Healthy Connections Medicaid, SCDHHS
Apply online, in person, or by phone. SC Thrive can help with the application.
Official page: scdhhs.gov/members/getting-started
Free and Low Cost Health and Mental Health Care in South Carolina
How to get health care and mental health help in South Carolina: Healthy Connections Medicaid, community health centers, 24 hour mobile crisis, 988, and clinics at shelters.
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Hi friend. Your health matters, and you do not have to wait until it is an emergency. Here is how to find care, cover the cost, and get support when your mind feels too heavy.
Quick answers
How do I apply for Medicaid?
Apply online, in person at your local county office, at most hospitals, or at federally qualified rural health centers. You can also call Healthy Connections at 888 549 0820. SC Thrive can help you fill out the application. If you are pregnant, you may be able to get care while your application is processed.
Official page: scdhhs.gov/members/getting-started
Where can I see a doctor if I have no insurance?
Community health centers give primary care to people in South Carolina communities. Use the Find a Health Center link on the SC Primary Health Care Association site, or the federal Find a Health Center search from HRSA. Dial 211 for other clinics near you.
Official page: scphca.org
What if I'm in a mental health crisis?
Call or text 988 any time. South Carolina also has mobile crisis teams, available around the clock for anyone in the state. Call 833 364 2274. You can also text HOPE4SC to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line. For Spanish, text AYUDA to 741741.
Official page: bhdd.sc.gov/office-mental-health/resources/crisis-resources
How do I find a mental health center or substance use treatment?
The SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities has a Find a Provider page for mental health centers, county substance use treatment providers and opioid treatment programs. It also has a free Hope Connects You online screener.
Official page: bhdd.sc.gov/about/find-provider
Is there a clinic inside a shelter?
Yes, in Columbia. Cooperative Health runs a clinic inside Transitions at 2025 Main Street. Hours are Monday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Tuesday 8:30 am to 12:30 pm, Wednesday 9 am to 12 pm, Thursday 1 pm to 4:30 pm, and Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. One80 Place in Charleston also has an on site clinic.
Official page: transitionssc.org/get-help
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Bunkly tip: crisis texts to 741741 are free and do not show up on your phone bill. That can help if you need privacy.
Who to call in South Carolina
Here are official places to start. Other places may also help. Each place decides who it can serve, and hours change, so call ahead when you can.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Free support by call, text or chat, any time. Spanish is available.
Official page: 988lifeline.org/get-help
SC Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
Mobile crisis teams available around the clock for anyone in South Carolina.
Official page: bhdd.sc.gov/office-mental-health/resources/crisis-resources
BHDD Find a Provider
Search for mental health centers, county substance use treatment and opioid treatment programs.
Official page: bhdd.sc.gov/about/find-provider
SC Primary Health Care Association
Find a community health center near you for primary care and more.
Official page: scphca.org
HRSA Find a Health Center
Federal search tool for health centers by address.
Official page: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
Cooperative Health at Transitions, Columbia
On site medical clinic at 2025 Main Street. Call Transitions to ask who can be seen.
Official page: transitionssc.org/get-help
More help in South Carolina
Housing help in South Carolina (rent, eviction, utilities)Find Help in South Carolina: Where to Start with 211, SNAP, Medicaid and IDEmergency Shelter Tonight in South Carolina: Columbia, Charleston, Greenville and How to Get HelpNo cost Food Help in South Carolina: SNAP, WIC and Food BanksNo cost Clothing, Showers and Hygiene Help in South CarolinaFree Job Help and Job Training in South Carolina: SC Works, Job Corps and MoreDomestic Violence Help, Safety and Housing in South CarolinaHelp for Veterans in South Carolina: Housing, Crisis Support and BenefitsHelp for Youth and Young Adults in South Carolina: Safe Places, Support and TrainingGetting ID and Documents Back in South Carolina: State ID and Birth CertificateFree and Low Cost Phone and Internet Help in South CarolinaFree Legal and Tenant Help in South Carolina: Evictions, Benefits and CourtHow to Make Blessing Bags in South Carolina: Safe Food, Water and Heat Tips
Sources last checked Oct 28, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or housing. Each person chooses which options to use.