A. Biblical Model
B. Have a Vote
C. Guidelines Govern
D. No Ministry or Other Member Liability

A. Biblical Model

Medi-Share is a healthcare sharing ministry program administered by Christian Care Ministry, Inc. (“Christian Care Ministry” or “CCM”). Christian Care Ministry is a Florida not for profit corporation that is recognized as tax exempt under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3).

The purpose of Medi-Share is to bring Christians together to share God’s blessings and to share each other’s burdens. The concept of “sharing” is not new. For centuries, Christians all over the world have shared their lives, resources, and blessings as first outlined in the book of Acts.

Each month, the Members of Medi-Share contribute toward the Eligible Medical Bills of other Medi-Share Members. As the administrator of the Medi-Share program, Christian Care Ministry facilitates this sharing process by publishing medical bills that are eligible for sharing. Those bills are paid with the funds of Members who faithfully share. The following Guidelines explain the program requirements and how CCM facilitates medical bill sharing.

B. Have a Vote

Medi-Share Members have the opportunity to help create, amend and change these program Guidelines. Changes to the Guidelines may be made by the following:

1) By the Members – Once or twice a year, ballots with significant proposed changes to the Guidelines are submitted to the Members for voting. If at least 67% of the Members voting approve a Guideline change, then the change will be implemented.

2) By the Medi-Share Steering Committee – The Medi-Share Steering Committee is a group of Medi-Share Members. They are independent of CCM staff and not controlled by CCM’s Board of Directors. The Steering Committee may modify the Guidelines on the Members’ behalf if the changes do not involve significant new restrictions or relaxations.

3) By the Board of Directors – The CCM Board of Directors aims to strengthen the Medi-Share program and/or protect its Members. They act independent of CCM staff. The Board may modify these Guidelines. Proposed Guideline changes by the Board of Directors must be presented to the Members on an upcoming ballot within 12 months of the Effective Date of the Board action. If the change is ratified by at least 67% of Members voting, then the change will become permanent. If not, the Guideline change will revert to its previous version at the close of balloting.

A list of Guideline changes is available at MyChristianCare.org for at least 24 months from the date of the change.

C. Guidelines Govern

The Guidelines that were in effect on the date of service govern the program, not the Guidelines in effect when a Member joined. The most current version of the Guidelines is available at MyChristianCare.org. The Guidelines are final and will overrule any verbal statement made by anyone regarding the Medi-Share program.

D. No Ministry or Other Member Liability

Medi-Share is not insurance. Medi-Share is a Healthcare Sharing Ministry as outlined in the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act. Each Medi-Share member is solely responsible for the payment of his or her own medical bills at all times. Neither CCM nor other Members guarantee or shall be liable for the payment of a Member’s medical bill. Further, no Member may or shall be compelled to make sharing contributions. If sharing occurs, the shared medical bills are paid by the Member that incurred the bill solely from voluntary contributions of Members, not from funds of CCM itself.

Neither CCM, Medi-Share nor its Members are insurance or an insurance company. The payment of your medical bills through Medi-Share or otherwise is not guaranteed in any way. Medi-Share is not, and should never be construed as, a contract for insurance or a substitute for insurance. There is no transfer of risk for any purpose from a Member to CCM or from a Member to other Members; nor is there a contract of indemnity between CCM and any Member or between the Members themselves.

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A. Christian Testimony
B. Healthy Lifestyle
C. Application Review
D. Health Partners
E. Spouse and Children
F. Adult Children of Members
G. Children of Members Who Apply for Individual Membership
H. 65 Years of Age and Older
I. U.S. Citizens Who Have Lived Abroad
J. Non-U.S. Citizens
K. Life Milestones

A. Christian Testimony

Medi-Share Membership is built on a foundation of like ideals agreed upon by the Members. The peace of mind of knowing the people sharing your contributions are not using your money for things that conflict with your faith is a blessing many Members enjoy.

All adult Members age 18 and older must attest to a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. A church leader may be interviewed to verify their testimony.

Adult Members profess the following Statement of Faith to qualify for Medi-Share membership:
• I believe that there is one God eternally existing in three Persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
• I believe that the Bible is God's written revelation to man and that it is verbally inspired, authoritative and without error.
• I believe in the deity of Jesus Christ—His virgin birth, sinless life, miracles, death on the cross to provide for our redemption, bodily resurrection and ascension into heaven, present ministry of intercession for us, and His return to earth in power and glory.
• I believe in the personality and deity of the Holy Spirit, that He performs the miracle of new birth in an unbeliever and indwells believers, enabling them to live a godly life.
• I believe that man was created in the image of God, but because of sin was alienated from God. Alienation can be removed by accepting God's gift of salvation by grace through faith (Eph 2:8-10) which was made possible by Christ's death and resurrection.  This faith will be evidenced by the works that we do (James 2:17). 

All Members agree to the following:
• Live by biblical standards
• Believers are to bear one another's burdens
• Attend and actively support a fellowship of believers regularly

B. Healthy Lifestyle

Members highly value the biblical principle that our physical bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be kept pure. Members should strive to maintain healthy lifestyles, as this glorifies God and keeps medical costs down. Examples of unhealthy lifestyles include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Use of tobacco
• Use of illegal drugs

Applicants need to have abstained from the use of tobacco or illegal drugs for at least the 12 months prior to application in order to be eligible for membership. Applicants attest that they have not abused legal drugs, such as prescriptions or over-the-counter medication, or alcohol for at least the 12 months prior to application in order to be eligible for membership.

Members must only engage in sexual relations within a traditional Christian marriage.

An adult child (18-22) needs to meet the same faith and lifestyle requirements expected of all adult Members in order to stay on his or her parent(s) household membership. The child and parent must both certify that the child understands and lives by these requirements. If certification is received within 60 days of a child’s 18th birthday, the child's membership may continue. If not, only medical bills incurred before the 18th birthday will be considered for sharing.

C. Application Review

Applicants provide medical and lifestyle information during the application process. This helps determine qualification for Medi-Share membership. It may be necessary for applicants to have providers submit medical records.
Applicants may not qualify for membership if they:*
• have a history of serious medical condition(s)
• are at significant risk for certain diseases
*Some applicants may still join with certain diseases excluded from sharing.

If a Member or Applicant becomes aware of any medical history not reported during the application process, that information should be immediately submitted in writing to CCM. If information that would disqualify them from membership is omitted, medical bills may not be shared and/or membership may be cancelled.

D. Health Partners

Christian Care Ministry cares deeply about the health and well-being of all Members. For this reason, some Applicants may be required to become a Health Partner. Health Partners are Members whose risk of major disease falls within a specified range. CCM believes certain conditions are likely to be reversed through a healthy lifestyle. By reversing and/or preventing certain diseases, people are able to live healthier and fuller lives, ultimately being able to do more work for the Kingdom of God. CCM’s goal is to help all Members reach their individual health goals so they can live more enriched lives.

