The bill H. 5002 aims to establish a framework for the certification of community health workers in South Carolina by adding Chapter 49 to Title 43 of the South Carolina Code of Laws. It outlines the requirements for certification, including eligibility criteria such as residency, age, and completion of a competency-based training program. The bill mandates that individuals must be certified to represent themselves as community health workers starting January 1, 2027, and requires annual recertification that includes continuing education on core competencies. Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Public Health is tasked with promulgating regulations to implement these provisions, including the approval of training programs and continuing education providers.

Furthermore, the bill introduces Section 44-6-75, which requires the State Department of Health and Human Services to seek federal approval for a Medicaid plan amendment or waiver to include services provided by certified community health workers. This section specifies that certified community health workers can provide various services, such as health promotion education and patient education, and ensures that these services are eligible for Medicaid reimbursement when delivered by certified workers employed by approved healthcare entities. The bill emphasizes the importance of integrating community health workers into the healthcare system to enhance service delivery and access to care.

Statutes affected:
01/22/2026: 44-6-75
Latest Version: 44-6-75