Has anyone heard of, tried, or currently use Medi-Share?
While it essentially serves the same purpose as health insurance, they are very clear that it is NOT insurance. They call it, “Christian Healthcare Sharing.” I have spent some time digging into it and it looks very intriguing – it seems to offer most of the benefits of health insurance, but with lower premiums. They say that most families will save 30-50% in premiums each year.
A little about Medi-Share
Medi-Share was founded on the Biblical principle of God’s word found in Ephesians 4:28 which tells us to share with those in need.
“He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.” Ephesians 4:28
While their website answered a lot of my questions, I still called to get a more thorough understanding of how the program works…
Each month all the members pay their “share” (a fixed amount depending on the plan you select) into an account with their name on it to Christian Credit Union. The funds in all of those accounts are what pay the member’s medical bills each month. “Each plan essentially tallies medical claims each month, then divides by the number of members, officials say. After subtracting for overhead and administrative expenses, the rest goes to pay claims.”
The Medi-Share program is flexible with multiple choices of program levels, benefits, and of course out-of-pocket expense. You are given the option of choosing your own doctors and hospital, but there are discounts available for using networked professionals.
What I like about it
- With typical insurance, you pay a monthly premium, but have no idea where the money is going. With Medi-Share you are informed of who you are sharing with each month – you can then pray and send letters of support for those members.
- For most members there is a substantial cost savings over health insurance. Most families save $2000 a year on premiums.
- They have been operating for 16 years.
- The members vote and make the rules. So each year the members vote on what will and won’t be covered.
- Each member is covered up to $1 million per year or $5 million total.
Things to be aware of…
- You have to be accepted into the program. Not everyone is accepted.
- You must adhere to living a strict Biblical lifestyle in order to maintain your membership. Not doing so can get you expelled from the program and will likely nullify any claims you may have as well.
- “Medi-Share doesn’t share in all costs. All members vote on a yearly basis what costs to share. Routine physicals and health maintenance costs are currently not eligible for sharing.”
- Prior health conditions are not covered. If you sign up and have been taking medication for high blood pressure, it will not be covered. Only medical conditions that begin after joining are eligible.
Final thoughts
One of my biggest concerns was that I would be facing a huge medical bill and that the members would just decide not to “share” with me to cover it. After talking to the Medi-Share representative, it sounds like that isn’t much of a concern if you follow the rules. She explained that in the last 16 years every eligible need has been covered. But “eligible” is the key word here.
For example, she told me a story of a member who was in a bad car accident requiring lots of medical work, but since the person was intoxicated when they got into the accident, the expense was not covered by Medi-Share. On one hand I think you should give the guy a break, but at the same time it is the strict rules and policies that make the program work. The whole point is that by living a Biblical lifestyle you will be healthier, therefore have fewer medical expenses.
It seems like the program is perfect for healthy Christians who are committed to the Biblical lifestyle. If you already have many health conditions or are prone to lapses into substance abuse, it probably wouldn’t be worth it.
I would love to hear from some members – so if you have had experience with Medi-Share, please share about it in the comments…
Medi-Share reviewed by the Washington Post
Update 07-01-10: After writing this review, I have since joined Medi-Share and have been with them for 3 months now. They have been very good to deal with, but I have not had to file a claim yet, so I will add to the review after I file my first claim with them.
Update 01-03-12: I have now been using Medishare for a couple years and I do recommend it still for some people, but not all. It is definitely a lot cheaper than health insurance, but for those who visit the doctor regularly, it definitely is more work. So it comes down to a little more inconvenience, in exchange for cheaper health coverage.
Normally, when I go to the doctor I have to get a bill from the doctor and then mail it to medishare (Supposedly the in-network doctors will bill Medishare directly, but I have found that this isn’t always the case.) Next, the doctors office sends me an updated bill (after medishare discount or % they pay) then I have to pay the remainder of the balance to the doctor myself.
So it adds a couple more steps to the process, that are normally taken care of with “normal” health insurance. So if you really need to save money and have the energy to do a little more work, it is a great program for you. However if you are looking for something that is just as easy as regular health insurance, Medishare is probably not best suited for you.
{ 181 comments… read them below or add one }
Sounds just like Samaritan Ministries, of which my cousin is a long time member and avid proponent.
This may help when looking at Medi-Share..edi-share is indeed a unique program for providing assistance with medical care, but unlike health insurance programs this route uses blatant discrimination to prevent certain individuals from benefiting from its service. Mychristiancare.org specifically points out that only those engaging in sexual intercourse within a “Christian” marriage are allowed to join. This immediately eliminates gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from enrolling in Medi-share. The program also places limits on services it covers based upon religious beliefs and states specifically that abortions will not be covered under any circumstance.
To be clear, Medi-share is not an insurance program. Medi-share operates as a non-profit group and while members pay into a group fund each month, the money is never Medi-share’s money. Furthermore, Medi-share is not required to pay any bill, nor keep cash reserves on hand.REF:http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/how-does-medishare-work/
We have looked at this company a couple of times. We just never got a complete peace wtih going with them. Not really sure why. We totally agree with the mission statement and feel it is a body of people that would be great to partner with.
Thanks for the article.
We’ve been medi-share members since 1994 and have been very pleased. The premiums or shares are comparable to regular insurance but that’s where the similarity ends. With a very low deductible and no copay it’s wonderful. We love the concept of Christians helping one another and it really does work that way in reality.
Thanks for writing this review. I’ve seen some advertisements for them and was curious about it. You’ve given me enough information to get an understanding of what they are about.
Thanks for writing this review. I’ve seen some advertisements for them and was curious about it. You’ve given me enough information to get an understanding of what they are about.
P.S. – Sorry, forgot to tell you great post!
Ryan,
thanks for sharing – it is good to get some insight from someone who has used them…
The article, “Medi-Share: A Christian Health Insurance Alternative?” provides interesting and useful information. It certainly is worth more research. Thank you for sharing it.
I’ve been a member for over a year now and in that time have had an ulcer and a baby…I absolutely have faith in this company, its members and their goals to meet needs of other Christians. Every claim I’ve had has been paid and I love that I know where my premiums are going – also I feel that they are working with us to keep us healthy, not fighting us to try and avoid paying for our healthcare. They pray with us when we call in for asisstance and have always been wonderful. NOTE: For the past 20 years (my adult life) I’ve had typical Blue Cross, Aetna, Humana insurance – my last experience with one of them was terrible. We were paying almost $15,000 a year for insurance, still stuck with 20% of the bills, in addition to paying huge deductibles.
Medi-Share is indeed a leap of faith, as they are NOT insurance…I’ve had a great experience and given what is going on with our country right now wish Americans would continue to support each other MORE through the church and rely LESS on big government.
Thanks for the article, good assessment.
Hello, we are in the same boat as alot of others right now…self employed, paying our own insurance whith outrageous deductibles, and everything out of pocket…I am very interested in this Biblical plan of Christians helping Christians, but I do have a question that one of the ladies at my church brought up….are there tax implications when you do receive aid from the group? Do you pay tax on regular insurance proceedes? Do you pay tax on these “gifts”? How does this work? I need some direction on this…Thanks for any in put.
I am pretty ignorant of this type of plan. My wife and I are believers in Christ and have been looking at your plan.
I am looking at Medishare also and have the same questions as the person inquiring about whether payments to us are taxible? Are premium payments deductible on itemized deductions as they are with medical insurance? Thank you.
Call them. They can answer your tax-related questions.
Do you have any type of coverage for people over 65? Medicare will pay some, but how about a supplement or some type. I am in good health and usually go one time a year for my annual physical. Thanks for any info you could give me.
Hi Darrell! Medi-Share launched a program called Senior Assist for those 65+ back in July 2011. Here’s the link for you to check it out http://mychristiancare.org/Medi-Share/Public_Content/Senior_Assist.aspx.
does Medi-Share, etc., qualify under federal guidelines as an HSA-qualified “policy”?
I posted a comment awhile ago and would encourage anyone with questions to call Christian Care Medi-share directly or go to their website. No, you do not pay any additional taxes – it works like a coop and I’m not an accountant, but don’t think it’s considered aid or a gift. Sorry I can’t be of more help, also re. HSA qualified policy again – not sure. I do know that they clearly state that they are NOT insurance, so I doubt it. We have saved a TON of money and again, they are wonderful.
We have used Medishare in the past and were very happy with it. We are very healthy but self-employed and buying insurance on our own in the state of NY is soooo pricey. We recently tried a limited health insurance. They pay for office visits and preventive health care but my worry is that with a large claim we would go over the limit easily. We are going to go back to Medishare. We end up paying for our own preventive care and check-ups but I feel more comfortable knowing a large expense would be covered.
What about the current discussions in Washington? It seems that if (when) this passes, anyone without government approved insurance will pay a substantial penalty.
They state on their website that those who use Medishare are exempt from the government requirement. And I don’t think the requirement will be “government approved” insurance. You will just have to have it.
My brother-in-law and sister-in-law were covered by the Samaritan counterpart and said that it was as hard as working with any other insurance company. When she fell on some ice and broke her nose, it did not live up to their expectations. It’s a pity because it sounds like a good idea and less expensive. Of course it does work out for some and I think it worked out for them after a few headaches.
As for the guy in the car accident, I agree that he broke the terms. However the company also took a very Pauline approach, vs. a Christ-like one, and that saddens me.
I would like to comment on the poor gentleman in the car accident while intoxicated. As it may seem like a Pauline approach, your own auto insurance company won’t cover a claim if you are intoxicated. It is an exclusion on most auto policies. I used to be a claims examiner for AAA and it was always a sad day when we refused a claim because they were intoxicated. In addition to that, all the medical vehicles and emergency vehicles aren’t covered either. There are heavy consequenes for driving under the influence and I appreciate and agree with everyone of them.
With no consequences, there is no change. Even Christ gave consequences for our actions.