A Health Partner is a Medi-Share Member who participates in the Restore program. Restore is designed to reduce the risk for major disease. Each Health Partner works with a Health Coach to develop and follow a personal plan for achieving required health goals. It is necessary for Members to stick to their plan and achieve their required goals to continue membership. Health Partners pay a monthly Restore Program fee in addition to their Monthly Share. Many Members experience life-changing results such as lower cholesterol, healthy weight loss, and the reversal of diabetes.

E. Spouse and Children

The following family Members may be included or added to the Member Household if they meet the qualifications for membership:
• Spouse
• Biological children
• Adopted children*
• Children in full legal custody or guardianship*
• Children in legal custody whose adoption is pending*
*Please call for complete instructions.

Review the following when adding a new spouse:

• If the spouse’s application is submitted and approved prior to the marriage date, the membership will begin on the marriage date. A pregnancy that occurs on or after the marriage date will be considered for sharing.*

• If the application is submitted within 30 days after the marriage date and is approved, the sharing start date is the first day of the month following approval. A pregnancy that occurs on the marriage date or thereafter will be considered for sharing if the application is approved.*

• If the application is not submitted before or within 30 days of the marriage date, there will be no sharing for a pregnancy before the Effective Date.*

* Please see Section VII. D. to review how to add a newborn.

F. Adult Children of Members

Within 60 days of the adult child’s 18th birthday, he or she must complete the following to stay on his or her parents’ Member Household after the age of 18:
• Sign Medi-Share Commitment form
• Attest to a verifiable Christian Testimony (see Section II. A.)
• Make an individual commitment to a healthy lifestyle (see Section II. B.)

Unmarried adult children of Members may be part of the parent(s) Member Household until they reach age 23 if they meet one of the following qualifications:
• The child continuously resides at the home of his or her parent(s). The child may be away from home temporarily for a single period up to 150 days per 12 months.
• The child is attending an institution of higher education as a full-time student. The child may be away from home for a single period up to 150 days between school terms.
• The child is engaged in full-time Christian missions work.
• The child is enrolled and participating in Christian education programs.
• The child is enrolled and participating in a certified technical school.

These qualifications are in addition to a verifiable Christian Testimony and individual commitment to healthy lifestyle outlined in the Guidelines.

It is the responsibility of the Member to notify CCM when an adult child no longer qualifies as part of the Member Household. Continuing to submit the Monthly Share at the level that included the adult child does not extend the membership. An adult child may be added to a Member Household if they meet qualifications for membership.

G. Children of Members Who Apply for Individual Membership

Upon reaching 18 years of age, a child participating under his or her parent(s) Member Household may apply for his or her own membership. The application and Medi-Share membership fees will be waived. The restrictions on sharing during the first month of membership detailed in Section VI. B. will be waived. Any medical conditions previously eligible for sharing will continue to be eligible under the Individual membership.

H. 65 Years of Age and Older

Applicants who are 65 or older are ineligible for Medi-Share. However, applicants who are 65 or older are eligible for Senior Assist. Senior Assist is a healthcare sharing program that has been specifically designed for seniors with Medicare Parts A and B.
Members who turn 65 and have Medicare Parts A and B will automatically transition to Senior Assist.  Or if they do not have Medicare Parts A and B, the Member can remain on Medi-Share.

I. U.S. Citizens Who Have Lived Abroad

U.S. citizen Applicants who have lived abroad for more than 12 consecutive months during the past three years may be required to have a physical examination and other medical tests prior to admission to membership.

J. Non-U.S. Citizens

Permanent U.S. residents with a Permanent Resident Card or current visa and a Social Security number who live full-time in the U.S. can qualify for Medi-Share membership. A physical examination and other medical tests may be necessary to determine whether or not the Applicant qualifies. If a Member ceases to be a legal resident of the U.S., he or she no longer qualifies for Medi-Share. Eligible Medical Bills incurred while not a legal resident of the U.S. are not eligible for sharing. Continuing to submit Monthly Shares once disqualified does not extend membership.

K. Life Milestones

Medi-Share changes and grows with Members as they go through life. The following are instances where life changes may call for a Member to take action to maintain membership:

1. Adult Child*
• 18 to 22 years of age –Member must qualify to participate in membership.
• 18th birthday – The child Member must complete a Medi-Share Commitment form to remain under his or her parent(s) Member household or apply for individual membership.
• 23rd birthday – A child Member turning 23 can apply for individual membership before the birthday, as he or she no longer qualifies to participate as part of the parent(s)’ Member Household.
• Getting Married – The child Member may no longer participate under the Member Household of the parent(s) and must apply for his or her own membership.

*Continuing to submit Monthly Shares does not extend the child’s membership.

2. Marriage/Divorce
• Marriage – A spouse must apply and qualify to be added as a Member. The application can be submitted before or after the marriage. Membership can start on or after the marriage date.
• Member on a $500 Annual Household Portion (AHP) marries and would like to add a spouse and/or child – If the spouse and/or child becomes a Member, the AHP must be changed. Both spouses can have separate $500 AHPs if they individually qualify for their own memberships. Maternity and adoption are not eligible for sharing at the $500 AHP level.
• Divorce – Members who are going through a divorce or whose marriage has ended in divorce should contact Member Services for information regarding their options and continuing their membership.

3. Adding Newborns and Children

• If the mother is a Member at the time of delivery and an “Add a Newborn” form is submitted within 30 days of delivery, the newborn is then a Member from birth (see Section VII. D.).

• If the mother is not a Member at the time of delivery, an “Add a Family Member” form can be submitted for the newborn and once approved the newborn will be added onto membership the first of the month following approval (see Section VII. D.).

Application to add a child can be made by submitting an “Add a Family Member” form for the following:*
• legally adopted children
• children in legal custody whose adoption is pending
• children for whom full legal custody and/or guardianship has been awarded to the Member
*See Section II. E.

4. Turning 65
• Members will automatically transition to Senior Assist when they turn 65. Senior Assist is a program for individuals 65 or older with Medicare Parts A and B.
• Members may remain on Medi-Share if they choose to, or if they do not have Medicare Parts A and B.

5. Age Affects Share Amount
• Because the $500 AHP program is only available for single memberships ages 18-29, when a 29-year-old Member on the $500 AHP turns 30, the AHP will automatically change to the $1,250 single AHP with no fee or waiting period.
• A Member Household will be notified when its share amount changes. The change will occur based on the age of the oldest person in the Member Household.

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A. Medi-Share Is Not a Substitute for Insurance Required By Law
B. Individual Credit Union Accounts
C. Review Monthly Share Notice
D. Praying and Sharing
E. Pre-Notification
F. Sharing Assistance
G. Cancellations and Withdrawals
H. Reapplication After Cancellation

A. Medi-Share Is Not a Substitute for Insurance Required By Law

Medi-Share is not insurance. However, Medi-Share can be used as a substitute for or an exemption from mandated insurance coverage in the following circumstances:
• to satisfy the federal mandate that becomes effective January 1, 2014 requiring "applicable individuals" to maintain "minimum essential [insurance] coverage";
• to satisfy the Massachusetts requirement to maintain "minimum creditable [insurance] coverage."

