As community-based organizations, all health sharing companies have a list of guiding principles that all members are expected to follow. Some healthshare programs refer to these principles as the Statement of Faith, while others say Statement of Belief, Statement of Standards, or Principles of Membership.
This guide will explore both the differences and similarities between these concepts. It will also provide examples of each, as well as instructions on how to find this information while shopping for a healthshare plan.
Never Heard of Health Care Cost Sharing?
Known simply as Healthshare, medical cost sharing programs allow community members to split the cost of healthcare amongst themselves.
These programs are not insurance, but rather forward-thinking independent organizations that bring like-minded people together.
While not technically insurance, healthshare plans work similarly. The member submits a monthly contribution, or share. In exchange, their medical bills can be eligible for community cost sharing. It’s simpler, more flexible, and about half the cost of unsubsidized health insurance.
DEEP DIVE: Click Here to Learn More About the Concept of Medical Cost Sharing Programs
What is a Healthshare Statement of Faith?
A Statement of Faith is a collection of statements that members must agree to in order to join a faith-based healthshare program.
Many healthshare organizations restrict their membership to people who are also members of the Christian Faith, which is why most Statements of Faith are based on the Bible.
Others profess a more general belief in God, and some are based on other faiths such as Judaism.
Healthshare Statement of Faith Example: MediShare
One of the largest Christian healthshare organizations is Medi-Share. The MediShare Statement of Faith is a good example of the form.
Here’s what in the MediShare Statement of Faith (paraphrased):
- Belief in one God in three Persons: The Father, Son, & Holy Spirit
- Belief in the Bible as God’s written testament
- Belief in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior
- Agreement to live by biblical standards
- Agreement to bear one another’s burdens
- Agreement to actively attend and support a fellowship of believers
- Commitment to live a healthy lifestyle, avoiding the use of tobacco and illegal drugs
While the MediShare Statement of Faith is somewhat typical of Christian healthshare, there can be some big differences. For example, most healthshare programs do not require their members to attend church regularly.
What is a Healthshare Statement of Belief?
A Statement of Belief is similar to the Statement of Faith, in that it affirms a dedication to biblical principles. However, the Statement of Belief tends to be more flexible than the Statement of Faith.
Health Share Statement of Belief Example: OneShare Health
OneShare Health’s Statement of Belief is the best example. This is a brief, 5-part statement that is based on specific Biblical teachings but is less explicit about religious belief.
The Statement of Belief includes belief in:
- The authority of Biblical Scripture and the sanctity of human life
- The fact that all individuals have the right and freedom to worship God
- The Biblical principle of sharing with those who are less fortunate
- Our responsibility to God and fellow members is to live a healthy lifestyle
- The power of prayer to heal, save lives and unite members in common purpose.
How to Find the Right Health Share Plan to Suit Your Beliefs
Finding a health share plan that aligns with your beliefs involves several steps:
- Research Health Share Plans
Determine what specific beliefs and values are important to you regarding healthcare, then look for health share plans that are consistent with your beliefs. Research online, ask for recommendations from people who share your beliefs, and check reviews. - Review Plan Guidelines
Once you’ve found potential health share plans, review their guidelines carefully. Pay attention to their coverage, eligibility requirements, member responsibilities, and any restrictions. - Compare Costs
Compare the costs of different health share plans, including monthly contributions, deductibles, and any additional fees. Make sure to consider your budget and financial situation. - Examine Coverage
Assess the coverage offered by each plan. Determine if they cover the healthcare services you need, including preventive care, hospitalizations, prescriptions, and pre-existing conditions. - Understand Membership Requirements
Understand the requirements for becoming a member of each health share plan, such as lifestyle commitments, medical exams, and membership fees. - Evaluate Network Providers
Check if the health share plan has a network of healthcare providers, and if your preferred doctors and hospitals are included in the network. - Review Member Feedback
Look for feedback from current or past members of the health share plans you’re considering. This can provide insights into the quality of service and member experiences. - Enroll and Participate
Once you’ve selected a health share plan, complete the enrollment process and actively participate in the community, fulfilling your responsibilities as a member.
You can reach out to a Personal Benefits Manager at 800-913-0172 for health share plans with any questions or concerns you may have. They’ll help you clarify any uncertainties before making a decision.
Compare Pricing on the Best HealthShare Plans Available
Are There Non-Religious Health Sharing Plans?
Not all healthshare plans are explicitly based on the Christian faith. Not only are some healthshare plans available for members of the Jewish or Catholic church, but many newer programs are available with no affiliation at all.
MPB Health asks its members to agree to a non-denominational Principles of Membership. Similarly, Sedera Health has a Statement of Standards that includes belief in caring for one another, living a healthy lifestyle, and avoiding excess alcohol consumption.
Where Can I Find My Healthshare Member Guidelines?
No matter which healthshare program you’re interested in, it’s always a good idea to review the member guidelines before enrolling. These can be found on the healthshare organization’s main website, usually listed either under ‘Members’ or ‘Resources’.
The healthshare member guidelines will list the statement of faith or belief that is required.
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Ready to learn more about Health Care Cost Sharing? Call 800-913-0172 to begin, or click here to secure your no-cost consultation.
Here are some additional articles on healthsharing programs: How to Pair a Health Sharing Plan with your Direct Primary Care (DPC) Membership | How a Christian Healthcare Sharing Ministry Can Benefit Your Church, and It’s Congregation
Here are some additional pages related to this article: Answers to the Most Frequently asked Questions about Health Sharing Plans and Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs) | How Smart Consumers are Opting Out of Obamacare and Slashing Their Costs by Joining Healthshare Programs Instead!
Hi! I’m Mike Montes, and I’m one of your Personal Benefits Managers. I like working with HSA for America because we’re creating solutions to healthcare problems. Our focus on money-saving alternatives like HSA plans and health sharing programs, and the variety of health share programs we offer, are what set us apart. Read more about me on my Bio page.
