Health Care
Sharing Ministries
Overview
What Are Health Care Sharing Ministries?
Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs) offer a faith-based way to handle medical costs. Rooted in the Biblical practice of sharing, these groups let members join a community to help pay each other’s medical bills. At the same time, members uphold their shared values and beliefs.
How Do Health Care Sharing Ministries Work?
The process relies on a simple, community-driven model. Members support one another through monthly giving. Here is how the process works:
Monthly Shares
You give a set amount of money each month. We call this a “share.”
Sharing Medical Needs
When you have an approved medical expense, the community uses the pooled shares to help cover the cost.
Prayer and Support
Members do more than help with money. They also pray for you and offer support during hard times.
Biblical Lifestyles
Members agree to live healthy lives & follow Biblical values. This shared commitment helps keep costs low.
Why Choose a Health Care Sharing Ministry?
HCSMs give you a choice that fits your faith and budget. Here are the top benefits:
Faith-Centered Community
You connect with people who share your values, prayers, and support.
Lower Costs
Sharing ministries often cost less each month than standard health insurance.
Values-Aligned Giving
You know your money supports people who share your beliefs.
Legal Exemption
HCSMs meet the rules of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). They provide a legal choice instead of standard insurance.
Clear Processes
You see exactly how your shares help others, which builds deep trust within the group.
| FEATURE | MEDI-SHARE | OTHER HCSM's |
|---|---|---|
| History and Trust | Started in 1993 with a long record of success. | Many are new and lack long-term experience. |
| Network Size | A large, nationwide group of members. | Often feature smaller, local groups. |
| Telehealth Access | 24/7 access to doctors through an easy app. | Few or no telehealth choices. |
| Prescription Savings | Built-in discounts on medicine for all members. | Often lack medicine benefits. |
| ACA Compliance | Fully meets the rules of the Affordable Care Act. | Most meet the rules, but standards vary. |
| Extra Benefits | Access to health tools, prayer groups, and events. | Usually limited to basic bill sharing. |
The Unique Benefits of Medi-Share
Medi-Share has served families of faith for more than 30 years. Our members have shared billions of dollars in medical bills. When you choose Medi-Share, you get:
A Trusted Choice: We provide a reliable, God-honoring way to manage health costs.
A Caring Network: You join a nationwide family that prays for you and lifts you up.
Complete Support: We go beyond sharing bills. You get telehealth visits, medicine discounts, and wellness programs.
Proven Success: Our decades of work mean you can trust us to handle your needs with care and honesty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Medi-Share is not insurance. It is a Christian community where members voluntarily share each other’s medical bills. Participation is an expression of faith, not a guaranteed contract.
Yes. Medi-Share qualifies as a recognized Health Care Sharing Ministry under Section 1501(b) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This means members are exempt from the individual mandate.
Medi-Share members share eligible medical bills for unexpected illnesses or injuries, as outlined in the Medi-Share Guidelines. This includes hospitalization, surgery, doctor visits, prescriptions related to an eligible event, and more.
Yes. Medi-Share has a nationwide network of healthcare providers, and you are free to see any licensed provider you choose. Using an in-network provider may provide cost savings.
Medi-Share welcomes members with pre-existing conditions. Sharing for pre-existing conditions follows specific guidelines and may be phased in over time. See the Medi-Share Guidelines for details.
Your monthly share amount depends on your household size, age, and the program you select. Most households find Medi-Share more affordable than traditional health insurance.