These are the only exceptions. Otherwise, Members must not certify that Medi-Share is insurance to avoid purchasing insurance required by law, rule or regulation (e.g. worker’s compensation insurance or sports activity insurance).

B. Individual Credit Union Accounts

To make Medi-Share more convenient for Members, Members share with each other using individual bank accounts at a credit union. Members complete the following:
1) Open an account with America’s Christian Credit Union (ACCU)
2) Sign a Limited Power of Attorney agreement
This account is for sharing medical bills between Members. The agreement gives CCM the ability to facilitate Member-to-Member sharing.

C. Review Monthly Share Notice

Members receive monthly notices regarding their Monthly Share amount. Members, who want to participate in sharing, deposit their Monthly Share amount into their individual ACCU accounts for facilitation of bill sharing and continued membership. Members contribute an additional amount to the Extra Blessing fund when Monthly Shares are deposited after the seventh of the month. This contribution is $5.00 or 5% of the late amount, whichever is greater (see Section VI. L.).

D. Praying and Sharing

An added benefit of being involved in Medi-Share is the community within the Membership. Your Monthly Share Portion is assigned to another Member or other Members for payment of their Eligible Medical Bills. Contact information of those receiving your Monthly Share Portion is published on the secure website, MyChristianCare.org. Members register with a username and password to view this secure information. This information is available so Members may pray for each other and send cards, letters or emails of encouragement. Many have expressed how blessed they are by their fellow Members who reach out to them.

To review the latest Member prayer needs, visit the PrayerStream at MyChristianCare.org. To request prayer support, Members can call Member Services at (800) 264-2562 or e-mail prayer@mychristiancare.org.

E. Pre-Notification

Members receive easy-to-use Medi-Share ID cards. These are presented by the Member to the provider at the time of service. The Member should direct the provider to pre-notify CCM by calling (321) 308-7777. In the event of emergency/urgent care, the Member needs to provide notification within 72 hours of when care was given.

Some services require a pre-eligibility review (see Section VI. G.). Providers will be informed if that is the case during the pre-notification call. If a pre-eligibility review is not obtained when required, a medical bill that could be eligible for sharing may be determined to be ineligible for sharing. Pre-notification and pre-eligibility review of medical bills does not guarantee eligibility or sharing.

F. Sharing Assistance

Christian Care Ministry understands some medical situations may cause financial hardship for Medi-Share Members. Monthly Shares may be waived for up to 3 months if a Member’s illness or injury causes loss of income. This is subject to the approval of and monthly review by CCM. The Member is to submit supporting evidence regarding the situation. The illness or injury cannot be related to a medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment listed in Section VI. J.

G. Cancellations and Withdrawals

Medi-Share membership will be cancelled if a Member does not deposit the Monthly Share for more than two months. The Cancellation Date will be the last day of the month for which the last Monthly Share was deposited. Only medical bills incurred on or before the Cancellation Date will be considered for sharing.

To prevent cancellation, Members can deposit each Monthly Share plus the late fee for Extra Blessings (see Section VI. L.). This deposit needs to be made within two months from the earliest due date. Medical bills incurred during that time may still be submitted for sharing consideration.

If a Member wishes to withdraw his or her individual membership, a family member or the entire family, they should notify CCM by mail, e-mail, fax or phone. This action must be taken at least 15 days before the desired Cancellation Date. All changes in membership are effective on the first day of the applicable month.

Mail:
P.O. Box 120099
West Melbourne, FL 32912-0099

E-mail: memberservices@medi-share.org

Fax: (321) 308-7779

Phone: (800) 264-2562

H. Reapplication After Cancellation

Members who were cancelled for not sharing faithfully are welcome to reapply. If approved for membership, medical bills will be shared after the first three months of the new membership term. All medical conditions arising before the date of reapplication will be subject to the Guidelines, including those outlined in Section VI. F. This includes the medical conditions that arose during the prior Medi-Share membership.

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A. Annual Household Portion (AHP)
B. Changing Annual Household Portion
C. Maximum Sharing Limits
D. Health Incentive
E. Provider Fee

A. Annual Household Portion (AHP)

Members are able to customize their family’s healthcare by choosing which Annual Household Portion (AHP) they prefer. The AHP is the dollar amount that a Member Household must pay toward Eligible Medical Bills before any bill may be shared among the Members. The AHP amount resets every 12 months on the Effective Date. Even if the AHP is not yet met, providers should still submit all medical bills to CCM for processing. This ensures all Eligible Medical Bills will be applied toward the AHP and allows for the possibility of discounts. Eligible Medical Bills are published to the Members for sharing after the Member’s AHP is met.

B. Changing Annual Household Portion

Members may change their AHP amount. See chart below for conditions:

*The $500 AHP program is exclusive to Members age 18-29 applying for a single program. Members with a $500 AHP are not eligible for sharing of maternity or adoption expenses. There is an administrative fee of $75 to change the AHP.

Bills will be processed according to the member’s AHP at the time the bills were incurred. Once the AHP change is made, the Effective Date changes to the date the new AHP begins. Any change in the AHP causes the amount of Eligible Medical Bills paid toward the AHP to reset to $0.

For example: On March 30 you are an active Member with a $2,500 AHP; you have incurred $1,000 toward your AHP and are approved for a lower AHP. On July 1 your lower AHP amount becomes effective. The amount of Eligible Medical Bills paid toward your new AHP now resets to $0 on July 1. However, the bills incurred prior to July 1 will continue to be applied towards the previous $2,500 AHP.

C. Maximum Sharing Limits

Each Member enjoys sharing of his or her Eligible Medical Bills up to $1,000,000 per year and up to $5,000,000 per lifetime.

D. Health Incentive

Because of Medi-Share Members’ commitment to healthy living, Members can be rewarded for their healthy choices. A Member Household may qualify for a health incentive in the form of a decreased Monthly Share. Members are eligible for the health incentive after the first month of membership. The criteria, forms and instructions to apply for the Health Incentive can be found at MyChristianCare.org.

E. Provider Fee

The provider fee is $35 for each office or hospital visit, or $135 for every emergency room visit. It is the Member’s responsibility to pay the applicable provider fee at time of service or upon being billed by the provider at a later time. The provider fee does not count toward the AHP and continues to be applied even after the AHP is met.

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A. Using the Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)
B. Using Non-PPO Providers

A. Using the Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

To get the most from sharing, Members should use PPO providers whenever possible because these providers have agreed to discount their fees to Members. Consequently, using this network generally offers significant savings, both for individual Members in the form of lower out-of-pocket expenses and also for the membership in the form of lower Monthly Share amounts.

It’s best to identify PPO providers and facilities in your region before you seek care. To do so simply go to MyChristianCare.org/pro, call the provider number on your Medi-Share ID card or call Member Services at (800) 264-2562.