MY RESPONSE:
When we say, “Even Christ gave consequences for our actions” would we be referring, for example, to the consequence of everyone turning and walking away from the woman caught in adultry? Was it not starting with the oldest till none were left to make an accusation or judgement or administer the consequence perscribed by law? None left, that is, but God Himself? Those that claimed to know God appeared on their high religious horses, but all fell off once faced with the consequence of God Himself standing in their midst. In the face of God, they were just as guilty, since real justification required sinless perfection. It’s amazing that the only One Who did not desire judgement (or consequences) was the only One Who had no stain of sin of His Own. Those with stains, in the name of “God”, clamored for judgement. However, under direct orders from God His Father, the only One Who refused to judge was the only One Who could not be judged, having never done a wrong. Sinless Perfection faced sinfulness and withheld judgement. Do I really know Him? Am I really like Him? I too have been utterly bogus, with stone in hand, acting for “God” like those who were so disappointed that God was not on their side in their desire for judgement. Their image of god was on their side, but God wasn’t. I don’t know about you guys, but I think I need to go and learn what this really means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice. ‘For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” I pray I will know this judge Who took my Judgement and not only mine but the judgement measured out for the whole world. He took it in full. Not in part. None is left for me to exercise against myself or another. I pray that this Spirit of Jesus will shine more and more brightly in and through the church, out to the world, so that the world will find the church to be a place of refuge and safety from judgements toward them as sinners, rather than a place of rejection because of their sins. Jesus is the only refuge there is for sinners and His arms for them are open wide. The church is His arms. If the church’s arms are folded in judgement I submit to you that that is not the Church, but the spirit of religion that will have to walk off, stones in hand, should God come down to face their facade of a church. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them.” If God does not count men’s sins against them, should I, at all, be counting? Religion counts sins. It is the business of religion. Apparently, God is not in the business of religion.
I know the senario sounds harsh but some people just need consequences for them to turn away from addiction to alcohol. I don’t believe we should turn our backs on them and refuse fellowship except after much prayer but they must feel the consequences of putting themselves and others lives at risk.
Gary, this is not about judging or even God’s judgment. This is about insurance coverage and financial concerns. Rather than pay for everyone’s choices which leads to medical expenses that could have been avoided and therefore raising everyone’s premiums, I’d rather pay for those who avoid such choices, which would mean much lower premiums–which is the whole point.
What about those who have pre existing conditions. It seems wrong to turn them away. What would Jesus Do?
Medi-Share was founded based on the biblical principles of sharing each other’s burdens, which, in terms of healthcare, are medical bills. In a perfect world, the burdens of all Christians would be light. But in reality, the cost of healthcare is very expensive. If members were to share in every burden of every member, the share amounts would be extremely costly. Therefore, we have let Medi-Share members have a say in what kinds of bills they would like to share. As you can imagine, Medi-Share members have decided to strike a balance between sharing as many needs as possible while still keeping the share amounts affordable. Thus, some limitations are placed on certain conditions and the affected members are notified before joining Medi-Share so they are aware upfront of certain conditions that will not be shared. By doing this, we are able to keep the share amounts reasonable, while still offering all members help for unexpected burdens they may face.
I do not think Medishare is about us judging each other concerning whether or not their claim is worthy; we are entering a contract, also known as a covenent. We are agreeing with other families that we will be responsible in our actions and life style choices; not take risks. This type of mutual responsibility is the only way a program like this could continue to be successful. Maybe that does exclude a few people or a few claims…but at least those people who are excluded made that choice all by themselves. Concerning the lengthy dissertation about the church being a place that all sinners feel welcome… The church is exactly that, we all fall short, but does that mean we are to continue to accept the same, unchanging, wrong choices without confession or improvement…or consequences? Myself as an example, 10 years I prayed for a change in my own behavior that was not honoring to my family or God. 10 years I turned to God, and to the mirror. 10 years later…the change is evident. God does work. Our covenant with Him is simple…faith in Christ as our Savior. Nothing else is required for salvation. See, we are ALL condemned…and then there are those, who know and are know by Jesus, that will be judged…for our choices. This judgement is not condemnation (hell or heaven)… It is based on the choices we made in our daily walk that honored Christ.
That is why you must agree to live in a Christian manner. So the rest of us don’t have to pay for people uncommitted to the plan. Otherwise, you may as well go buy insurance from the gov’t! Once you start paying for irresponsible behavior, you drive up costs and the plan is corrupted. If you can’t live by the rules, please don’t join.
Very true. It won’t be affordable unless there is responsibility.
Forgot to add on the last comment that the Samaritan Ministries program wasn’t their choice but my BIL’s employer (a Christian highschool) did not carry a regular insurance program and would only give its employees membership in Samaritan Ministries. After several disappointments, my BIL talked the school into giving him the monthly sum they were putting towards Samaritan Ministries so that he could use it to put toward regular health insurance they decided to purchase privately.
i too would like to know if ineed to get medicare or if i pay the premium for this if it would cover. have no health problems. how do i get an answer.
Hi Ann. I’m not sure if I understand your question entirely, but the only members who need to be on medicare are those involved in Senior Assist for those over 65+. If you would like to ask a more direct question, feel free to call one of our representatives at 1-800-772-5623.
There are definitely some opposing views on the subject. I have more research to do before I can make a good decision for my family.
I do appreciate everyone that has direct experience sharing that experience.
We have Medi-Share, and have had it for about 6 years. I have delivered two children with them and had a two week hospital stay with a blood illness. In the past I have been happy with them though dealing with a “share” has been difficult and much like dealing with any health insurance company. I have to call in with many of the shares and get more information. The two week hospital stay was near $70,000 and took almost two years for Medi-Share to pay. In this time we got several collection notices from the hospitals and ambulance company. Now I am expecting again and Medi-Share wants me to apply for Medicaid. We have an issue with applying for government assistance. We are now looking into other health “insurance” options.
I find it very interesting that the basis for this health plan is in regards to helping those in need, Ephesians 4:28. This concept of community is also found in the book of Acts and the first Christian church, where no one in “the church”, i.e. followers in Christ had no any lack because those with surplus shared. So why are pre-existing conditions criteria for rejection. No sane person asks to be afflicted with a physical condition, and people with pre-existing conditions certainly have need, but they also have things they can share. If you’re going to be bibilically based then help those in need, The only exclusions I see in scripture is when someone is living a sinful life. I feel this is hypocritical, because the real deciding factor, as with everything in western christianity seems to be just like the secular world, what’s the bottom line i.e. how does it affect our pocket books. I’m sorry to say this but this is really only partially biblically based. It’s so easy to justify and reason things out when it come to money.Other than this I think the idea is a place to start. Maybe it’s why the comment above where the author did not feel a peace about signing up. (some call that discernment)
The way I understand it while Medi-share may not cover a pre-exisiting condition, if you have a medical need that is not coverd and need help, they will make it known to the Medi-share members and they can donate money to help you. They facilitate a way for you to be helped. They have to have some rules about acceptance, or the premiums could not be so low. If you need help, they will try to find other members who are willing to give. I have already gotten names in the mail for maternity overages and non-covered services for people who need extra help. This is a great thing. It helps God’s people and does not line the pockets of big insurance. It just has strict rules, as does following Christ.
Regardless of the rationale of the program, paying for healthcare and medical costs is a numbers game; a mathematical equation.
There are basic rules in math like: 1 + 1 = 2. I am not being facetious. I am just saying that making an exception to this rule results in a different set of circumstances.
The point is, pre-existing conditons and the intoxicated driver story are completely rational in my opinion. As someone noted earlier, they do publish your need to the entire membership so there is still a chance you can get help.
my husband and I have been on this program since 2004, and we have been happy with them for the most part, other than that the premiums keep going up (now we pay $500/mo for both of us), and the claim process is really no easier than most insurance companies
Here’s a question: if you have insurance, the insurance company negotiates much cheaper rates from doctors and hospitals; if you do NOT have insurance, you will pay very high “retail” rates that no insurer pays (in some cases insurers’ rates are 10% of the retail ones). So, what price do these medi-share plans pay? Is everyone paying the retail rate, or are they negotiating cheaper prices from the providers? And doesn’t that leave the consumer paying much higher rates on the things that aren’t covered (such as the regular checkups, or anything for a pre-existing condition)?
Are you kidding??? Never known a healthcare provider who didn’t give some kind of a ‘discount’ to anyone paying cash!
Medi-Share members recieve discounts by using our Preferred Provider Organization. At times, members recieve discounts for unshareable services too because of the PPO. If you have anymore questions, feel free to call one of our representatives at (800)772-5623.
Many providers give discounts for cash. I had a surgery last year and the hospital discounted my surgery 50% and the physicians’ bills 35%. We had to pay upfront because we didn’t have “insurance.” It’s actually amazing to think we received such a large discount — it really drives home how inflated the costs are when a hospital will cut prices by 50%. We use Samaritan Ministries and have had the best experiences. Our primary care physician also discounts our office visits by 50% by paying at the time of service. The use of third party payers (insurance companies) is a major factor in high medical costs. Being the bargain hunter I am, I was so pleased with the surgery discounts that added up to thousands of dollars. The only thing better would have been if I had had my Perk Street Debit card and had been able to earn 2% cash back. (BTW: my surgery was at an esteemed University hospital and I received excellent care.)
I dont have medical insurance now but have just applied with Medi share. Since I live a Biblical life and agree to all the terms I am very excited about joining other Christisans supporting each others medical needs. I will say that when I’ve had to go to the doctor for a bad cold or sinus infection I told them I wont pay the retail rate but want to pay the Blue Cross rate. Both times they agreed. Life is a negotiation.
Hello, you wrote:
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Medi-Share was founded on the Biblical principle of God’s word found in Ephesians 4:28 which tells us to share with those in need.
“He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.” Ephesians 4:28
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This is only partially true. I spoke with a representative just the other day. Basically, this plan ONLY works if you already have the money to put into it. In other words, you can already afford some kind of insurance. If you are truly needy, as in our situation with my husband bouncing between unemployment and contracts, it does not help. We cannot afford the monthly share. So we are just stuck. So, no…the idea of it taking care of the needy is only partially true.
Also, one thing to find out before you join is what do they do if you lose your job and suddenly can no longer make the payments? Do they drop you?
What about this verse:
Act 2:45 and they began selling their property and possessions and were sharing them with all, as anyone might have need.
What about those needy?
One of the commenters above wrote that they were told to sign up for Medicaid. Having had to go the “government” route in the past, I have to say that this is appalling to me. Most people who recommend that route do NOT understand what they are really saying. Medicaid has very stringent rules about who qualifies. You are not allowed to better yourself.
I know of situations where people had to lie to keep their coverage. Recommending someone go on Medicaid instead of the body of Yeshua helping them is, in my estimation, akin to telling them to chuck their integrity.
