How Do I Use a Health Sharing Plan?
A health sharing plan helps members manage medical expenses by pooling resources within a community. While it’s not insurance, it operates on a cost-sharing model where members contribute monthly and share in each other’s medical bills.
Steps to Use Your Health Sharing Plan
✅ Step 1: Visit a Healthcare Provider
- Choose any doctor, hospital, or clinic (depending on your plan's network and provider flexibility).
- Inform them that you are a self-pay patient (since Healthshare plans do not work like traditional insurance).
✅ Step 2: Request a Discount for Cash Payment
- Many providers offer discounted rates for patients paying out of pocket.
- Some Healthshare programs negotiate discounts on your behalf.
✅ Step 3: Submit a Medical Expense for Sharing
- Obtain an itemized bill from your provider.
- Submit it to your Healthshare organization following their specific process.
- Pay any required personal responsibility amount (similar to a deductible).
✅ Step 4: Reimbursement & Sharing Process
- Your Healthshare community will review the expense for eligibility.
- If approved, other members’ contributions help cover your medical costs.
- Reimbursement is typically sent to you or directly to your provider.
What Types of Expenses Are Shared?
Most Healthshare plans cover major medical expenses, including:
✔ Doctor visits & hospitalizations
✔ Emergency room care
✔ Surgeries & medical procedures
✔ Maternity care (for some plans)
✔ Preventative care & wellness (depends on the plan)
⚠ Not Covered:
❌ Pre-existing conditions (may have waiting periods)
❌ Elective procedures & cosmetic surgery
❌ Routine dental & vision (some plans offer discounts)
Health Sharing vs. Traditional Insurance
| Feature | Health Sharing Plans | Traditional Health Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ✅ Typically lower | ❌ Higher premiums |
| Provider Flexibility | ✅ Usually any provider | ❌ Limited to network doctors |
| Guaranteed Coverage? | ❌ No, some conditions may not be covered | ✅ Yes, covers pre-existing conditions |
| Pre-existing Conditions | ❌ May have a waiting period or limits | ✅ Covered under ACA-compliant plans |
| Regulated by State Laws? | ❌ No, operates independently | ✅ Yes, regulated by state & federal laws |
Tips for Maximizing Your Health Sharing Plan
🔹 Know Your Plan’s Guidelines – Each Healthshare program has different rules for expense sharing.
🔹 Negotiate Bills When Possible – Many providers offer cash discounts when you pay upfront.
🔹 Keep All Medical Receipts – Ensure smooth processing by saving itemized bills and receipts.
🔹 Understand Pre-Existing Condition Policies – Some plans may not cover pre-existing conditions immediately.
Is a Health Sharing Plan Right for You?
A Healthshare plan may be a good fit if:
✅ You are generally healthy and don’t require frequent medical care.
✅ You want lower monthly costs compared to traditional insurance.
✅ You are comfortable with a cost-sharing model instead of guaranteed coverage.
✅ You prefer freedom to choose your providers rather than being limited by a network.
Next Steps: Explore Your Health Sharing Options
Want to find the best Healthshare plan for your needs? Compare programs and see which one fits your lifestyle and budget.