Health subcommittee recommends Medicaid funding, IT modernization and support for MUSC cancer center

Representative Hewitt said the state is investing nearly $500,000,000 in health services to build a resilient system for a growing population. He described allocations intended to maintain provider rates, comply with federal requirements and modernize aging systems.

Hewitt cited $155,000,000 allocated to Medicaid to maintain reimbursement rates and cover federally required premium increases for dual‑eligible members. He said $24,000,000 will expand community‑based services for the aging population, individuals with disabilities and people with mental health conditions, and $13,000,000 will sustain services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and substance use disorders.

On technology, Hewitt noted $48,000,000 to modernize IT systems (aimed at reducing cybersecurity risk and integrating systems with the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities) and $34,000,000 to reduce SNAP payment error rates. He also described $185,000,000 in partnership funds with higher education to support MUSC's pursuit of comprehensive cancer center status and neurological care at the University of South Carolina.