You also wrote:
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For most members there is a substantial cost savings over health insurance. Most families save $2000 a year on premiums.
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Premiums are NOT the only cost involved. What about the fact that there are much higher deductibles than most insurance plans? Also, what about the fact that there are a lot of things that a regular insurance will cover that Medi-Share does not…things that have to come out of pocket. When you talk about savings you have to make sure you are comparing apples to apples and consider ALL the differences…including things you now have to pay for that you did not previously.
You also mention the voting process regarding what is covered. On the one hand, you do have a say as a member. On the other hand, all the other members could override you. Every year your coverage could change. One thing I do not know is this…what if you are currently being treated for something that is covered and ongoing and they decide to stop covering it. Do your treatments stop being paid? This is something you need to make sure you find out!
I realize that each of us have varying economical resources. However, the bottom line is this….
Pay for the little things (physicals, sore throat, etc) out of your own pocket and pay premiums on a high deductible policy to cover the catastrophic things. Same holds true with this.
If you do not have money for either, there are several resources available (medicaid, get rid of cable tv and iphones and put that money towards health care, friends, family, local church you actually belong too).
I am looking into Medi Share. I am a healthy Christian woman with a daughter. That being said ; I do have to have blood work done once a year for a pituary cyst I had in 2004. Would lab work be covered in this circumstance?
Our experience with Medi-share (members for over 2 years) is basically the same as Marisa’s above. They have paid my bills, and that is the positive part. The negative is as follows–We did business with Medi-share (and it is business), and we got to know several of our friendly neighborhood collection agencies. We have been sent to 4 different collection agencies in the past 12 months. In every case, the situation was resolved before it negatively affected my credit.
I was told several times that the reason a bill had not been paid was due to the fact that they were not writing checks for invoices that recent (over 8 months old)! I think people should know this before they sign up, and I have told Medi-share this on several occasions.
I will say, though, that as I was willing to fight and make sure that the bill got paid, Medi-share came through every time. Just be prepared to be on the phone A LOT.
Medi-share has been anything but on time when it came to their paying our health providers, most notably with large amounts. It seems they fare better with smaller amounts and more routine visits.
I have also found that health providers become frustrated with this service, as they fail to understand why it seems so difficult to get their money from this organization. As a Christian concerned about testimony, this has been bothersome to me.
thank you this info has helped me i have a friend who has no insurance but is in need of two different surgeries to repair damage from work i have coverage but dont always do as i am told because there are sometimes remedies less costly traditional medicine has faults too
What bothers me most about this – and you have to understand, I am currently in the military, and have been a military praise and worship leader for a LONG time – is the fact that this company touts themselves as helping the needy and sharing medical costs the way God intended it.
But, getting out of the military after being covered with Tricare for twelve years – wife has had a tumor removed – son has vision problems – daughter has asthma, Medishare won’t cover anything associated with that.
WHAT?!? So, not only does the secular world not want to cover my family’s pre-existing conditions… which is a NEED… AND we can afford the best plan Medishare’s got… but this “christian” company won’t either.
Doesn’t seem like it’s really sharing in medical costs “the way God intended.”
Now, the people sure are friendly, but coming from serving the nation so this company COULD continue to operate (I dare it to try operating in Iran), not even I could be covered with this christian organization.
What happened to Yeshua’s way? Meeting the needy?
Seems like it’s false advertising to me.
And false advertising is not godly.
If it’s not godly, then there’s only one other alternative.
I can pretend to be a christian all day long, but if the inside of my house isn’t clean, it’s only a facade.
Someone’s making some good money off of this and it infuriates me. People and Organizations claiming to be christian yet are not help to deteriorate the world’s ability to come to the Father.
So, in my humble opinion, and I AM a christian, this organization at its roots really isn’t that good of a thing. At least, it’s no better than it’s worldly sisters. Which means it’s not truly a “christian” organization.
But, that’s just my frustration coming out. If I’m wrong, say I’m wrong.
I just hate it when people use God’s name to make themselves a fortune.
And if I’m wrong, I’ll gladly repent.
Otherwise, please, someone, HELP ME FIND INSURANCE FOR MY FAMILY! We’re exhausted and it seems there is no help here on this earth.
Jay,
You have exposed this money making racket that has wrapped itself in the biblical teachings of Jesus, for what it is….a scam. Hopefully the corporate republicans won’t do away with the ACA, and you family will get the health care that Jesus would want.
Thanks, Sidney, for speaking for me! Good job! I love it when people are willing to jump into subjects they know nothing about and pound their chests and vilify anyone within earshot. Nastiness is its own reward , you know! And it’s always a special touch to wrap it all up in a phony Christian wrapper.
Jay,
Your help comes from the Lord Himself. He doesn’t need insurance to provide for our medical costs. Trust in Him.
Father, I ask that you would provide abundantly for the needs of Jay and His family. You said that you hear the cry of the needy. I know that you hear his cry and the cry of many others who are in need. Come to their aid. Lord do not let them be put to shame. The bear your name. Do not let the world say, “Where is their God?” Father, pour out your mercy on them. Heal bodies that need healing. Heal hearts. Heal minds. Give them strength and grace to patiently wait on your provision. We put our hope in you. Amen.
Hi Guys, Thank you Bob for your great article, I am very excited to see members refer others and have great faith in this program. I am a representative at Medi-share, also I am a Medi-share member have been for about 10 months. I am very confident there is nothing better out there. I Invite you to call me to learn about it I will answer any questions you have, and explain the program. 1-800-772-5623 x2206
P.S. Please let me know Bob sent you thank you.
My husband and I are currently researching different insurance companies. It was through a friend of the family that we learned about Medi-Share. Considering we were already researching insurance, we had a lot of questions that our new friend Alan was happy to answer for us. We figured we would share our questions and the answers we got with all of you.
-Does this program cover prescriptions and medicines?
A: No. Unfortunately they don’t. However they do encourage a supplemental insurance plan that covers what they don’t, and with the cheapness of Medi-share, you can usually afford the supplemental insurance too.
-What qualifies as an “office visit”?
A: An office visit is anytime you go see your doctor or a specialist.
-Is this a non-denominational organization?
A: Yes.
-What is the Manna Christian Disability Sharing thing?
A: It is a similar organization that assists Disabled people.
-Are there fees for signing up?
A: Yes. There is a one time, non-refundable $50 fee for processing your application. There is also a one time $125 membership fee paid on the first month. And then there is a final fee of $25 for the processing of the Health Incentive application.
-Are things like glasses and dental work covered?
A: No. Optical and Dental are not included. However, Medi-Share will cover these things if they have something to do with a bigger illness or incident, like if you get in a car accident and need dental surgery. See answer 1.
-How do taxes work with this program?
A: All payments are considered gifts, and you don’t have to pay taxes on them. The money doesn’t ever touch your hands so it’s never yours to be taxed.
-Are y’all HSA qualified?
A: No because they aren’t an insurance company.
-Why are you exempt from the Health Care Bill, and can you guarantee that you won’t be exempt later?
A: They can’t guarantee that they won’t be exempt later; however, in the bill itself that President Obama passed, it states that they exempt people participating in Health Care Sharing Ministries. Go to this link –> http://mychristiancare.org/exemption.aspx <– to read about it.
-If you lose your job and can't pay your monthly portion, are you dropped?
A: Not necessarily. Simply call and talk to someone about rearranging your payment plans. They only do a 5% late fee and are very willing to work with you.
-We heard that sometimes it takes a long time for the payments to make it to the hospitals, etc., and we heard that some people even had to deal with collection agencies. Why is this?
A: Especially for larger bills, they go through everything with a fine tooth comb. They try to work out discounts and everything before they pay. Sometimes this takes time. However, they try very hard to get everything done as soon as possible.
-Do you cover pre-existing illnesses like cancer? Why or Why not?
A: It depends. There are many different kinds of cancers, and they have to know what kind of cancer you have to know how much your treatments will be. Usually there is just a longer waiting period for things like this, but just because you have cancer or some other pre-existing illness does not mean you are automatically not qualified.
Every other question we had before these were answered by the little package they sent us. Also our Medi-Share representative, Alan, has been more than helpful and is always eager to answer every question we have. You can reach Alan at 1 (800) 772-5623 ext. 2298. He's absolutely amazing.
Medishare seems like a good Godly organization, and in fact it may be… However, I know of a minister who tried to get on it and was denied, for a preexisting disorder, diabetes, which they don’t cover anyways… A MINISTER… Also, I know of a 21 year old college student who is active in his campus Christian organizations whom was denied because he has an electrical disorder in his heart, not terminal, doctor said will not limit his life in any way, shape, or form… Except in the way of getting health insurance from a Christian organization… True Christians would never turn their back on a young man in need.
I applied a few days ago. I had planned on reading up on the company before I applied, but it just slipped my mind. I don’t like the slow pay stories here from other members. Even if they did come through. We worked hard to get out of debt which we now are. My business is doing great, and I really don’t want to have any collection calls. That part of our lives is over. BCBS is $90 more per month, but we will get the tax breaks of the HSA which will negate that extra premium. Preventative is also covered. I’ll probably be canceling my application.
Thanks for all of your feedback.
I just wanted to address one issue raised on this site. Medishare is not a ministry of a Church. It is a business that is inspired by and seeks to implement Christian principles. Medishare should not cover emergency needs that it cannot afford or force giving to meet any and all “christians” who want to join with “any” and “all” preexisting concerns. Such folks do need help. That is where the Church should step in. Medishare is not a Church. Moreover, Medishare is not hurting these people whom they reject. Such people would be no better off if Medishare didn’t exist?! I’m sure Medishare’s workers would love to cover everyone and everything, but they can’t. Bankruptcy and the abandonment of their members is not a better testimony. So, those of you who are not allowed in because of bad situations, that is a tragedy. I’m so sorry that you face that. But, please don’t demand that everyone else pay for it or hide behind Jesus’ words to suggest that members should be forced to pay for your needs. Again, charity is the work of the Church, Medishare is not the Church or a Church. They don’t preach, offer sacraments or do church discipline. They are a business that tries to be Christian in the way they conduct themselves.
