South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has officially appointed Eunice Medina as the new director of the South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (SCDHHS). Medina will take over the role from Robert Kerr, who retired on November 1, 2024.
Medina currently holds the position of chief of staff and deputy director of programs at SCDHHS. Governor McMaster expressed confidence in Medina’s ability to continue the agency’s success, stating, “The South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has been a model of excellence under Robert Kerr, and nobody is better positioned than Eunice Medina to build on that.” He also highlighted her expertise in Medicaid and her strong leadership skills as key reasons for her appointment.
Having joined the SCDHHS executive team in June 2021, Medina brings over two decades of experience in Medicaid policy and operations to her new role. Prior to her time at SCDHHS, she worked with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration as a bureau chief, where she led a team of over 60 individuals managing Florida’s Medicaid-managed care plans.
Medina remarked on her 20-year commitment to Medicaid, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Director Kerr and her anticipation of advancing the agency’s mission. “I look forward to moving the agency forward and thank Governor McMaster for the faith he has shown in me,” she said, adding she is eager to undergo the confirmation process.
At 43 years old, Medina resides in Columbia and is a proud alumna of Florida State University, graduating in 2004. Her appointment will need to be confirmed by the South Carolina Senate.
Former Director Kerr praised Medina, stating, “There is no one more prepared than Eunice Medina to lead that team. Her extraordinary knowledge, dedication to service, and values will serve South Carolina well.”