Your Medi-Share ID card must be presented to the provider before services are rendered or the discount may not be honored.
As a courtesy, many PPO providers also honor their discount agreement for services ineligible for sharing (such as routine care) if Members make payment promptly after receiving the Explanation of Sharing (EOS).

B. Using Non-PPO Providers

• Physicians and Other Professionals

If a Member uses a non-PPO professional service provider, bills eligible for sharing are limited to the usual and customary (U&C) charge for that service based on independent norms. Charges above that amount are the Member’s responsibility.

• Hospitals and Other Facilities

If a Member uses a non-PPO hospital or other facility, the Member has an additional responsibility of either 20% of total charges or $500 per eligible bill, whichever is lower. This additional responsibility is over and above any other Medi-Share program element, such as the AHP.

• Non-PPO Waivers
The additional responsibility associated with out-of-network costs may be waived in cases where there was a life-threatening emergency.

Some additional responsibility may be waived when the travel distance to the nearest PPO qualified provider is more than 25 miles.

If pre-notification as described in Section III E. is not met, the additional responsibility may not be waived. Waivers can be requested by contacting Member Services. Waivers will be given after a balance bill has been issued by the provider. The request for the waiver must be received within 90 days from the date the Explanation of Sharing (EOS) was issued or within 12 months from date of service, whichever is greater.

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A. American Medical Association (AMA) Approved Treatment
B. Sharing During the First Month of Membership
C. Determining Eligibility for Sharing
D. Lifestyle
E. Sharing for Members 65 and Older
F. Pre-Existing Medical Conditions or Related Conditions
G. Preliminary Eligibility Review for Non-Emergency Surgical/Medical Procedures
H. Medical Procedures Requiring Pre-Eligibility Determination
I. Medical Conditions and Services Subject to Limited Sharing
J. Medical Conditions and Services Not Eligible for Sharing
K. Conflicts of Interest
L. Extra Blessings

A. American Medical Association (AMA) Approved Treatment

The cost of American Medical Association (AMA) approved testing, treatments, and up to six months of FDA approved prescription drugs per eligible condition will be considered for sharing. They must be ordered by one of the following:
• Medical Doctor (M.D.)
• Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.)
• Nurse Practitioner (N.P.)
• Physician’s Assistant (P.A.)
• Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) 
• Dentist (D.D.S. or D.M.D.)
• Midwife
• Optometrist

These AMA approved tests and treatments are to be performed at one of the following:
• Hospital
• Surgery center
• Clinic
• Doctor's office
• Diagnostic facility
For other locations to be considered, a pre-eligibility review is required.

To be considered for sharing, diagnosis and treatment are to be performed in the U.S. except in emergencies or when missionaries are serving abroad.

The provider must submit medical bills on a CMS 1500 or a UB and IB form (healthcare industry standard forms) to be considered for sharing.

Non-AMA approved testing, treatment, or non-FDA approved prescription drugs may be considered for sharing. Non-AMA approved testing, treatment, and non-FDA approved prescription drugs must be ordered by a Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.), Nurse Practitioner (N.P.), Physician’s Assistant (P.A.), or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M) and be performed at a hospital, surgery center, clinic, doctor’s office, or diagnostic facility. The cost for such treatments will be considered for sharing only for Members with physical findings and/or symptoms that are suggestive to the medical providers listed above of disease or injury. CCM may offer consultation with CCM-recommended physicians who are knowledgeable in alternative care.

B. Sharing During the First Month of Membership

Members are eligible to receive up to $50,000 of their Eligible Medical Bills shared during their first month of membership. Members who went from being under a parent(s) Member Household to an individual membership have no cap on the amount of eligible medical bills that can be shared during the first month of individual membership. (see Section II. F.).

C. Determining Eligibility for Sharing

The eligibility of a medical bill for sharing is determined after medical services are rendered. Medical conditions and procedures listed in Section VI. H. are an exception. Medical and lifestyle information help determine eligibility. Medical records may also be needed. The need for medical records is determined by the nature of the illness or the circumstances of the injury. If access to requested medical records is refused, the medical bill(s) cannot be shared.

D. Lifestyle

Members must follow the Christian lifestyle and agree to the Statement of Faith. This is essential for medical bills to be shared. Members 18 years or older who do not follow the Christian lifestyle will have their membership cancelled. Examples of behavior that can lead to non-sharing and/or cancellation of membership include, but are not limited to:
• the use of tobacco in any form
• the abuse of drugs including legal drugs, such as, alcohol, prescription and over-the-counter medications
• sexual relations outside of traditional Christian marriage
• participation in activities that represent a willful disregard for personal safety

If a Member experiences significant weight gain, he or she will be given the opportunity to participate as a Health Partner (see Section II. D.). The Health Partner must make significant progress toward the established goals. If progress is not made, the Member risks having his or her membership cancelled.

E. Sharing for Members 65 and Older

Members who turn 65 years of age who choose not to change to Senior Assist may continue to participate in Medi-Share.

Senior Assist details are outlined in Section II. H.

When a Member has Medicare, Medi-Share will be secondary. Sharing of Eligible Medical Bills incurred on or after the first day of the month a Member turns 65 is based on the difference between the Medicare-allowable charges and the actual amounts paid by Medicare. The provider must submit a copy of the Medicare Explanation of Benefits and the CMS 1500, or UB and IB form.

F. Pre-Existing Medical Conditions or Related Conditions

Medical bills for diagnosis or treatment for a non-congenital, pre-existing medical condition, defined as signs/symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, or medication for a condition prior to membership, will be eligible for sharing as follows:
• The condition is eligible for sharing up to $100,000 per Member per calendar year if:
-the Member has been sharing faithfully for 12 consecutive months, and
-the medical records state the diagnosis/condition has gone 36 consecutive months without signs/symptoms, treatment, or medication.
• The condition is eligible for sharing up to $500,000 per Member per calendar year if:
-the Member has been sharing faithfully for 60 consecutive months, and
-the medical records state that the diagnosis/condition has gone 60 consecutive months, without signs/symptoms, treatment, or medication.
• High Blood Pressure: 
   -Ongoing evaluation or treatment of high blood pressure/hypertension or cholesterol that is diagnosed prior to membership is ineligible for sharing. 
   -High blood pressure or cholesterol that is controlled through medication or lifestyle will not be considered a pre-existing medical condition for purposes of determining eligibility for future vascular events.

Other Pre-Existing Limitations and Exclusions
• Permanent, lifelong diagnosis/conditions are ineligible for sharing.

• “Mini-Strokes” or Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA) will be eligible for sharing if there have been no further episodes, signs/symptoms, diagnosis or treatments for 60 months since the last TIA.

• Cancer (including metastases or new cancer of the same type as a previous cancer) can be eligible for sharing up to $500,000 per Member per calendar year. To be eligible, the Member must be cancer-free for a period of 84 months from conclusion of signs/symptoms and/or treatment. This is regardless of cancer location.
• Medical bills for the replacement of a joint will only be considered eligible for sharing if: 
-the joint was not previously replaced, 
-the need for a replacement does not stem from a pre-existing medical condition, such as, arthritis, and/or 
-the Member was not informed prior to membership of the future need to replace the joint in question.