Very well stated Matthew! Although I wouldn’t join Medishare for the higher risk it presents, you are so right in keeping us all in check. Being a Christian, principally-based company does not require that they become responsible for all of us like the Body of Christ should. If the Body of Christ actually did what it was intended to do, we wouldn’t need Medishare to begin with. 90% of the money needed to help those in the Body of Christ is actually available. the problem is it stays in the pockets of the congregation as the plate passes by. We live in a fallen world folks, and Medishare is at least doing something. Don’t hold Medishare responsible for your life’s woes. The comments concerning how unChristian it is for Medishare not to cover everything is unwarranted. All business’, Christian or otherwise have the right to determine what services they can or can not cover/perform. Would you rather they go completly bankrupt and not be able help anyone? I appauled their desire to help, and I hope they are an honest organization. You may not agree with what they cover or don’t cover because it doesn’t help you, but isn’t that almost like wanting another welfare system which we already see doesn’t work, has cost this country billions of dollars, which could have been used for better purposes and people take advantage of.
Just some thoughts.
My wife and I have been members of Medi-Share for about 15 years and are in our early 60s. Medi-Share has always been professional and lived up to their rules. We have had one major operation, shoulder injuries, etc. They have paid these, and we are very satisfied and believe in the program.
On a claim, you cover the deductible of your claim each year, then cost sharing covers up to a certain level (which covers Medi-Share’s deductible on a major health insurance policy they hold), then costs above that are covered by the major insurance policy. The things that Medi-Share will cover matches the things that the major health insurance policy covers. Medi-Share is not sitting around thinking, “Shall we cover this or not?” You can be assured, just like with an insurance health policy, that what is written in the terms will be covered.
Medi-Share is now trying to encourage older subscribers to give up their agreement with them, and this includes somewhat higher rates. Medi-Share seems quite confident that older folks will be happy to drop this monthly expense and rely on Medicare and Medicade, and any bridging policy they may purchase. This has shown that, like an insurance company (which they are not), they do not value the length of time a person has been in the program; and that their decisions about age are more monetarily made than first meets the eye. They began as a group of ministers, and I suspect that the thought at the time may have been to help them all the way through life, but Medi-Share has unfortunately lost that vision.
My wife and I paid under $300 about four years ago. Now we are paying about $500 a month. I believe this reflects what is happening in the three major mutual help groups as they are affected by the economy. Medi-Share is also attempting to open the door a little and be less exclusive on membership it receives. This inevitably increases participant’s costs.
If I understand your comments correctly, Medi Share has an insurance policy that backs it up. This is an “aha” moment for me. We are applying with a high deductible and are only concerned with major medical but was wondering how they could manage with really expensive treatments. And it’s helpful to understand that like insurance, it has to deal with the fact that the older we get, the more medical attention we are likely to need. It also seems likely that most of the applicants will be older like ourselves. jpl
Hi Jon,
I work for Medi-Share so I thought I could clear some of this up. We do not have an insurance policy that we use. We used to, which is why long-time member John mentioned it. However we are now completely member-to-member sharing and have shared over $550 million over 18 years.
As for dealing with older members who need more medical attention, as you brought up, we now have a program we launched this year called Senior Assist for people 65+.
There’s more info on this on our website (http://mychristiancare.org/guidelines.aspx) but I encourage you to speak with someone on the phone if you have any more questions. 1-800-772-5623
My wife (59) desires to enroll, but I see many Con’s. Her current policy pays 100% after the deductible – no pre-existing clause at all. She had minor colon surgery almost 4 years ago and just had a clean bill of health on a check-up colonoscopy. She has maintenace dosages of Boniva for prevention of bone loss and just had a density test. No problem. However, will these constitute treatments, thus starting a new 3 year period on each ????? What about other medications given as preventative treatments. Personally I don’t trust this program, and would be indebted to any readers who would enlighten me as to the negatives. E-mail me at breadmnjag@aol.com please.
Seems like it would be difficult for them to determine if you are living a “Biblical Lifestyle”
With that said it seems like a lot of people who are directly involved with Medi-Share like it. This is the first I have heard of it.
Matthew, I appreciate your comment, however, I believe you’re misguided. Medi-Share IS claiming to be a CHRISTIAN business with CHRISTIAN members and leaders. Yes, it IS the church’s responsibility to be charitable. The “church” is not a building, it’s the body of Christ, which are fellow Christians. Therefore, Medi-Share IS part of the church.
I also didn’t feel as if the previous comments “blamed” Medi-Share for any of their problems. Only that the company itself is not living up to the main verse they say they hold so dear. It’s not fair to say that the previous comments feel Medi-Share is to blame.
If the program has worked for you, and others, AWESOME and PRAISE GOD! And if anyone has not been able to be accepted, or has reservations, I pray your individual situation can be resolved. Shalom,
AJ
My husband informed me last month that Medishare is approved/acceptable as qualifying as insurance under Obama’s healthcare plan. We currently are not insured, but I know a few families in our church who have used them for years and are very happy with them. We hope to join them soon.
Pat
Hello, have you joined medi-share? Are you pleased?
Thanks for your time!
My family (wife + 3 children) for 2 years. I have the $1,000 minimum
“per incident” and it’s auto-deducted from my credit card each month.
I retired in 2001 and after COBRA ran out 18 months later I was with
Assurant health (via State Farm).
I started with Premiums at around 800 a month and
over the next years they increased to almost 1,400 a month in spite of
my raising my limits (deductibles) to the highest limits.
We served with a ministry in S. Korea in 2007. The wife of another
U.S. couple serving there was diagnosed with breast cancer. After
much research, they had the surgery, chemo, and reconstruction
all in S. Korea (a major city 1 hr. south of Seoul). This family
had Medi-Share and the expense was enormous as you can imagine.
Medi-Share paid all eligible expenses and to my knowledge (we know
the family very well) nothing was denied. All receipts had
to be maintained of course and I believe it took so time to get
fully reimbursed (since Medi-Share had no service provider in S. Korea,
the family self funded the surgery, etc.. and then applied for reimbursement).
So with that reference, we went with Medi-Share. When we joined
I was overweight and they put me on a special program for exercise and
weight reduction with weekly calls with a health coach. This was an
addl. $75 per month. This coach provided encouragement, weekly
education about various health topics, accountability,
and monitored my progress. I believe the real incentive was that
at some point I could lose eligibility if I didn’t show progress.
It took me over 1 year but I met their
requirements (I was 40lbs over) and “graduated” from the program.
Many families in our community (San Antonio) use Samaritans. I spoke with
many of these families. It is similar and less expensive. But it doesn’t have
all the coverages and it’s limits are more restrictive. But again, I recall it
was much less (maybe by 1/2 ?) of Medi-Share. Also, you had to do all
your own paperwork. Everything was self-pay and reimbursements came
directly from other members – which required more record keeping and
follow up that I desired. Since I cut my Assurant Health premiums by
2/3′s I was really happy to not have the paperwork hassles and chose
medi-share.
I have not had any claims over my “per incident” (not cumulative annual,
but “per incident (injury/illness – make sure you understand this)). But
per the above comments, they are very professional and their customer
support has been excellent. You get assigned an “advocate” to that
you go to for everything (you need to pre-qualify all / any major
planned surgeries).
Also – most physician take their “insurance” so their is no payment at time of visit. They have a large provider network and every existing Dr. I use was covered (and the Drs. for my wife and children).
All in all, I am very pleased so far with Medi-Share and highly recommend this health care sharing organization.
Alan
p.s. to the above comment that they didn’t “trust” this organization. Their
wife had insurance with no-prexisting, etc.. Then why switch? Many
company plans FORCE the insurance company to waive pre-existing but
most self-insurance plans do have pre-existing clauses.
And I agree frankly with the fact that the claimant who was drunk didn’t
get reimbursed. Like getting drunk and jumping off a roof into a
swimming pool – breaking your neck – then suing the pool company, home owner, etc.. AND WINNING!! With standard insurance that comes right back to policy holders!!
And to the comment about “how do they know?”. They don’t. God
does, and if you lie to them it will catch up with you when you
file your claim and get denied!
Alan and everyone else,
“I have not had any claims over my “per incident”
I enjoyed Medi-share as well until I went over the “per incident” amount. Like I said, they came through, but after months of non-payment to providers, I would receive notices from collection agencies (4 times for separate providers). For full disclosure, I have been off of Medi-share for almost a year. But when I was with them, their payments were delayed several months from the date of treatment. I would ask them about this specifically before you sign up. Ask them how long payment to providers will take from the time of treatment. Trust me, your providers will care, and it’s your head on the chopping block, not Medi-share’s.
If I were with Medi-share again, I would be more proactive connecting the provider with Medi-share in the immediate months after treatment, to keep the the bills out of collections. Notifying Medi-share and even immediately sending them copies of the bills didn’t help.
I have looked into both companies and, honestly, I can’t justify using them. I understand that they wish for their share holders to live a Christian life but to deny someone coverage when they had a moment of weakness IMHO is not christ-like at all. We are to forgive all wrongdoing of our fellow man and to stiff someone on a bill is not forgiveness. Jesus did not say to love each other, only if they do what you tell them to, or to give your brother your 2nd shirt only if he agrees with you.
Good luck on your search.
Bob, thank you for posting this it was very helpful. It has convinced me that Medi-share is not for me as I am in an HSA and do not want to give that up. Many of you seem to take issue with pre-existing and the conditional coverage. I would just like to point out that God’s love, mercy and forgiveness are conditional. The Bible does NOT teach un-conditional love, only man does that. The word “if” is a condition and “sin” is a pre-existing condition. Medi-share is well within the Biblical principle.
I just heard about this plan online today. I looked at their site. I think this type of sharing system sounds great. The only time I have ever had health insurance that cost less than theirs with no deductible and good coverage was under a ‘group plan’ offered by my former employer. COBRA costs are outrageous and buying individual health insurance is not going to work since the premiums, deductibles, co-pay, etc. are way beyond what this Medishare offers. The plus of this plan seems to be the lifestyle exclusions where a person living a pagan life will not receive the benefits of the others labors (i.e. their premium monies) unlike general health insurance. Also, the government cannot mandate coverage for lifestyle choices like abortion, sexual activity, sexual orientation, etc. since it is not insurance but a cost sharing plan based on democratic voting by existing members. I also like its non-profit status. The typical executives at health insurance companies make millions while people die for no reason. That system is satanic. This system of medishare for Christians is not satanic, but seems rather inline with the teachings of Christ through Himself and His apostles. I will look into this system one day.
