SC H5158

Establishes the Rural Physician Tuition Grant Program in South Carolina, administered by the Commission on Higher Education, to increase licensed physicians practicing in rural areas of the state

Provides tuition grants (not loans) to medical students enrolled in accredited allopathic or osteopathic medical schools who commit to practicing full-time in rural South Carolina for a minimum of five years after completing their degree, residency, and postgraduate training

Requires grant recipients to be South Carolina legal residents and execute a service obligation agreement; the Commission may prioritize applicants intending to practice in medical specialties commonly needed in rural areas

Funds the program through South Carolina Education Lottery revenues, with grants limited to covering tuition and mandatory academic fees

Imposes penalties for breach of service obligation including repayment of 150% of total grant funds received plus interest, and ineligibility for medical license issuance or renewal until amounts owed are paid in full