Bill > H3025

This bill amends South Carolina's existing Geriatric Physician Loan Forgiveness Program to expand its scope and financial support for healthcare professionals specializing in geriatric care. The bill increases the maximum loan reimbursement from $35,000 to $50,000 per physician, multiplied by the number of years in their fellowship, and allows for prorated reimbursement for partial fellowship years. The program continues to require participating physicians to practice in South Carolina for at least five consecutive years after completing their fellowship, accept Medicare and Medicaid patients, accept standard reimbursement rates, and not discriminate against patients based on their ability to pay. Currently, the program limits participation to four physicians or qualified health professionals per year, unless sufficient funding is available to support more participants. The bill maintains these core requirements while providing more financial incentive for geriatric healthcare professionals to practice in the state, potentially addressing healthcare workforce needs in geriatric medicine. The amendment will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3025&session=126&summary=B