G. Preliminary Eligibility Review for Non-Emergency Surgical/Medical Procedures

A Member can receive a preliminary determination of whether or not his or her proposed treatment appears to be eligible for sharing. This is done by requesting a medical history review. To request a review, contact Member Services at (800) 264-2562. Final eligibility determination is made after the medical bills are submitted for processing. It is possible a treatment that appeared to be eligible for sharing during the preliminary eligibility review will be determined to be ineligible if:
• New information or additional medical records are provided that make the treatment ineligible due to pre-existing condition(s)

• New information or additional medical records are provided that make the treatment ineligible due to lifestyle issue(s)

• Additional procedures that were not reviewed for eligibility were performed

The number of days required to complete a preliminary eligibility review depends on the responsiveness of the providers who are asked to send in medical records.

H. Medical Procedures Requiring Pre-Eligibility Determination

Listed below are treatments, medical conditions, procedures, and services that need pre-eligibility review. If not reviewed and determined to be eligible for sharing by CCM beforehand, the following may be deemed ineligible. Pre-eligibility review does not guarantee eligibility for sharing.

Members and/or their providers should contact CCM before scheduling any of the following treatments, procedures or services:

• Alternative care (see Section VI A.)

• Ambulance and air evacuations in non-life threatening situations— In life-threatening situations, the destination must be the nearest facility capable of providing the medically required care.

• Cardiac rehabilitation – Beyond 20 sessions

• Chiropractic care and manipulation therapy— In cases which have been diagnosed by a licensed physician (M.D. or D.O) and the Member is offered only a surgical option, a chiropractic resolution may be eligible for sharing in lieu of surgery. The Member's physician must provide a case history, x-rays and a recommendation for chiropractic  resolution. If approved, chiropractic care is limited to a  maximum of 20 visits within a six week period. Tests ordered by a chiropractor are not eligible for sharing.

• Durable Medical Equipment (DME) – Rental or purchase of medical and hospital equipment

• Home Care – Home care beyond 5 visits

• Non-hospital admissions - Inpatient admission to a skilled nursing facility, rehabilitation facility or inpatient hospice

• Organ or bone marrow transplantation – Transplantation services are considered for sharing when rendered by a board certified specialist. A second opinion also needs to be acquired by an independent physician. Both doctors are to confirm the medical necessity of the transplant for it to be eligible.

• Physical Therapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) – Beyond 20 sessions combined.

• Prostheses (for example artificial limbs)

• Selected elective (non-emergency) surgical procedures: 
--Blepharoplasty (non-cosmetic eyelid lift) 
--Bunion surgery 
--Cataract surgery 
--Joint replacement 
--Orthopedic surgery which requires an inpatient stay 
--Hysterectomy 
--Reconstructive surgery (e.g. breast cancer for the affected breast and the non-affected breast if recommended for purposes of symmetry) 
--Rhinoplasty/ septoplasty/ sinus surgery 
--Spinal surgery 
--Varicose vein surgery/ sclerotherapy/ ablation

• Sleep apnea studies

• Speech therapy – only considered for post-stroke and post-trauma

I. Medical Conditions and Services Subject to Limited Sharing

Listed below are the treatments, medical conditions, procedures, and services with sharing stipulations:

• Hospital room charges – Sharing is for the cost of a semi-private room unless a private room is medically necessary or the facility does not offer semi-private rooms.

• Prescription drugs – Prescription medications, including allergy injections, are eligible for sharing for six months per each new condition that is not pre-existing. This includes prescription drugs that may be dispensed, injected or administered by a Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.), Nurse Practitioner (N.P.), Physician Assistant (P.A.), or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.). Exceptions may be made in the case of medications for cancer and transplant recipients.

• Spinal injections - Injections are capped at three injections for any one of the spinal regions (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral/coccygeal). All three injections in any one region must occur within a 12-month period.

J. Medical Conditions and Services Not Eligible for Sharing

If a medical bill is related to a diagnosis, treatment or procedure that is ineligible for sharing in any way, then that medical bill is also ineligible.

Listed below are the treatments, medical conditions, procedures, and services that are ineligible for sharing:
• Expenses related to non-Biblical lifestyles and choices – including but not limited to: 
--Abortion of a live fetus (baby) 
--Alcohol and drug related injuries and illnesses 
--Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV - Exceptions include innocent transmission via transfusion, verified rape, work-related needle stick, or sex within marriage 
--Illegal acts - Any charges for a condition, disability or expense resulting from being engaged in an illegal occupation or the commission of or attempted commission of a crime 
 --Intentionally self-inflicted injuries (e.g. suicide or attempted suicide) 
--Maternity expenses for children conceived out of wedlock with an exception for pregnancy resulting from a verified rape

• Behavioral/Mental Health care – including, but not limited to: 
--Psychiatric or psychological care 
--Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias 
--Special education charges 
--Counseling or care for learning deficiencies or behavioral problems, whether or not associated with a manifest mental disorder or other disturbance (e.g. Attention Deficit Disorders or Autism)

• Cosmetic procedures – including, but not limited to, breast augmentation or reduction (see Section VI. H. for exceptions for breast reconstruction after breast cancer)

• Dental and periodontal services – including, but not limited to: 
--Removal of wisdom teeth 
--Orthodontic/oral surgery (exception for trauma within one year of diagnosis) 
--Repair or replacement of dentures, bridges, and appliances 
--Diagnosis and treatment of temporal mandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction or disease related to the joint that connects the jaw to the skull. This includes, but is not limited to braces, splints, appliances or surgery of any type 
--Complications or infections related to dental procedures

• Fertility/infertility care – including, but not limited to: 
 --Birth control procedures, such as IUD, and/or related supplies 
 --Infertility testing and treatment 
--Sterilization or reversals (vasectomy and tubal ligation)

• Miscellaneous care 
--Care for symptoms not related to a specifically diagnosable disease, injury, or congenital defect, such as ongoing fatigue and malaise 
--Congenital conditions - Care for congenital (from birth) defects and genetic conditions with signs/symptoms or diagnosis prior to membership, except when the Member has been continuously a Member from birth (see Section VII. D.) 
--CPAP Machines 
--Custodial Care/Long-term Care 
--Durable Medical Equipment (DME) – for example: crutches, wheelchairs, commodes and hospitals beds 
--Hearing aids 
--Non-prescription (over the counter) drugs and medical supplies/equipment 
--Podiatric Orthotics (shoe inserts) 
--Telephone consultation, Internet consultations, missed appointment fees 
--Veteran Administration care and treatment 
--Weight control and management

• Routine and preventive care – including, but not limited to, all well-patient care and screening tests and procedures, such as:* 
--Physicals 
--Immunizations and vaccinations 
--Lab studies 
--Screening mammograms 
--Screening colonoscopy 
--Routine optometric care and refractions 
--Genetic testing not required for treatment of an existing condition 
--Prophylactic and preventive surgery without personal history of diagnosis and doctor recommendation
*There are exceptions for routine well-baby care (see Section VII E.).