I don’t know anything about this program other than what I read here. I hope this business is more legit than not. But please, lets not forget the external realities that are outside of this program’s control. These are just a few:
-Physical world with limited resources.
-Monetary system that creates even more scarcity through price inflation and debt.
-Prices for Medical treatment is extremely overinflated thanks to the existence of insurance companies.
In other words, from an unconditional Christian love point of view, this business was a failure before it even started because it exists in a limited physical world and monetary world.
When we think Christian, we think unconditional love, therefore unconditional help and so forth. But again, we live in a physical world and if you expect this from any organization including your favorite church, you will be disappointed.
Please put emotion aside, and think rational, I know it is hard to do when ill or having a loved one who is ill. It is easy to fault others for their lack of help when you are desperate with an illness. However, lets not forget this program is not God, and cannot fix all as we expect God to do.
Having worked in the medical field for many years I would suggest that you keep in mind the fact that much (I would suggest most) of the controlling environment in medicine is atheistic/agnostic and openly sarcastic of Christianity. It is very big business and money absolutely rules. Use it prayerfully and only if you have no other hope. The vast majority of health problems are due to deep-seated guilt problems working their way to the surface. A Christian is one with absolutely no guilt, and thus, far less likely to be plagued with sickness. I am not saying no sicknesses. But the medical community has to deal with all people. The overwhelming costs and problems facing us are a symptom of the spiritual condition of our land.
Simply put… get the mission of the company. Its mainly for xtians to live a healthy life. I don’t want to put my money there and they r using it to treat preexistin conditions for others and when its my turn they r out of money. Its business people. Am sorry bad things happen but that’s just ow business works. They calculated their risk n tot dat for us to keep d busines on, we need not to cover preexisitin sickness. U n I know its not fair. U r only complainin cuz u want others to pay for ur sickness. (Forgive my tone). No matter ow much bil gate has n no matter ow much he gives to charity. He cannot give but less than ten percent cuz that way he can keep microsoft alive. Its plain common sense.
My husband and I used medishare for many years, over 10, I think. When he “aged out” and went on Medicare, my rates went thru the roof. They consider me a “single woman” and I pay more than what married couples pay for coverage. To cover two adults for less than what I pay just for myself infuriates me and I have a hard time believing that there is statistical data to back up their position. I have asked often for actuarial information to support their position and have never been able to get an answer. It makes me very uncomfortable with them. By the way, I have been blessed with excellent health and have cost them very little. I do not recommend them to my friends or fellow church members.
Did you hear about their Senior Assist program? Just started this month: http://mychristiancare.org/Medi-Share/Public_Content/Senior_Assist.aspx
This sounds interesting. Too bad in found out after open enrollment. For those of you upset about your high premiums…try family of four…$475 per month…$3000 deductible. IT COULD BE WORSE!!!
That’s still less than we pay. $900/mo to cover me and 2 kids – husband is covered by company. We have a deductible after $500 covered expenses. – so $11,000/year.
I didn’t read everyone’s posts to find out if this is already discussed. We had an HSA, but the costs even for that went through the ROOF! So, we switched to Medi-share. When I called the HSA to see what we need to do with the money in that account, she seemed to think that it could be used with any High Deductible Health Plan. My question is…is a sharing program like Medi-Share considered, by the governing rules of the HSA, to be a HDHP?
To answer your question Sarah, you can use the money in your HSA to pay any of your eligible health expenses regardless of your current insurance plan. The IRS publishes a list of qualified health expenses (just do a search).
You cannot contribute to your plan now since you don’t have a HDHP. Medi-share plans do not qualify. For more info, Google “HSA road rules 2011″.
Hi there
) I saw this and wanted to write a quick review. We have been with Medi-share for a couple years now and I love the whole concept, and most importantly that it is based on biblical principles and really wish I could give a good review and am sad that I cannot.
The original article/review on Medi-share is pretty accurate. We are that healthy Christian family who live according to biblical principles, as noted in the article. In fact, we have 3 children, we don’t ever have to go to the doctor except for something serious and for routine physicals (which are not covered). Other than that, we strive to be healthy and are on no pharmaceuticals of any kinds and haven’t needed to go to the doctor in years apart for stitches for a toddler (well before we were with Medi-share.) We have paid of monthly sharing faithfully on time for years, and never had an issue worthy of going to a doctor. We invest a lot into natural health and it has blessed us as we are really healthy.
Not to boast (all glory to God
) – but just to give some background to confirm that we are committed to godly lifestyle … we love the Lord with all hearts mind soul strength and lead a bible study and are planting a church, so we are very committed to truth in all regards.
When we joined with medi-share, it was in April a couple years ago. We were previously with a different secular insurance company and we wanted to go with a Christ-Centered one. We wanted to be wise and wait until well after my son was born to make sure there were no medical needs/issues as a result of the birth (in January of that year) and so we waited until we were positive everyone was completely healthy and then switched in April (many months following the birth).
In June, I started to mysteriosly and very suddenly have excruciating tailbone pain and went to the doctor. After many doctors, tests, x-rays and so on, they discovered a severe tailbone dislocation and fracturing that was not fixable. I saw the best of the best to try to have it relocated and fixed, numerous times by many top docs over the past 1 1/2 years. Medi-share covered all visits which was great.
The problem came when I was referred onto a Neuro-Surgeon for surgery. I literally have to get my tailbone removed (ughh) and this is a pretty big deal and can only be done by a neuro-surgeon. The biggest mystery is how this all happened. I have told the truth to every doctor and specialist, that I don’t recall ever falling or any accident to cause this injury. It was sudden and mysterious. I would tell each doctor, the only thing I have done is sledding all winter with my kids (with no falls or pain) and a while back I gave birth (with no complications or pain or injury.). So while most docs noted unknown cause, some must have noted, possibly due to sledding cause unknown, and some must have noted, possibly due to birth, cause unknown.
Well, Medi-share put my surgery into a “pre-eligibility review”. It was a lot of work on my end as I had to contact each doctor (there were many) and have them send all their records to medi-share, and then I had to confirm that medishare recieved them. The review took 8 weeks (on top of the year I have already lived with an injury of this magnitude which is excruciating). We were SHOCKED when they came back and declined. Their decline was based on a couple words in docs notes saying possibly from birth.
We were so sad because we purposely wanted to be so careful this would not happen and that is why we waited until April to switch (son born in Jan) to make sure completely healthy and symptom free for many months. Then on top of that my first complaint of pain and first appointment was not until well into June. 3 months after joining and 6 months post-birth. One of my docs, the one who had to refer me onto the neurosurgeon, is a top Ortho Trauma specialist who takes care of the Olympic US Ski Team. He was furious and wrote a letter to Medi-share with clear medical records and notes that there was no causal relationship between the birth and this injury. In fact, by the time I made my way up to that specialist, it was over a year after the birth of my son.
I have pleaded with Medi-share, written letters, prayed with them on the phone, and my docs have written letters. I appealed their review and that whole process was another 8 weeks of painful waiting, and they declined, based again on a couple notation words, ignoring the appointment dates, the letters, and I have spent so much time in tears on the phone explaining everything from beginning to end.
The sad thing is that they come in the name of Christ and Christian principles and morals. But they have sadly not walked the walk as they talk the talk. We have faithfully paid 530 per month for years and never used a penny of it up until this unexpected injury. With the previous company, had I never switched companies, this would have been covered no problem. In fact, we paid $800/mth with our previous company and for years never entered a doctors office except for stitches once and for routine physicals that came back healthy. Otherwise, not ever costing them a dime.
The same is the case with Medi-share. It feels like being robbed. Imagine paying all that money each month and striving to live a life of truth and of health, just to have it result in this. What’s worse, is now if we were to switch to another place such as Samaratin Ministries or another Insurance Company again … my tailbone would never be covered as it would be pre-existing condition. So I feel so robbed and helpless and so ANGRY that they use the name of Christ and then do such things so people will look at that and think “Christians are no different – they robbed me – Why would I ever consider Jesus when this is what it’s all about!” That infuriates me as it defaces the name of Christ our Lord and Savior who is the most faithful trustworthy of all!
I sadly cannot recommend Medi-share as our experience has been worse that any secular company we have used for our lifetimes. They have not shown any Christ-Centered actions – regardless of what is boasted with words. It’s a great concept, yet sad that it is not lived up to.
Hope that helps.
God Bless.
I was so close to sending in my application to MediShare this week, but decided I needed to do more research and prayer to have peace about this big decision. Well, I’m so glad I came across this article and these reviews, particularly those of MediShare members. Thank you all for sharing your experiences. This has truly helped me in deciding what is best for my family.
To Mommyof3PreciousOnes: My heart goes out to you. Sorry to hear of the negative experiences and all the stress accompanying it. Please know that your review was extremely helpful in guiding my decision.
My family and I sound like the ideal household to participate: very healthy, hardly ever need medical attention, committed to healthy, pure, organic lifestyle, dedicated Christians, we play by the rules,financially responsible…but it’s my concern about major medical incidences (like your story) and issues with future EOI(evidence of insurability/ proof of good health) that prevents me from leaving our current “safety net” of the traditional health insurance plan. Although we have no chronic health problems, accidents and the unforeseen happen.
It’s too bad because I was really enthusiastic about the whole concept.
Did you bring it to the Seven Participant Appeal Panel?
There are christian trial lawyers all over the country. You could try and go that route. I’m sorry about what has happened to you and hope it all works out.
Mommyof3preciousones – so sorry about your story.
What a cautionary tale.
I believe this happens because this whole thing is based on a cockeyed idea of what being Christians together is.
We should certainly care for one anotheran and it -may- be that we as a group are healthier, but maybe not – I’ve seen the number of donuts people can eat at coffee hour!
Instead, the basis ought to be on being the kingdom of God together – and that would mean blessing our neighbors as well. From that perspective, perhaps the Christlike perspective is to be part of a ‘secular’ plan and contribute not only toward our own health care, but if we’re really so healthy, toward our neighbors’ care as well. That good Samaritan comes to mind.
The notion that Christians ought to pull out and only insure one another because we’re so ‘healthy’ is bankrupt – as you have seen, the world, creation and nature are all fallen, and we get it in our own flesh as well as anyone.
