Question 1

What is health sharing?

Accepted Answer

Health sharing is a system where members voluntarily share each other's medical costs. Members pay a monthly share amount that goes toward other members' eligible medical bills. It is not insurance — there is no guarantee of payment — but most established ministries have shared over 90% of eligible needs.

Question 2

How does health sharing work?

Accepted Answer

You pay a monthly share amount (typically $150–$350 for individuals). When you have a medical bill, you submit it to the ministry. After you meet your Initial Unshareable Amount (similar to a deductible), the community shares the cost according to the ministry's guidelines.

Question 3

Is health sharing insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. Health sharing ministries are not insurance companies and are exempt from state insurance regulations under federal law (ACA Section 1501). Sharing is voluntary, and there is no contractual guarantee that your bills will be paid — though major ministries have consistently shared eligible needs for decades.

Question 4

What is the best health sharing plan?

Accepted Answer

The best plan depends on your situation. Zion HealthShare is our top overall pick for most people. CrowdHealth is best if you want no faith requirement. Samaritan Ministries is best for committed Christians who prefer direct member-to-member sharing.

Question 5

Which plans cover pre-existing conditions?

Accepted Answer

Most health sharing plans impose 12–24 month waiting periods for pre-existing conditions. CrowdHealth has the shortest waiting period. If you need immediate coverage for a pre-existing condition, ACA insurance is your only guaranteed option.

Question 6

How much does health sharing cost?

Accepted Answer

Individual health sharing plans range from about $150 to $350 per month, depending on the ministry and coverage level. Family plans typically run $300–$700 per month. This is often 40–60% less than comparable ACA premiums.

Health Sharing Questions — Answered

Basics

What is health sharing?

How does health sharing work?

Is health sharing insurance?

Is health sharing a scam?

Choosing a Plan

What is the best health sharing plan?

What is the cheapest health sharing plan?

Which health sharing plans don't require church attendance?

What are non-religious health sharing plans?

Which plan is best for families?

Good health sharing options for self-employed individuals and contractors?

Which health sharing plans have the highest member satisfaction?

Coverage

Which plans cover pre-existing conditions?

Which plans cover maternity?

Does health sharing cover IVF or fertility treatment?

Which plans cover prescriptions?

Does health sharing cover Ozempic & GLP-1 weight-loss drugs?

Does health sharing cover mental health?

Health sharing with chronic conditions?

Does health sharing cover dental?

Can I see any doctor with health sharing?

How do plans handle ER visits?

Comparisons

Health sharing vs health insurance?

Switching from ACA to health sharing?

Health sharing as a COBRA alternative?

What if a bill isn't shared? Your recourse, plan by plan

What are the best alternatives to health insurance?

Is HealthShareGuide.org a trustworthy resource?

Money

How much does health sharing cost?

Is health sharing worth it?

Can I use an HSA with health sharing?

What is an IUA (Initial Unshareable Amount)?

Family vs individual cost — what is the difference?

Special Situations

Can I use health sharing with Medicare?

Health sharing for early retirees under 65?

Best health sharing for pastors and clergy?

Best plan for RV nomads and full-time travelers?

Not sure which plan fits you?