Bill > S0424

This bill creates a new tax deduction for physicians in South Carolina who provide charity care to underserved or low-income individuals. Specifically, physicians can deduct the amount they would have normally charged for medical services provided on a volunteer or pro bono basis through a qualifying arrangement with a charitable nonprofit healthcare organization. The deduction is subject to several important limitations: it cannot exceed the Medicare Economic Index for the services provided, it is capped at 10% of the physician's gross income from medical services or $10,000 for physicians without such income, and the services must be provided under a pre-arranged agreement before the services are rendered. Importantly, the bill defines "physicians" as doctors of medicine or osteopathic medicine licensed in South Carolina, and explicitly excludes interns and residents in training. The tax deduction can only be claimed for services where the physician receives no reimbursement, even at a partial or discounted rate. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval and will first apply to income tax years beginning after 2024, providing an incentive for physicians to offer free medical services to those who might otherwise lack access to healthcare.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0424&session=126&summary=B