Why 1.5 Million Americans Choose Health Share Plans

At least 1.5 million Americans now rely on health share arrangements, opting for these alternatives as Congress debates health-care costs under the so-called Big Beautiful Bill. In these health shares, members pool their resources to share expenses, creating a unique system outside of traditional insurance. Although health shares are not insurance companies, their popularity has grown since the Affordable Care Act required the purchase of health coverage, prompting many to seek options that better align with their values and needs.

Health shares have existed in their current form since the 1980s, with more than 100 such groups now operating, most through small religious organizations. According to Katy Talento, executive director of the Alliance of Health Care Sharing Ministries, these health share groups continue to expand as people seek alternatives to mandated insurance. To qualify for an exemption from the Obamacare insurance mandate, a health share must be a federally recognized non-profit and submit to an independent annual audit, as required by federal regulations. The key criteria, however, are that members must have a shared set of ethical or religious beliefs and agree to share medical expenses according to those beliefs. This ethical or religious component draws many to health shares, providing a sense of community and shared values that is often missing from traditional insurance models.

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One major reason people consider health share arrangements is their desire to avoid subsidizing medical procedures they find objectionable on moral or religious grounds. As highlighted in a recent report, health shares typically will not share the cost of abortions, contraceptives, or fertility treatments, and joining often requires affirming a statement of faith. Some groups also require behavioral commitments, such as regularly attending church or abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and sex outside of marriage. These requirements reinforce the shared values that underpin the health share community.

For others, the appeal of health shares is more practical. Lauren Gajdek of Christian Healthcare Ministries points out that health share arrangements often allow more freedom in choosing a health care provider and usually cost less than traditional insurance. With monthly shares ranging from as low as $89 to over $800, depending on household size, age, location, and other factors, many find these options more affordable. Unlike insurance, health shares use terms like share instead of premium and personal responsibility or household portion instead of deductible. Members contribute a monthly share, and once expenses are approved, costs are voluntarily shared among members.

It’s important to note that health shares do not pay claims but share expenses among members on a voluntary basis. Those seeking low-cost insurance that meets all Obamacare requirements, or who are unwilling to embrace the community aspect—which can include praying for others—may not find health shares suitable. As Talento notes, participation is not for everyone. Still, many welcome the chance to support fellow members during serious health events, strengthening community ties and offering a sense of solidarity during times of need.

For Americans seeking an alternative to traditional insurance, health share arrangements provide a growing, values-based option. As the debate over health-care costs continues, more people are exploring the benefits and community offered by these unique programs.

–Alan Goforth | Metro Voice