Medicare in South Carolina 2026
Learn how Medicare works in South Carolina, including Medicare Supplement options, Medicare Advantage plans, prescription drug coverage, and what to know before enrolling or changing plans.
State
South Carolina
Medicaid Program
Healthy Connections Medicaid
Best Used For
Retirees, coastal residents, beneficiaries relocating to South Carolina, and those comparing Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement options.
Quick Facts
| State | South Carolina |
| Plan Year | 2026 |
| Medicaid Program | Healthy Connections Medicaid |
| Birthday Rule | No |
| Medigap | South Carolina follows the standard federal Medigap rules and does not have a Medigap Birthday Rule. Outside of your initial enrollment period or a guaranteed issue event, changing Medicare Supplement plans may require medical underwriting. |
| Part D | Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout South Carolina for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, making an annual review during the Annual Enrollment Period important. |
| SHIP Program | South Carolina SHIP |
| Last Reviewed | 2026-06-16 |
Why South Carolina Is Different
South Carolina Medicare beneficiaries can choose between Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement plan or a Medicare Advantage plan. Medicare Advantage plans are available throughout the state, but provider networks, plan availability, and benefits vary by county. Whether you live along the coast, in the Midlands, or in the Upstate, reviewing your Medicare coverage each year can help ensure your plan continues to meet your healthcare needs.
Most Common Mistake
Choosing a Medicare Advantage plan without confirming their doctors, hospitals, and specialists participate in the plan's provider network.
Medigap Rules
South Carolina follows the standard federal Medigap rules and does not have a Medigap Birthday Rule. Outside of your initial enrollment period or a guaranteed issue event, changing Medicare Supplement plans may require medical underwriting.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are widely available throughout South Carolina, with the greatest selection generally found in the Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, and Hilton Head areas. Plan availability, provider networks, premiums, and supplemental benefits vary by county, making annual plan comparisons important.
Part D Prescription Coverage
Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are available throughout South Carolina for beneficiaries with Original Medicare. Plan premiums, covered medications, pharmacy networks, and out-of-pocket costs change each year, making an annual review during the Annual Enrollment Period important.
Provider Network Notes
Provider networks vary throughout South Carolina. Coastal and metropolitan areas generally offer more participating physicians and hospitals than rural communities. Always verify that your preferred providers participate before enrolling.
MUSC Health; Prisma Health; Roper St. Francis Healthcare; Bon Secours St. Francis; Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System
Moving To or From South Carolina
Moving within South Carolina or relocating from another state may change your Medicare Advantage and Part D plan options. Review your coverage whenever you move to ensure your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions remain covered.
Snowbird Considerations
South Carolina is a popular destination for retirees and seasonal residents. If you spend part of the year in another state, Original Medicare paired with a Medicare Supplement generally offers greater nationwide flexibility than most Medicare Advantage plans.
Long-Term Care
Medicare generally does not cover long-term custodial care. Eligible South Carolina residents may qualify for long-term care services through Healthy Connections Medicaid waiver programs.
Retirement Tax Notes
South Carolina does not tax Social Security benefits and offers generous deductions on many types of retirement income, making it a popular retirement destination.
State Assistance Program
South Carolina SHIP
Visit SHIP WebsiteSources & Review Date
CMS.gov; Medicare.gov; South Carolina SHIP; South Carolina Department on Aging; Healthy Connections Medicaid
Plan year: 2026
Last content review: 2026-06-16
Last data review: 2026-06-16