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Does Medicaid Cover ABA Therapy in South Carolina?

Published April 8, 2026

Yes — South Carolina Healthy Connections Medicaid covers ABA therapy for children and teens under 21 with an autism diagnosis. South Carolina has expanded ABA access through managed care, and the Columbia and Charleston metros have growing provider networks. Here's what families need to know.

Key takeaways

  • Healthy Connections covers ABA for all children under 21 with autism
  • Managed care plans include Absolute Total Care (Centene), Molina, and Select Health of SC
  • South Carolina's commercial insurance mandate covers children through age 16
  • Columbia and Charleston have the largest ABA provider networks in SC
  • Adults may access services through the SC Medicaid waiver program

South Carolina Healthy Connections managed care plans

Healthy Connections is South Carolina's Medicaid program. Most enrollees receive services through managed care organizations:

South Carolina's autism insurance mandate

South Carolina law (SC Code § 38-71-280) requires fully-insured commercial health plans to cover ABA therapy for children with autism through age 16. Coverage includes diagnosis and treatment. Children over 16 on private insurance should still inquire with their insurer about available behavioral health benefits.

How to access ABA through South Carolina Medicaid

  1. Confirm your Healthy Connections plan at scdhhs.gov or call 1-888-549-0820.
  2. Get an autism diagnosis from a licensed psychologist, physician, or psychiatrist.
  3. Contact your managed care plan for in-network ABA providers, or search FindABA.
  4. Complete prior authorization — typically 7–14 days for approval.
  5. Services begin at no cost to you.

South Carolina resources

Find South Carolina ABA providers that accept Medicaid

FindABA lists ABA providers across South Carolina showing accepted plans including Healthy Connections, Absolute Total Care, and Molina.

Search South Carolina providers →