If you're like most people, you probably dread opening up your monthly healthcare statement. With deductibles rising and insurance companies covering less and less, it's no wonder that so many people are struggling to pay for healthcare. But there is another way.
Christian Medical Cost Sharing is an increasingly popular alternative to traditional health insurance. Also known as medical or health cost-sharing ministries, these programs are based on Christian sharing and mutual aid principles.
Members of a cost-sharing program agree to share each other's medical costs, similar to how members of a church or other organization might share other expenses. In addition to being more affordable than traditional health insurance, cost-sharing programs can also offer greater flexibility and freedom of choice when choosing a healthcare provider.
Let's look at what Christian medical cost-sharing programs are, how they work, and some of the pros and cons of opting for one.
What is Christian Medical Cost-Sharing?
You've probably heard of health insurance, but you may be less familiar with cost-sharing programs such as healthcare sharing ministries (HCSM). A "healthcare sharing ministry" is a term used to describe a Christian organization that helps its members pay for medical expenses.
The concept of healthcare expense sharing has been around for centuries, but it only started to gain popularity in the United States in the 1990s. There are now multiple healthcare sharing ministries operating in the country, and they have become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional health insurance.
It’s important to note that HCSMs aren’t regulated by state insurance regulators and are not allowed to “promise” that your medical expenses will be shared. Some, however, do have appeals processes in place if you disagree with a decision.
How Do Christian Medical Cost-Sharing Programs Work?
Christian medical cost-sharing programs are designed to help members meet their medical expenses. They work by collecting monthly payments from their members. These payments, known as "shares", are then used to help pay the medical expenses of other members.
Members must often agree to abide by certain guidelines to be eligible for coverage, such as abstaining from tobacco use and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthcare sharing ministries are not required to provide coverage for pre-existing conditions, and they may place limits on the amount of money that can be spent on certain procedures. In a nutshell:
- Members share their medical bills with other members. The healthcare sharing ministry facilitates this sharing.
- Members agree to abide by certain guidelines regarding the use of medical care.
- Lastly, members share voluntary contributions that are used to help pay for the medical expenses of other members.
Cost-sharing programs can be an affordable way to meet your healthcare needs, and Liberty HealthShare is one of the leading providers of these services.
Is Liberty HealthShare an Option for You?
If you're looking for a more affordable and compassionate way to pay for healthcare, a Christian medical cost-sharing plan such as Liberty HealthShare may be the right option for you.
Liberty HealthShare is a Christian-based cost-sharing ministry that can help you save money on your healthcare costs. If you are interested in learning more about how Liberty HealthShare works and whether it might be right for you, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you get started on saving money on your healthcare expenses.
