COLUMBIA, S.C. — Shoppers on the federal health insurance marketplace in six South Carolina counties will see a new name on the list for 2027, as Oscar Health moves into the state for the first time.
The New York-based insurer, which focuses on people who buy their own coverage, said Tuesday that South Carolina is part of a push that takes it to 713 counties in 21 states next year, a 24% jump in its county count. Department of Insurance, the newcomer will write coverage in York, Horry, Charleston, Florence, Marion and Colleton counties.
Oscar will also offer RetireEase in South Carolina, a plan aimed at people bridging the gap between early retirement and Medicare. Members pay fixed prices for checkups, lab tests, rehab, cardiology and orthopedic care, and generic prescriptions cost nothing. South Carolina is one of five states getting it, along with Arizona, Florida, Ohio and Texas. The company is also bringing its HelloMeno menopause plan to the state.
The entry reshuffles choices in a few places. Colleton County gains Oscar the same year UnitedHealthcare of South Carolina pulls out of it, one of eight counties that carrier is leaving. The others are Union, Marlboro, Lee, Laurens, Lancaster, Chester and Cherokee. Select Health of South Carolina is adding seven counties, including Florence and York. Absolute Total Care and BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina continue to write plans in all 46 counties.
Shoppers should brace for higher prices. A KFF analysis in August put the median premium increase nationwide at 15% for 2027, the second straight year of double-digit hikes, as the enhanced federal premium tax credits have expired. Open enrollment begins Nov. 1.
Filed under: Irmo SC Health News
