Frustrated with rising healthcare costs and limited choices, millions of Americans are choosing to switch from traditional health insurance to more flexible and affordable Christian health sharing. Faith-based health sharing offers an attractive option for people looking to be part of a supportive group of Christians who share similar values, and who strive to live by Biblical principles.
Because Christian health share programs distribute the cost of medical care across their membership, members can save hundreds of dollars every month. So , it comes as no surprise to learn that faith-based health sharing is rapidly gaining in popularity. As such, today’s Americans have a wide range of Christian health share programs to choose from.
With so many options, finding the right Christian health sharing option to meet your needs, preferences and budget can be confusing. This quick-look guide makes it easier to compare the top faith-based health sharing programs to see the features, benefits, and downsides of each.
Telehealth option available
Large PPO Network
Health Incentive Program
No cap on shared amount
Large provider network
Strict Biblical statement of faith
May deny pre-existing conditions
Complex reimbursement process
Samaritan Ministries
No penalty for going out of network
Discounts for labs and pharmacies available
Can see any provider
Self-pay model only covers serious medical issues
Minor medical issues must be paid out of pocket
HealthShare
Limited to 6 visits/year
Large provider network
Discounts for dental, vision, hearing & prescriptions available
Large provider network
Higher monthly costs
Limited doctors’ visits
Liberty HealthShare
$45 per primary care visit
$100 for specialty care visit
Large provider network
Medical & pharmacy discounts available with select options
Large provider network
Don’t have to be a Christian to participate
Christian Health Ministries
Visit any provider
Choose your own provider
Choice of provider
Option for members with higher medical needs
Members negotiate medical bills and discounts
Members may have to pay more for medical bills
Deductibles as high as $5,000
Doctors’ visits as low as $20
Access to providers & telehealth services 7 days a week at no extra cost
Over 1.2 million providers nationwide
Access to 60,000 pharmacies nationwide
Ability to earn rewards points to use toward medical expenses
Multiple programs to fit variety of needs
No incident or lifetime limits
Same benefits in and out of state
Wellness and preventive care for no extra cost
Long-term illness and accident programs available
Eligibility for sharing is based on benefits and guidelines
Table Reference: https://biblereasons.com/christian-healthcare-ministries/
Choosing the Right Christian Health Sharing
When comparing health sharing programs, it is important to look not only at the monthly cost but at the range of other features offered, including flexibility in choosing a provider, telehealth availability, access to pharmacies, available discounts, selection of programs to meet varied needs, and member support.
If you’re still wondering which faith-based health sharing option is right for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’ll help you make sense of your choices so you can make an informed decision.