There are many misunderstandings and inaccuracies on this website and in this thread. The Medi-Share member-voted Guidelines are clear that pre-existing and congenital conditions aren’t eligible for sharing. People need to read the guidelines before they apply. There is an appeal process if something is ruled ineligible for sharing and in a rare gray area. As a part of the appeal process a 10 member peer panel makes the final ruling before going to arbitration. The panel members are ordinary members of Medi-Share and not on the payroll of Medi-Share. If they rule that the medical records show the condition is pre-existing or congenital then the member-voted guidelines are applied and the condition isn’t shared. There is no profit motive for Medi-Share to deny anyone’s medical claims. In the situation of a condition that isn’t eligible for sharing, the members have created a benevolent program called Extra Blessings. A family from my church got over $10,000 of help through the Extra Blessings program 6 years ago. All of the sharing ministries (there are three but Medi-Share provides the most help financially and administratively) exclude pre-existing conditions. One sharing ministry (not Medi-Share) several years ago tried to accept pre-existing conditions and they went bankrupt. To accept pre-existing conditions is essentially to become a charitable organization–not Medi-Share’s mission. Medi-Share is primarily a stewardship program, not a charity. Several people in this thread are wanting to hold Medi-Share to a higher standard than their local church. Your local church also has limits on their benevolent programs and the charity that they can provide. In 17 years of ministry, Medi-Share has paid out over $530 million in medical bills and the program has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau: http://www.bbb.org/central-florida/business-reviews/medical-service-organizations/christian-care-ministry-in-melbourne-fl-12000835
Thanks, McFall, for your very good overview dated today, January 13th (you can see my comments August 23, made, unintentionally, on my Bday!).
A point I may not have made clearly enough: as we members vote on guidelines, the organization negotiates those guidelines with our major health insurer. We remain within our guidelines in each case so that the insurance policy will cover those cases should they develop into major needs. I guess that when there is a question about applying the guidelines, the office must take that up with the insurer because they must both agree on the interpretation.
I think Christian Care is a very compassionate way to operate. We individually agree when we join, and cumulatively agree when we vote, exactly how we are going to express our compassion toward each others needs. When you compassionately agree to help with my medical care and I agree to stay away from illegal drugs, for instance, then I overdose on them, I would be completely out of place to accuse you of being an incompassionate person for keeping the agreement we both came to. In fact, unless I were a completely self-absorbed person, I would expect you to keep your side of the agreement and would agreeably commend you for doing so.
My encouragement to the office is to continue to orchestrate the agreement, no more and no less (as I believe they are doing), as the managers of the compassionate contributions of others. To do otherwise is to become less compassionate toward those who are donating to meet specific needs of others in this way. Occasionally the office has developed its own sense of compassion toward a hospital in Africa, or another project not related to the distribution of the compassionate healthcare of participants. However, I am sure contributions are in reality designated and should not be channeled in other directions. No doubt many members and many people in the office express their individual compassion by giving generously to other such causes through organizations set up for those purposes, and this is as it should be.
Good article. Let me tell you folks, I have litigated against major medical insurnace companies, who basically jerked folks around in paying the claims; talk about “wing and a prayer”; the regular medical insurance companies certainly have more exclusions of coverage than Med Share here. I have health insurance with a good company now, but with all the regulations etc… believe me, red tape abounds.
So, when they bash your program, they need to take a look in the mirror. Why do you think there is such a cry and hue for health care reform. Looks to me like Med Share was light years ahead!
Bryce Neier
I agree with you Bryce – claims issues abound with health insurance companies. However, you must admit that Medi-Share has some serious problems with paying legitimate claims in a timely manner. I have been in the health insurance world for over 10 years and haven’t seen such a consistently poor response to paying legit claims by any carrier. I friend of mine has said the same things that have been posted here. He is very diligent with finances, yet he and his wife have spent countless frustrating hours trying to get Medi-share to pay their providers for two claims. This is a major stress factor for people who already have challenges with health concerns and finances — this is truly adding insult to injury (or sickness). Having to deal with collection agencies, etc. for legitimate claims related to childbirth, etc. is totally unacceptable.
I think Medi-share is a great concept. I think it works wonderfully for those who don’t exceed their share limit. However, they really need to address their claims-paying process.
Hey Greg,
I don’t know too much about the claims issues with Medi Share; have read their ads over the years; got a packet about two yrs ago; was looking at it;
Any others out there who can share their claims experience?
Bryce
Greg, I have been with Medi-Share a long time and had major claims, and I’m wondering specifically what the problems your friend had with receiving reimbursements for his claims, because it could have been for various reasons that Medi-Share makes clear with participants from the beginning. For instance the organization is a member of the PHCS network of the PPO MultiPlan and reimburses amounts to medical providers accordingly. If your friend received care outside the PPO, then the providers may have sent him bills to cover the differences in costs, whereas providers within the PPO are not supposed to do that, and it may have taken him time to clarify and take care of all that. If your friend thought the providers would bill Medi-Share directly and delayed collecting his bills and sending them in, then payments would be later than he expected. As you see, there are several ways he could have been disappointed if he tried to handle things outside the clear methods. Just to say he was disappointed with late payments overlooks the reasons it happened. I haven’t run into that personally.
John, My friend had two separate claims; Both of them were with in-network providers. He did things the right way, so the delayed claims payments were no fault of his own. If you read through the posts here, I think it is plain that this problem of delayed claims payments and the resulting problems (collection agencies) is not very uncommon with Medi-Share members. Maybe I’m wrong to make this assumption. As one person posted, it is important to be very proactive about claims. I think the sharing concept of Medi-Share is great. This seems to be one drawback that hopefully Medi-share will improve.
Based on my perusal of this article and the exclusion criteria made available on Medi-Share’s website, I would highlight an additional hazard for potential participants (and an additional reason for concern that unBiblical principles may be at work): Medi-Share’s blanket exclusion of “Psychiatric or psychological (mental health) counseling, testing, treatment or hospitalization.”
Apparently the portion of the Evangelical subculture that still stigmatizes mental health disorders has a strong enough voice in the Medi-Share membership to deny coverage of legitimate medical issues that do NOT in any way stem from living an “unBiblical lifestyle.” The suicidally depressed teenager, the mother who suffers a schizophrenic break at 35, the soldier who comes home from Iraq with PTSD — all of these will be forced to cover their own treatment expenses for devastating and even life-threatening illnesses because of… what, exactly? An underlying assumption that “real Christians” don’t suffer from psychiatric problems? You might as well arbitrarily refuse to cover broken bones because “real Christians” aren’t subject to the laws of gravity.
A tremendous amount of misinformation and superstition around mental health still persists in both the Christian and secular spheres; however, a Christian organization explicitly devoted to providing healthcare through Western medicine has a responsibility to be fully aware of the most accurate medical information available. Medi-Share will continue to make unjust and, yes, unChristian decisions surrounding mental health coverage so long as it continues to fail in this regard.
Medi-Share has done nothing wrong by saying they will not cover claims of people who drink and have an accident while intoxicated. It is OK to put that in your guidelines and then stick to it. Jesus set down guidelines. It is not un-Christian to stick to your guidelines that you have laid out. When you sign up with Medi-Share, you are promising to not drink alcohol. If you break rules, there are consequences. When the Highway Department says, “Drink, Drive, Go To Jail”, it would be sad if they never sent people to jail. We would have drunks all over the roads, worse than we have now. Read the scriptures which talk about saying what you mean and meaning what you say. A person who drinks and then expects a company to break rules for them is barking up the wrong tree. This would be considered a form of tough love. Read the stories in the Bible where Christ had tough love. My main point is, that if you sign a contract which says you will not drink because we will not cover if you do, keep your end of the contract, but do not point a finger when they keep their end of the contract. As for the claim that Medi-Share would not pay, an Extra Blessings fund is set up for those instances.
Hi,
I’ve been on the search for health coverage for over 12 years. I have also been self emploeed for a majority of the years. Being a small(emphasis on small)business owner for 7 of those twelve years. I have found that my greatest resource is taking GOD at his word. Having an HSA or any other form of insurance including a medical sharing program is fine and wonderful, but don’t ever exclude the power of the Almighty and his son Jesus to fill in any and all gaps. When the body of Christ comes together as in one heart in prayer and supplication, all things are possible. My point is simple, put your trust back in GOD and he WILL provide. I read all the stories above about the intoxicated man, and how un-charitable it was for his coverage to be denied. Wake up! GOD is a mericful and loving God, but he is also a just God. He forgives us daily of many un-told sins, but he does’nt take away the consequences of those sins every time. When David fell into sin with the tragedy of Bathseba, he was forgiven but still paid a very steep price. David seen his sin and acknowledged it before GOD. David took ownership of his sin and GOD did as he promised in every way. Also remember that Medi-share is a business, and shares are calculated no different than how insurance companies calculate them, risk vs cost. They have to base the value of a monthly share in to proportion of the claims recieved. Insurance companies than add a tremendous amount on for “profit and overhead”, which is un-disclosed except to the board and comptroller. At least medi-share is up front with there math. And let’s not take the responsibility of the exuberante cost of health care away from the Hospitals and Physicians to, they to have lost sight of the hypocritical oath! I am a general contractor by trade and have seen first hand the vast greed in the health care industry. I could send you pictures of some homes along with the ammeneties that are built for these people. WOW does sin abide! Doctors, lawyers, executives on the rampage without any Jesus to pilot there ship but there own sin nature. I conclussion, if medi-share accepted every pre-exsisting condition and did’nt operate with good wisdom and stewardship, many people wouild not be able to afford medi-share at all. Satan would win, the company would go bankrupt and thousands would loss in the end!
Just chew on this for awhile!
Thanks, In Christ service,
Robert
My wife and I have used both Medi-Share and Samaritan Ministries. My wife’s first C-section was covered by Medi-Share. The money came through just fine, but there was a long wait. We become pretty uncomfortable because we felt the hospital should not have to wait that long (it was several months). We would have paid for it ourselves and had Medi-Share simply reimburse us, but some friends of ours tried that and waited more than a year to get their money. We switched to Samaritan before our second child and our experience with them was much better. Since we are the saving type, we simply paid the bill out of our savings and waited about two months to get reimbursed by the other members. Others we know have had good luck with Medi-Share, but we like Samaritan better.