• Billing irregularities 

    --Delayed submissions - Bills are to be received by CCM within 12 months from the date of service to be considered for sharing. Additional information requested from the Member and/or provider needs to be received by CCM within the 12 months of service or the 90 days from the date requested, whichever is greater. 
    --Improper submissions – Bills are to be submitted by the provider following standard healthcare industry submission and coding guidelines. This is necessary for bills to be considered for sharing. 
        -Improperly coded or submitted bills will not be shared. 
        -Excessive or unnecessary provider charges are not eligible for sharing.

K. Conflicts of Interest

Medical bills will be ineligible for sharing if the provider or ordering provider is related to the Member by blood, marriage, or adoption or if the Member has a financial interest in the provider. Exceptions must be approved by CCM prior to treatment.

L. Extra Blessings

Members offer Extra Blessing contributions to further support the biblical concept of sharing one another’s burdens. Members with adoptions expenses after two events (see Section VIII.) or significant medical bills ineligible for sharing can receive financial assistance from these Extra Blessings contributions. A list of Members who have requested Extra Blessings assistance is published with the Monthly Share notices.

Extra Blessings donations can be: 

    -Sent directly to Members on the list 

    -Sent directly to CCM* 

    -Pledged monthly through Monthly Shares*

*These contributions are tax deductible.

One hundred percent (100%) of Extra Blessings gifts received by CCM are distributed on a pro-rated basis to the Members on the Extra Blessings List. For more information, Members should contact Member Services at (800) 264-2562.

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A. Eligibility for Sharing
B. Maternity Complications 
C. Multiple Births as a Result of Infertility Treatment
D. Newborn Status
E. Well-Baby Care
F. Pregnancies of Unwed Mothers   

A. Eligibility for Sharing

Pregnant Members with an Annual Household Portion of $1,250 or higher who have faithfully shared from the month of conception through the month of delivery are eligible for maternity sharing. Members with a $500 AHP are not eligible for sharing of any maternity or adoption expenses. To be eligible, delivery must be performed by one of the following:

• Medical Doctor
• Doctor of Osteopathy
• Midwife who is properly licensed, certified and/or registered in the state of delivery as required by state law

Members may qualify for Medicaid or any private benevolence programs. Those who do use programs such as these will receive an incentive in the form of a share credit. The share credit is 10% of the total Eligible Medical Bills the program paid. This credit is for up to 12 months of reduced or waived shares. This incentive is only available and applied to the Monthly Sharing Portion. Members will still need to deposit their Monthly Administrative Portion and other fees in full.

B. Maternity Complications

The cost of treatment for life-threatening complications to mother and/or child(ren) can be shared when the maternity is eligible for sharing. The treatment expense for complications is considered a separate event from the maternity.

C. Multiple Births as a Result of Infertility Treatment

Sharing up to $25,000 is available for multiple births resulting from infertility treatments.  The $25,000 includes the cost of delivery and complications to the mother and/or children.


D. Newborn Status

If the mother is a Member at the time of delivery: 
• The newborn can be a member from birth if an “Add a Newborn” form is completed and submitted within 30 days of delivery; 
• The Member can submit an “Add a Family Member” application for the newborn if the “Add a Newborn” form is not completed and submitted within 30 days of delivery. The newborn’s Effective Date would be the first day of the following month after approval. 

If the mother is not a Member at the time of delivery, an "Add a Family Member" form can be submitted for the newborn and once approved the newborn will be added onto membership the first of the month following approval.

If the mother is not a Member from the time of conception through delivery, the following are instances where maternity bills are ineligible for sharing: 
• Medical bills incurred before the newborn’s Effective Date 
• Unresolved maternity medical conditions of child or mother 

If the mother is not a Member at the time of conception through delivery, the mother and/or child(ren) are ineligible for Extra Blessings for that pregnancy or complications from that pregnancy. 

E. Well-Baby Care

Christian Care Ministry highly values the importance of family and wants to ensure newborn Members receive the very best care in the early stages of their life. After meeting the AHP, up to $775 per year for the first two years of life for routine well-baby care is eligible for sharing. Well-baby care is defined as recommended, routine check-ups and vaccinations and/or immunizations. 

F. Pregnancies of Unwed Mothers 

Members agree that sex should be exclusively within traditional Christian marriage. Thus, maternity medical expenses for newborns conceived outside of marriage are ineligible for sharing. Pregnancies resulting from verifiable rape reported to a law enforcement authority are the only exception. 

In order to encourage and support the preservation of the lives of these unborn children, Christian Care Ministry is dedicated to assisting in arranging for maternity and adoption services through Christian organizations.

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The Medi-Share program allows Members to share in adoption costs. Up to two adoption events can be shared per Member Household. The adoption of multiple children at the same time is considered one event. Sharing is available according to the following chart. For adoptions, the AHP does not have to be met for sharing to occur. The adopted child(ren) cannot be related to the Member or spouse by blood or marriage.

*Adoption sharing is not available for Members with a $500 AHP.

The first event is eligible for sharing after the Member shares at a level set for two or more persons for 24 continuous months prior to the adoption becoming final. 

The second event will only be considered for sharing if:
  •membership has been without break since the first finalized and shared adoption event, and
  •at least 12 months have passed since the first finalized adoption event to the second finalized adoption event, and
  •sharing was at a level set for two or more persons for the entire period between adoption events. 

The sharing of adoption expenses does not imply a child automatically qualifies for inclusion in the Member Household (see Section II. E.).

If they have been Members for the timeframes outlined above, Members may apply for Extra Blessings (see Section VI. L.) to receive additional monetary assistance for adoption costs after the second adoption event. The Extra Blessings amount cannot exceed the original adoption sharing limit per program listed in the previous chart.

Medi-Share Is Not a Substitute for Insurance Required By Law

Medi-Share is not insurance. However, Medi-Share can be used as a substitute for or exemption from mandated insurance coverage in the following circumstances:
• to satisfy the federal mandate that becomes effective January 1, 2014 requiring "applicable individuals" to maintain "minimum essential [insurance] coverage"
• to satisfy the Massachusetts requirement to maintain "minimum creditable [insurance] coverage"

These are the only exceptions. Otherwise, Members must not certify that Medi-Share is insurance to avoid purchasing insurance required by law, rule or regulation (for example, worker’s compensation insurance or sports activity insurance).

A. Age, Safety Equipment and Lifestyle
B. Motorcycle Injuries
C. Reporting Injuries

A. Age, Safety Equipment and Lifestyle

If a motor vehicle or aircraft accident occurs, there are some additional considerations for sharing eligibility. Diagnosis and treatment of injuries will not be eligible to be shared if any of the following applies:

• There was abuse of alcohol or legal drugs, or the use of illegal drugs.
• The vehicle or aircraft was used in a race, to perform a stunt, or in the commission of a crime.
• The minimum operator age recommended by the manufacturer or required by law was not followed.
These apply regardless of whether the Member was operating the vehicle or was a passenger.

