despite having a Republican-dominated legislature, managed to achieve Medicaid expansion.

Lessons from North Carolina

At the forefront of this conversation is North Carolina Republican state representative Donny Lambeth, who stated, “It wasn’t easy. It took us 10 years to get there.” Since expanding Medicaid eligibility last December, more than half a million people in North Carolina have signed up for coverage. This success story demonstrates that effective healthcare expansion can happen even in less-than-ideal political climates.

A report from Cover SC indicates that around 340,000 South Carolinians stand to benefit from Medicaid expansion. Many of these individuals work regular jobs but earn too little to afford private health insurance while not qualifying for Medicaid. As coalition co-chair Teresa Arnold put it, “Most are workers who don’t qualify for Medicaid but make too little to afford private insurance.”

Addressing the Costs

A salient point raised in these discussions lies in the financial implications of Medicaid expansion. The federal government covers a generous 90% of the costs when states extend eligibility, leaving states responsible for just 10%. In South Carolina, this would mean an estimated $270 million burden in the first year, potentially growing to over $380 million by year ten.

North Carolina crafted a deal wherein hospitals absorb the 10% state cost through an annual tax, allowing the state to avoid spending a dime. North Carolina Republican state senator Kevin Corbin noted, “We’ve constructed this in a way that’s not costing the state of North Carolina a single penny.” This innovative approach may serve as a model for South Carolina should lawmakers decide to move forward with expansion.

Political Stalemate

Despite the positive narratives that surround Medicaid expansion, there is notable resistance at the state level. South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has remained steadfastly against the idea. Earlier this year, he vetoed a bill to examine the state’s healthcare market, arguing that it’s unwise to take taxpayer dollars to assist “able-bodied, childless adults.”

This sentiment does not resonate well with everyone, especially those who find themselves in need. South Carolinian Cliff Arnold, who has faced significant health challenges in recent years, shared his story. Arnold, who once worked until kidney failure forced him to rely on a disability check, struggles to afford his medical expenses. “Having healthcare would really make a huge difference in how much we actually would be able to — it would actually put food in our refrigerator,” he explained.

Looking Ahead

The debate over Medicaid expansion in South Carolina continues to be polarized, but the steady push from community leaders and advocates reveals a growing desire for change. It’s a journey that may mirror North Carolina’s ten-year path, but many South Carolinians are hopeful that their voices can spark the conversation that leads to greater healthcare access for all.

As advocates ramp up their efforts in Columbia, the future of Medicaid expansion hangs in the balance, waiting for lawmakers to take a closer look at this pressing issue.