I am a 59 year old male who was laid off 2 years ago. Since then I have only been able to get temporary part time work which doesn’t have health insurance. I had been looking at Medishare for the 2 years since I got laid off. But I was able to get my same medical plan as my former employer, an HMO with very low out of pocket and no deductible, for only $120.00 a month. This was due to the stimulus plan. In October, my HMO coverage was continued for another 18 months, but at $475.00 a month. Suddenly I became interested in alternatives to COBRA coverage. The Medishare plan of $360.00 a month with a $1,250.00 annual deductible does look appealing.
I have had high blood pressure, controlled with medication for over 20 years. I wasn’t expecting them to cover that. I can get my medications from Wal Mart, Target or Wal Greens for $20.00 for a 90 day supply. That isn’t a concern for me.
I applied for Medishare, and answered their questionnaire on-line about two weeks ago. A few days later I applied for Anthem Blue Cross. Although, Blue Cross has a a deductible of 3,300 per year (then pays 60% until you reach a total out of pocket of $6,800 per year) the premium is only $293 a month (that is with a 25% up-charge over the quoted rate for my pre-existing condition). Although the total out of pocket on Blue Cross is high, it does cover 2 routine doctor visits per year without needing to meet the deductible. Medishare doesn’t cover routine visits.
I have already been approved by Blue Cross and received my ID cards for coverage starting March 1. If I accept Blue Cross I can cancel the COBRA effective Feb 28.
Blue Cross was OK with going with my doctor’s records from my last visit in August. However, Medishare wants me to visit my doctor to get my current weight verified (I weigh 165 now, but in August I weighed 170. But at 5’8 inches the 170 is not over weight). They also want my doctor to verify my height, waist size and blood pressure, even though my doctor has 20 years of records on these. They even go as far as recommending I take a tape measure with me to my doctor visit. I guess doctors don’t often measure waist size. No problem with that. But is my current health plan going to pay for my office visit to get these things verified for my new health plan? If not it is $140.00 for an office visit.
I paid Medishare $50.00 for an application fee. But if I am approved I will owe them not only my first months premium (share) of $360.00, but another additional fee of $125.00 approval fee in addition to the already paid $50.00, plus whatever the doctor’s visit will cost. So the first month isn’t cheap.
Also note that the first month with Medishare I am not covered for any medical expense sharing for the first month, except for an accident. That is limited to $50,000. Except for the high blood pressure I have been healthy and not in the hospital since July 31 1966 (yes, since before we landed on the moon!).
If I go with Medishare the first month will be very expensive:
$50.00 application fee
$125.00 fee, plus the first month share of $360.00
Plus $475.00 to my old insurance company for my COBRA coverage to be continued for another month since Medishare does not pay for any medial expenses the first month (except as noted above). So, basically I am paying for double medical coverage the first month.
Total first month cost: $475 + $50 + $125 + 360 = $1,010
That $1,010 will pay 3-1/2 months of Blue Cross premiums.
The only reason for anyone over age 40 to ever needs health insurance is to not worry about their life savings wiped out in case of a medical catastrophe. The older you get the more likely you are to have a major medical event. I don’t want to spend a week or 2 in the hospital and come out with a $250,000 bill that will wipe out my savings (because basically that is all I am living on now) or require me to file for bankruptcy.
Despite the various opinions on whether the medical expenses of the drunk driver should have been covered, my main concern is if I have a major medial event due to no fault of my own, am I going to be covered? The stories I’ve read about calls from collection agencies, the 2 years it took to pay a $70,000 bill, and the lady with the tail bone issue have me thinking this Medishare is not a good way to cover yourself against unexpected large medical expenses.
If I am approved and 6 months from now I need heart bypass surgery are they going to try to get out of paying because I already have high blood pressure? (which is controlled with medication). Remember people with normal blood pressure have heart issues.
If they do pay, will I need to put up with 2 years of collection calls and threat of lawsuits before it is paid off? Someone recovering from a major health issue doesn’t need the additional grief of worrying: “Are my bills going to get paid or are they going to take my house to cover my bill?”
I was happy to hear of such a plan that appears to Glorify God. I would love to participate but my chronic illnesses since childhood would prevent acceptance. So I’m sticking with the plan Jesus picked out for me and the great retirement plan too.
I’m coming in a little late to the discussion, but I wanted to address a comment by Sgillesp regarding “retail” medical care. I recently went through a hospitalization as an uninsured patient and every billing department I dealt with except the labs offered a 30% discount for cash payment and an additional 10% if you were able to pay within 30 days. Which makes a person wonder who is paying retail?
I have had some issues with insurance in the past. I currently have a simple plan with a somewhat hefty deductible, and I wanted to look into other options. The Medi-share plan seemed appealing since it is a “Christian” organization and supposedly non-profit.
When I contacted Medi-share, I was informed about all the perks and benefits which would lead any discerning individual to consider this as a viable option. We went over a few prerequisites such as no smoking, leading a moral life as defined by the bible, etc. All of this is fine for me in terms of my belief system and personal morals. We then went over a few medical related questions, and the issue of pre-existing conditions came up.
Without sounding like a hypochondriac, I can say that I have a few medical issues which requires regular medication and probably will for the foreseeable future. All issues are hereditary and cannot be traced to any lifestyle choices. Unfortunately, none of these ailments, one of which is asthma (which has placed me in the hospital in the past) is supported by Medi-share unless I have not had any recurrence (including maintenance medication) for at least three years. My medication doesn’t have a generic form and is very expensive. I cannot simply give it up for three years in order to have it covered.
While Mr. McNair was very friendly over the phone, he could offer little in the way of comfort for my pre-existing problems. He did mention that there is a plan for if I were to incur a medical expense over $2,500 in one instance (i.e. hospitalization), but seeing as how I almost didn’t survive such an encounter last time, I am reluctant to depend on such a “perk”.
All in all, Medi-share seems like a very viable and good health-care program so long as the applicant is healthy and has no issues that can cause problems in the near future. I was truly hoping for an affordable alternative to insurance, but it seems that Medi-share is the same as any other insurance plan as far as coverage and care are concerned.
For now I will stick with my current insurance. As simple as it is, it does cover my asthma and all its treatments (once I pay off my deductible). Hopefully, in the future, there might be a Christian organization that truly will help those who really need an alternative to insurance.
I am seriously looking into the Med-Share “plan” and based on comments in this thread regarding payment of claims I contacted the company to ask about this. I was told that they didn’t have a current “report” that showed the data about how long it is taking to pay claims but that “about a year ago they were paying in 83 days” and they were working on improving the time. This is very close to 3 months! I find this appalling and unacceptable that doctors have to wait that long and it affects the patient to doctor relationship. I asked for a current report and they have not replied, nor have they even acknowledged my request. This is really poor customer service. I gave them this link to read up on what people have to say about their experiences with them.
I need someone’s advice. Please help, if you can.
I’m a fairly healthy 62-yo single woman with moderately high BP, controlled with medication. I’m self-employed and my Blue Cross premium for myself alone recently went up to $850/month! Ugh. I don’t see how I can continue making these premium payments. I’m barely covering my basic living expenses.
I’m considering Medi-Share. I have read EVERY post above dating back to June, 2009, so no need to go back over ground already covered. However, I wonder if anyone can/will succinctly answer these questions.
1. With Medi-Share, what’s the very worst that could happen?
2. If I give up my Blue Cross insurance, I will be considered uninsured, right? Which means I will never again qualify for health insurance, correct?
3. What happens when I turn 65 and qualify for Medicare?
4. Is the additional plan for prescription meds worthwhile?
Thanks for your experience and insights.
Not a good idea if you have a claim. Although the intentions may be sincere, the talk definitely is not the walk. Just try to get an approval for a medical procedure (which takes two months or more just to be reviewed) or try to get a claim paid. Experience speaks volumes. Good intentions are just what they are until put into action. I have yet to see this.
Sheryl, Since my last post on Feb 13, I decide to go with Anthem Blue Cross.
I am a healthy male, 59 years old with moderately high blood pressure that is controlled with medication. I also have a past history of slightly elevated cholesterol but it has been normal the past 2 annual checkups. They are however charging me a 25% premium surcharge for my pre-existing conditions. But my monthly premium is only $294.00 a month. I do have to pay two months at a time though.
The way to lower your monthly premium is to raise your deductible. My deductible is basically $6,900 a year. But they do allow two office visits per year for a $40.00 co-pay without meeting the deductible. If you are basically healthy you probably only go to the doctor twice a year anyway.
I said basically $6,900 a year because it works like this: $3,900 a year deductible. After that is met, they pay 60% until your total out of pocket is $6,900. Then they pay 100%. There is no cap. I know $6,900 is a lot of money, but it is better than a $50,000 medical bill and no insurance. Most people can fit $6,900 on a credit card.
To answer your questions: “1. With Medi-Share, what’s the very worst that could happen?”
You have a large medical bill that doesn’t get paid in a timely manner and you are sued. Medishare does pay claims, but sometimes it takes them a while to pay the entire amount. I know large insurance companies are slow at paying too. But everyone has heard of Blue Cross. If you are unknown you sometimes need to do better than the known companies.
“2. If I give up my Blue Cross insurance, I will be considered uninsured, right? Which means I will never again qualify for health insurance, correct?”
Yes, you will be uninsured. It won’t prevent you from qualifying for insurance but the rate could be higher. Medishare emphases they are not insurance. When my past insurance plans have ended, because my employer switched companies, the insurance company always sent me a Certificate of Prior Insurance. You won’t be getting that should you end your Medishare plan.
“What happens when I turn 65 and qualify for Medicare?”
In three years Medishare should have Medicare supplement plan. I was told their board of directors were working on getting a plan in place but they don’t have one now.
Medi-Share has a program for members over 65 called Senior Assist .http://mychristiancare.org/Medi-Share/Public_Content/Senior_Assist.aspx
We are presently with Medi-Share and have been for about 3 years. We have only used it once, when my husband cut his finger open in a welding accident. It was finally taken care of (less our responsibility portion) about a year later. Also, when my husband turned 55 our rates went up. I have recently found something very similar, called Christian Healthcare Ministries, which operates on the same principle, only it will cost me $250/mo less and the price does not increase as we age. So I have decided to switch.
Have you used the Christian Healthcare Ministries organization yet? I’m curious as to your experience with them.
Thank you!
I would greatly discourage any one from this plan. Everything that has been submitted to this plan has been rejected as a pre-existing condition, even things that were clearly not pre-existing. There really is no one watching over them to keep them honest. All of this doesn’t even come close to what you may be used to with a “regular” health insurance plan.