Helmets and seatbelts are expected to be worn when they are legally required. If either was not used but was legally required, Members have an additional member portion. This additional amount is calculated as 15% of the first $100,000 of Eligible Medical Bills related to a motorized vehicle or aircraft accident. This 15% is in addition to the Member’s AHP.

B. Motorcycle Injuries

A Member can receive up to $100,000 in sharing of Eligible Medical Bills toward diagnosis and treatment of motorcycle accident injuries incurred in a 12-month period. A motorcycle is defined as a two-wheeled, motorized vehicle with an engine size displacement of at least 50 cubic centimeters. A Member who is injured, while on a motorcycle used to perform mission work outside of the U.S., is exempt from this $100,000 limit.

C. Reporting Injuries

Members call Member Services (800-264-2562) to report injury details of motorized vehicle accidents. The following documents may be necessary to determine eligibility for sharing:
• A copy of the insurance policy for an owned vehicle or aircraft (or the contract if rented or leased)
• The official accident report
• Medical records relating to the care and transportation of the injured Member(s)
• Information that pertains to other vehicle(s) and parties involved in the accident

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There are provisions when a Member dies to help ease the burden on the family. Up to $5,000 of the final expenses listed below are eligible for sharing if the Member met the "Qualifications for membership" at the time of death, and
• the Member was under the age of 65 years, or
• under the age of 70 and an active Medi-Share Member for 5 full years prior to the date of death.
Final expenses eligible for sharing are limited to the following expenses:
• embalming
• cremation
• casket
• headstone
• burial plot
• funeral director's costs
• flowers
• travel expenses for the Member’s body

The original bill(s) and a certified copy of the death certificate(s) are to be submitted to CCM within one year of the death of the Member.

Up to $5,000 in burial expenses for stillborn children are eligible for sharing per pregnancy.

A. Members Entitled to Insurance or Other Benefits
B. Injury on the Property of Another 
C. Medi-Share and Subrogation 

A. Members Entitled to Insurance or Other Benefits

There are many benefits to participating in a healthcare sharing ministry. However, it is important Members understand Medi-Share is not insurance. If a Member has insurance or is eligible/qualified for any of the following, the Member must cooperate with CCM in qualifying for such payments:
• Worker’s Compensation
• Fraternal benefits designed to pay all or part of medical bill(s)

Those resources must be exhausted before medical bill(s) will be considered for sharing.

There is an incentive for Members who apply, qualify, and receive benefits from Medicaid or any private benevolence program. Members can receive a share credit of 10% of the total Eligible Medical Bills the program paid. This credit is for a maximum of 12 months of reduced or waived shares. This incentive is only applied to the Monthly Sharing Portion. Members will still need to deposit their Monthly Administrative Portion and other fees in full.

B. Injury on the Property of Another 

If a Member is injured on the property of another, the following apply:
• Members are encouraged to work with CCM to pursue claims against the property owner.
• If the injury is a result of an incident eligible for worker’s compensation or negligence on the part of the property owner, the Member must cooperate with CCM in the pursuit of the claim before medical bill(s) will be considered for sharing.

C. Medi-Share and Subrogation

Christian Care Ministry, Inc. (“CCM”), for the benefit of Members, will be subrogated to any and all rights that a Member has against any and all parties responsible for causing the injuries or illnesses for amounts Members provided to or for the benefit of the Member, including any and all first monies paid (or payable) to or on behalf of the Member and regardless of whether or not the Member has been made whole. CCM, for the benefit of Member, will also be reimbursed for any and all amounts Members provide to or on behalf of a Member as a result of injuries or illnesses which result from the actions or liability of a third party, and/or which result in a settlement, judgment or other award or recovery to or by a Member from a third party tortfeasor, including any person or entity liable for or indemnifying the Member. CCM’s subrogation rights for the benefit of Members are listed below and a Member’s membership in Medi-Share is subject to and conditioned upon fulfillment of the following terms and conditions.

(1) CCM, once Members have made payment of any amount to or for the benefit of the Member, is granted a lien for the benefit of Members on the proceeds of any payment, settlement, judgment, or other remuneration received by the Member from a third party tortfeasor, person or entity, and the Member hereby consents to this lien and agrees to take any actions or steps necessary to secure this lien and help CCM recover same;

(2) CCM is granted a specific right of reimbursement for the benefit of Members out of the proceeds of any settlement, judgment, or other payment by a third party tortfeasor, person, or entity to or on behalf of the Member. Until reimbursement is received in full, CCM is entitled to the right of setoff against any eligible sharing requests of the Member or any Member of the Member’s family to recover the reimbursement amount on behalf of the Members. This right of reimbursement is separate and apart from the subrogation rights of CCM and are limited only by the actual amount provided by Members to or for the benefit of the Member;

(3) The Member and his attorney, if he has one, shall execute and deliver a subrogation agreement to CCM and any and all other instruments, documents or papers necessary to affect and/or secure subrogation and reimbursement rights;

(4) The Member agrees to and is obligated to cooperate with CCM and/or any and all representatives of CCM, including subrogation counsel, in completing discovery, attending depositions, and/or attending or cooperating in trial in order to affect CCM’s subrogation rights for the benefit of Members. Furthermore, the Member shall do nothing to prejudice the aforementioned subrogation rights. The Member must freely give any and all information surrounding any accident that CCM or its subrogation counsel or representatives may deem necessary to fully investigate the injuries or illness or that may affect these subrogation rights.

(5) CCM’s subrogation, reimbursement and lien rights, as stated above, apply to any recoveries made by the Member as a result of the injuries sustained or illness suffered for which amounts were provided to or for the benefit of the Member by other Members, including but not limited to the following;
(a) Any award or settlement or benefits paid under any workers’ compensation law or award;
(b) Any and all payments made directly by a third party tortfeasor, person, entity, or any insurance company on behalf of the third party tortfeasor or any payments or installments made to the Member on behalf of the third party tortfeasors, person, or entity responsible for indemnifying the third party tortfeasors;
(c) Any arbitration awards, payments, settlements, structured settlements, or other benefits paid by an insurance company under an uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage policy, whether on behalf of the Member, his employer or any other person;
(d) Any other payments designated, delineated, earmarked, or intended to be paid to the Member as compensation, restitution, or remuneration for injuries sustained or illnesses suffered as the result of the negligence, or liability, including contractual, of a third party.

(6) No Member may assign any rights or causes of action that he or she might have against a third party tortfeasor, person, or entity, which would grant the Member the right to recover medical expenses or other damages, without the express, prior written consent of CCM. CCM’s subrogation and reimbursement rights for the benefit of Medi-Share Members apply even if the Member has died as a result of his or her injuries and is asserting a wrongful death or survivor claim against the third party tortfeasor under the laws of any state. CCM’s right to recover by subrogation or reimbursement shall thus apply to any settlements, recoveries, or causes of action owned or obtained by a descendent, minor, incompetent or disabled person.

