Health sharing, also known as medical cost sharing, is a membership-based arrangement where individuals contribute to a community fund that helps cover each other’s medical expenses.
Unlike traditional health insurance, health sharing plans operate as non-profit organizations focused on cost-sharing rather than profit generation.
How Does Health Sharing Work?
Members contribute a fixed monthly amount, known as a “monthly share.”
When a member needs medical care, they submit a request to have their expenses shared among the group. Each health sharing plan has its own guidelines regarding eligible expenses, pre-existing conditions, and provider networks.
Since health sharing plans are not insurance, they do not fall under the same regulations as the Affordable Care Act (ACA). However, they provide significant savings, making them an attractive option for self-employed individuals, families, and anyone seeking an alternative to high insurance premiums.
Health Sharing vs. Health Insurance
Health sharing and health insurance both help individuals manage healthcare costs, but they operate under distinct models with important differences.
Cost
Health sharing plans typically cost less than traditional health insurance because they are not bound by ACA requirements.
Monthly contributions (or ‘shares’) tend to be significantly lower than insurance premiums, making them an attractive alternative for anyone seeking affordability.
Flexibility in Provider Choice
Most health sharing plans let members see any doctor or specialist, unlike insurance plans that require in-network providers for coverage.
This flexibility is a major advantage for those who prefer specific healthcare providers.
Regulation and Coverage Requirements
Health insurance is strictly regulated by state and federal laws, requiring insurers to cover pre-existing conditions, essential health benefits, and preventive care.
Health sharing programs do not have these mandates and can set their own sharing guidelines, potentially excluding certain conditions or treatments.
Eligibility and Lifestyle Guidelines
Many health sharing organizations have eligibility criteria based on lifestyle choices.
For example, some require members to abstain from smoking, excessive alcohol use, or other high-risk behaviors. Traditional health insurance does not impose such requirements, covering individuals regardless of lifestyle.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Health insurance plans must cover pre-existing conditions under the ACA.
Health sharing plans may have waiting periods or limited sharing options for these conditions. If you have ongoing medical needs, understanding these limitations is crucial.
Enrollment and Availability
Traditional health insurance has open enrollment periods, limiting when individuals can sign up.
Health sharing plans allow members to enroll at any time, providing flexibility for those who need coverage outside standard insurance sign-up windows.
Top Health Sharing Options
Here are some of the best health share options in 2025:
- Prosper Health Plan – Best Overall Value
- Covers doctor visits, specialist care, preventive services, and emergency care.
- High sharing limits for hospital stays and surgical procedures.
- Additional wellness benefits focused on long-term health.
- HSA Secure – The Only HSA-Qualified Healthshare Plan
- Combines cost-sharing with a Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) plan.
- Allows contributions to a Health Savings Account (HSA).
- JHS Community – Lowest Monthly Cost
- Designed for budget-conscious individuals.
- Requires a higher out-of-pocket cost before cost-sharing kicks in.
- Ideal for those primarily seeking catastrophic coverage.
- DPC Direct – Best for Direct Primary Care (DPC) Members
- Complements DPC memberships by covering medical needs beyond typical DPC agreements.
- Provides cost-sharing for specialist care and hospital visits.
- Keeps monthly contributions low.
- netWell Healthshare – Best Comprehensive Plan
- Covers primary care, specialist visits, preventive care, and hospitalizations.
- Offers high sharing limits for major medical needs.
Enroll Anytime – No Open Enrollment Restrictions
Unlike traditional health insurance, health sharing plans have no enrollment periods. You can join a plan at any time and start saving immediately.
Find the Right Health Sharing Plan for You
Navigating healthcare options can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.
A personal benefits manager can help you compare plans, break down costs, and find the best fit for your needs. Whether you’re looking to lower your monthly expenses or need comprehensive coverage, there’s a health sharing plan that aligns with your goals.
Take control of your healthcare today—contact an HSA for America benefits expert and find the right health sharing plan for you.
Learn More: Unraveling Healthcare Sharing Ministries: Faith-Based and Secular HealthShare Options
Here are some additional articles on healthshare programs: How to Combine a DPC Membership with a Healthshare Plan | How Much Does Healthshare Save Compared to Health Insurance? | Health Sharing for Church Workers and Missionaries | Myths and Misconceptions about Health Sharing Plans
Here are some additional pages related to this article: Healthshare Plans | Healthshare Plans for Small Businesses
Compare Pricing on the Best HealthShare Plans Available
Frequently Asked Questions About Health Sharing
Is health sharing the same as health insurance?
No, health sharing is not health insurance. It is a voluntary program where members share medical expenses, while traditional insurance is a regulated product that guarantees coverage for specific services.
Do health sharing plans cover prescription drugs?
Some health sharing plans offer discounts on prescriptions, but they may not cover medications like traditional insurance. It’s important to check the details of each plan.
Can I use health sharing for preventive care?
Many health sharing plans include preventive care, but coverage varies. Some may fully share preventive services, while others only cover certain checkups or screenings.
Can I go to any doctor with a health sharing plan?
Most health sharing plans allow members to choose their own providers, but some may offer discounts or preferred rates for using certain networks.
Can I use health sharing if I’m self-employed?
Yes, health sharing plans are popular among self-employed individuals, freelancers, and small business owners looking for affordable healthcare alternatives.
Are maternity expenses covered under health sharing?
Some health sharing plans provide maternity coverage, but eligibility often depends on how long you have been a member before pregnancy.
Can health sharing be used alongside an HSA?
Only specific health sharing plans, like those that include a Minimum Essential Coverage (MEC) component, are compatible with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs).
