The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS) gives notice of the following action to more clearly require compliance with South Carolina health practice acts, ensure consumer protection, and improve utilization and quality of services provided to beneficiaries under the State Plan under Title XIX of the Social Security Act Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid).

Effective on or after April 1, 2016, SCDHHS will amend the South Carolina Title XIX State Plan to clearly require providers not employed by governmental entities who render core treatment services to possess a license to practice in psychology, social work, professional counseling, marriage and family therapy, medicine, or pharmacy and to practice within the licensing requirements.

Individuals who are pursuing a license and are practicing during a supervised period of clinical practice in accordance with the applicable Practice Act may continue to render core treatment services.

Copies of this notice are available at each county SCDHHS office and at www.scdhhs.gov for public review. Additional information regarding this action is available upon request at the address cited below.

Any written comments submitted may be reviewed by the public at the SCDHHS, Division of Behavioral Health, Jefferson Square Building, 1801 Main Street, Columbia, South Carolina, Monday through Friday between 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.