(7) CCM’s right of subrogation and reimbursement, as set forth herein, will not be affected, reduced, or eliminated by the “made whole doctrine” or any other equitable doctrine or law which requires the Member to be “made whole” before subrogation rights are allowed. Furthermore, it is prohibited for a Member or beneficiaries to settle a claim against a third party for certain elements of damages, but eliminating damages relating to medical expenses incurred.

(8) CCM’s right of subrogation and reimbursement for the benefit of Members will not be reduced or affected as a result of any fault or claim on the part of the Member, whether under the doctrines of imperative causation, comparative fault or contributory negligence, or any other similar doctrine in law. Accordingly, any so called “lien reduction statutes” which attempt to apply such laws and reduce a subrogation recovery for any reason, including contributory negligence, will not be applicable to CCM and will not reduce CCM’s subrogation recovery. Amounts provided to or for the benefit of the Member by other Members are secondary to any benefits or coverage provided under any no-fault laws or similar legislation or no-fault-type insurance.

(9) Upon providing CCM with a copy of its fee agreement with the Member and a copy of the settlement agreement, judgment, arbitration award or other document evidencing a recovery obtained on behalf of the Member, the attorney for the Member, if any, may reduce CCM’s lien by an amount equal to the lesser of (1) the proportional share of the attorney’s actual fees incurred in obtaining the recovery for the Member or (2) thirty three percent (33%). Except as otherwise provided in the preceding sentence, CCM will not be responsible for any expenses, fees, costs, or other monies incurred by the attorney for the Member or his beneficiaries, commonly known as the common fund doctrine. The Member is specifically prohibited from incurring any expenses, costs, or fees on behalf of CCM in pursuit of his rights of recovery against a third party or CCM’s subrogation/reimbursement rights as set forth herein. No court costs, experts’ fees, filing fees or other costs or expenses of a litigation nature may be deducted from CCM’s recovery for the benefit of Medi-Share Members.

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A. Impartiality
B. Sharing Appeal
C. Biblically-Based Mediation and Arbitration

A. Impartiality

Christian Care Ministry serves Members who share in the burdens of fellow Christians. CCM does not gain financially by determining medical bills are ineligible for sharing among Members. CCM is a not-for-profit corporation, recognized as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. CCM has no owners, stockholders or investors. CCM impartially carries out the wishes of the Members as expressed in these Medi-Share Guidelines.

B. Sharing Appeal

A Member can appeal bill-sharing decisions with which they disagree. Before appealing, a Member should engage in careful thought and prayer about whether he or she honestly believes an error was made. Members have 90 days from the day the decision in question was made to request a review by CCM.

A Member can issue an appeal if he or she believes:
• the medical records were misread,
• the Guidelines were misapplied, or
• one or more of the Member’s providers incorrectly recorded the medical history.
After a review by CCM, if the Member disagrees with CCM’s decision, the Member has 90 days to request a review by a Seven Member Appeal Panel. CCM and the Member will both submit a written position statement to the panel. A teleconference will be held where the panel can ask questions of both the Member and CCM. A simple majority vote (four out of seven) will carry the decision.

C. Biblically-Based Mediation and Arbitration

As Christians, the Members and the staff of Christian Care Ministry believe that the Bible commands them to make every effort to live at peace and to resolve disputes with each other in private or within the Christian community in conformity with the biblical injunctions of 1 Corinthians 6:1-8, Matthew 5:23-24, and Matthew 18:15-20. Therefore, the parties agree that any claim or dispute arising out of, or related to, this agreement or any aspect thereof, including claims under federal, state, local statutory or common law, the law of contract or law of tort, that may remain after a Member has exhausted his appeals provided for in Section XIII. B., including a determination whether this arbitration provision is valid, shall be settled by biblically-based mediation. The mediation shall be conducted in accordance with the Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation of the Institute for Christian Conciliation, a division of Peacemaker Ministries (complete text of the rules is available at HisPeace.org), with each party to bear their own costs, attorney’s fees and 50% of the mediator’s fee, and with the mediation filing fee to be borne by CCM.

If resolution of the dispute and reconciliation do not result from mediation, the matter shall then be submitted to an independent and objective arbitrator for binding arbitration. The parties agree that the arbitration process will also be conducted in accordance with the Rules of Procedure for Christian Conciliation, with each party to bear their own costs, attorney’s fees, and 50% of the arbitrator’s fee, and with the arbitration filing fee to be borne by CCM. Each party shall agree to the selection of the arbitrator. If there is an impasse in the selection of the arbitrator, the parties agree that the Institute for Christian Conciliation shall choose the arbitrator.

The parties agree that these methods of dispute resolution shall be the sole remedy for any controversy or claim arising out of this agreement, and they expressly waive their right to file a lawsuit against one another in any civil court for such disputes, except to enforce a legally binding arbitration decision.

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Annual Household Portion (AHP) – The dollar amount a Member Household must pay toward their Eligible Medical Bills during a 12-month period before their bills will be published for sharing. The AHP 12-month period begins with the Effective Date.

Cancellation Date – The month and day membership ends due to the Member’s withdrawal, for reasons including not following the Guidelines or for nonpayment of monthly shares.

Effective Date – The month and day membership begins or the month and day of the most recent Annual Household Portion (AHP) change. Effective Date is used to determine when the 12-month period begins and ends for the purpose of the Annual Household Portion.

Incident - The occurrence of an illness or an injury of a member, requiring a diagnosis of symptoms and treatment of a specific condition.

Eligible Medical Bill – An incurred medical bill determined to be eligible for sharing according to the Guidelines. The Eligible Medical Bill will be reduced by any discounts, fees or other sources of payment.

Explanation of Sharing (EOS) – A statement for Members and providers that reflects how medical bills are processed. The EOS reports how much of the bill was shared, how much was discounted through the PPO network, and the amount of the Member’s responsibility, if any.

Member - Any Member of Medi-Share, including each family member participating in a Member Household.

Member Household – Every member who participates in Medi-Share with his or her immediate family under the same monthly share and AHP. A single Member is also considered a Member Household.

Monthly Share - The dollar amount that a Member faithfully contributes each month as his or her Monthly Sharing Portion and Monthly Administrative Portion. The Monthly Share is subject to change without notice. 
    • Monthly Sharing Portion - The dollar amount of a Monthly Share that pays all or part of one or more of another Member’s Eligible Medical Bills. 
    • Monthly Administrative Portion - The dollar amount of a Monthly Share that is transferred to CCM for the payment of its administrative expenses.

Provider Fee – The amount that a Member pays at each visit to a medical provider, which applies even after the Annual Household Portion (AHP) has been met or exceeded. The Provider Fee is not applied toward the AHP.

Published Bill – A bill that is eligible for sharing based on the Guidelines and meets the other criteria for sharing, including whether the member’s AHP has been met and if other sharing limits have not been exceeded.

Published for sharing—The act of notifying the membership of an Eligible Medical Bill prior to its release for sharing using available Members’ shares.