Good initial article.
I’m a current representative with Medi-Share (was formerly an insurance agent) and my job is to essentially answer questions pertaining to the program and to help people determine if Medi-Share is the right choice for them in a casual, conversational manner. Oftentimes information can get twisted, and some posts I read through were out-dated as Medi-Share has made continual improvements (Offering a medicare supplement in August this year). I’m not posting to sell you on Medi-Share, but offering my contact information so you can receive direct answers to direct questions.
I’m happy to help. 1-800-772-5623 extension #2350
I would like to remind anyone reading this that having health insurance or sharing healthcare costs is not a license to be negligent of taking care of yourself and constantly educating yourself on how to do so. I believe that the basics of eating right and exercise on a consistent basis is crucial for OPTIMAL health. (Remember Daniel??) Note I say OPTIMAL, not just problem free. Of course, dealing with spiritual side of things by keeping faith in the Ultimate Healer and doing your part to deal with stress and promptly forgiving those that hurt you or forgiving yourself. Spiritual issues affect the body.
Without getting too deep, I would suggest (if not happening already) that Medi-share would have spiritual counselors or health consultants that would work with people with healthcare needs. Ideally, these can should be in your community and local church. True sharing not only means our monthly dues, but our time, space, things, food, expertise, knowledge, kind words for brothers and sisters in the Faith. Anyway, having a doctor hotline could help offset costs from your deductible (instead of running to a doctor every time something comes up). One I’ve used and recommend is Life Extension Foundation, which is only $75/yr and whose doctors have a both a traditional and natural medicine understanding. You call in a talk to a doctor, tell them your symptoms, and they’ll give you recommendations. If its serious, they’ll tell you to see a doctor in person. Or you can ask questions for other people or about long term issues.
My point is take charge of your own health. Do your own homework. I am looking for an “insurance” plan that would be around $50/mo since I would require only coverage for emergencies. Checkups and such I believe should be out of pocket.
Christian Care Ministry actually does have a commitment to health in the ways you describe and there are health coaches for members who are in the Restore program. Non-Medi-Share Members can also be a part of Restore. Here’s a link about the program: http://mychristiancare.org/restore/
I am a heath insurance agent in Florida. I have been selling all forms of health insurance since 1986. I find Medi-Share to be very intriguing and potentially a great way to reduce cost yet I have some reservations. I am considering joining (I did put in my application) but after reading all the details in the material I received, I find that there could be some very slippery ground. Or course from a spiritual standpoint the concept is phenominal (with the exception of the pre-existing condition stance) yet from a worldly view there seems to be verbiage that would raise huge caution flags to me if I were dealing with an insurance company. The premesis of living a bilically based lifestyle sounds great but from a worldly perspective, my concern is that it may also be a clever avenue to get out of claim payments while standing behind Faith Based reasoning. The other concern I have is that with Medishare, if things don’t work and I drop from participating, Im concerned there could be a loss of the big benefit of pre-existing condition coverage takeover. In Florida, pre-esisting conditions are fully covered on group health plans as long as you are coming from another health insurance plan with no more than a 62 day lapse in coverage. I am not sure if Medishare qualifies as prior health insurance especially since they themselves say they are not health insurance. What this means to me is that if someone were to come onto this plan and for any reason it doesnt work out, they will no longer have the ability to get on a group health plan and have any pre-existing conditions accepted. That frightens me and one of the main reasons I have not fully bought into this yet. Finally (I’m really bearing my heart here), IF they are TRULY in the spirit and IF they are TRULY in their hearts acting through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then I’d jump right on the program and tell all my friends to do so too. However if at their core they maintain a business mindset and not a spiritual mindset than the pre-existing condition limitations and exclusions, “life style stances” and heavy underwriting causes me great concern. If they maintain a business mindset behind the closed doors and not a spiritual mindest, I’d personally run as fast as I could from this program. I think under this scenario, they could wrestle out of any large claim based on tecnhicalities or rules. I am actively researching wheter or not there has been any significant complaint history to try to put this concern to ease. With an insurance contract , although probably more expensive I feel there is more black and white to operate within. I still may move ahead with membership but after much more research. If I feel at peace in my heart with Medishare after my due diligence, I will become their largest advocate! I have to pray more about this decision and obtain a peace that I am resting my health care in the hands of a truly Spirit led ministry and not a business. I’d love to be able to move forward because from first appearance, it looks great to me; just checking under the hood.
Rick – Have you found any other pros/cons with your research or concerns from an insurance agents’ point of view? Did you sign up with Medi-Share?
Find this to be as bogus and self-serving as any other health care/ supplemental provider. You are eligible as long as “they” determine you will not need care. You get the income support as long as everybody agress to pay it (a very self-serving approach). I am not a Bible scholar, but I do believe carrying the burdon of your brothers means helping those with the greatest need, not those that can afford to pay or the ones the group decides to help. I wouldn’t touch this program with a 10-foot pole.
Does MediShare negotiate with hospitals and doctors before paying bills like insurance companies do?
Medi-Share uses a network of PPOs to keep shares down and also negotiates bills for the members.
Thank you all for the information on Medi-Share. After reading many of these posts I want to give out some info that may help SOME of you who are still uninsured.
If you live in or around San Antonio, Texas visit Faith Family Clinic if you work and are uninsured and do not qualify for CareLink.
http://faithfamilyclinic.org
If you live in or around Nashville check out Faith Family Medical Clinic
http://www.faithmedical.org/
Hopefully these resources will help!!
-amber
My husband and I are in MediShare and think it is great!
Greetings one and all.
I confess that I am skeptic in life, despite my Faith, which is strong. One needs only turn on the evening news to see the cruelty we inflict on one another or the scandals that lurk around every corner. So I was naturally skeptical of this “christian program” as I read through all the comments I could on Medishare. I visited their website and I heard a few ads on Christian radio – but I had trouble believing the hype and expected the worst. I saw reference in one post to an employee named Mr. McNair and also saw the post from Aj who offered to assist with questions and I figured, with the cost of my insurance set to increase to $900 a month in September, I had nothing to lose by calling to find out about the program and compare costs.
I called Aj, who is an obvious employee of medishare. I expected the same treatment I got everywhere else, a pushy sales associate who wanted to know everything about me and my medical past over the phone before offering a speck of information about the program. I also expected to be on the phone for at least an hour while Aj sold me on the program. I expected to be a prospect, a fish on a hook waiting to be reeled in. Afterall, I’m a skeptic.
In truth, I was blown away by the experience. Aj was warm, engaging, funny, and professional – a nice change of pace from the mile-a-minute salespeople at Blue Cross. He asked me what information I would like to know about the program before ever asking me about my medical past. When I informed him that I wanted to know the price, how it worked and what wasn’t covered – Aj provided exactly that information, and he made it fun. I laughed on the phone and almost forgot I was calling about insurance. I wanted an apples-to-apples comparison between my current coverage and the comparable medishare plan and Aj provided it; he even even took a moment to explain the difference between co-pays and co-insurance without making me feel like an idiot.
Basically, my current plan with Kaiser has a 2500 deductible and a maximum coinsurance of $5000. My total out of pocket could be 7500. My premiums will go up to 900/month starting in september.
The medishare plan has a 2500 deductible and zero coinsurance. My total out of pocket could 2500. The premium would be just under 400/month, and could be less if I qualify for a health discount program.
I’m a skeptic, but saving 6000/year just in premiums is hard to ignore!
Despite the obvious price advantage and the possible discount, Aj didn’t try to sell me on the medishare insurance. Instead he acknowledged the importance of the decision and suggested I take time to review the program guidelines on the website so that I could make an “informed decision.” He even informed me that he would not allow me to apply before I had read the guidelines for the program. Before he let me know, Aj offered to field any further questions I might have and bid me a blessed day. The call took less than 15 minutes.
I was impressed with the numbers and the honesty of the answers I received, but I was more impressed with the professionalism and respect that I received. If I had to base my decision solely on customer service from this single call, it would be an easy decision to make.
I plan to review the information, compare it more closely to my current plan and I am certain I will have more questions for Aj. If I decide to move forward with the medishare insurance, I will be sure to review it here in the future.
Be Blessed!
Hey Everyone. I have two questions:
1. Has anyone had a baby while on Medi-Share? How was the experience?
2. If I put my wife on the plan, but keep myself on my employer’s plan, will the premium be astronomical?
Had 2 babies on Medi-Share – they take forever to pay, but they did pay everything and I had no problems. I would just take the plunge unless you employer’s plan is free, Medishare is so much cheaper than regular insurance. I also had a Melanoma and they’ve paid for all followup care and initial treatment no problem. The biggest issue is making sure they pay the provider in a timely fashion…you will get late notices if they don’t.
I like the idea of saving money on insurance because we choose to live a healthy lifestyle. Eating right, exercising and sleeping well are essential to health and to a certain extent, we are all responsible for basic levels of health. These lifestyle choices definitely shows up in medical records (and one’s girth at the waistline). It seems the It Medi-Share tries to screen out those who are medically dependent or a high risk because of lifestyle choices. I realize that many people have medical issues that aren’t their fault like cancer, diabetes or heart conditions. But a lot of cancers are promoted by unhealthy habits like smoking or overexposure to sun. Diabetes and heart desease in many instances is brought on by lifestyle choices as well. The bottom line is that this plan isn’t for everyone and I’m glad we and others will have to qualify to get in. This “non insurance” plan that can cover major medical expenses will be a good choice for some and not so for others. And it’s clear to me that sharing isn’t charity. There are a lot of folks looking for a handout. It seems our society has bred that into us and are the first to accuse the church of not doing its part. My question to them is how many times have they help pay medical expenses for even their extended families? Medi-Share seems to be a way to work with others committed to good health and not just feed into the welfare mentality. For those folks, I’m already contributing through my taxes.
It’s certainly a creative idea! I also think it would be slightly difficult to tell who is actually of faith and not just trying to game the system for cheaper insurance. But if they work in some sort of checks and balances with the church to make sure people are active members, I could see it working in smaller communities.
My husband is overweight. He weighs around the 375 mark & has a 6ft frame. Of course, he wants to lose weight and is successful in spurts…
Because of his weight we cannnot get him accepted with Health Insurances & if we do they quote us outrageous premiums. Would being overweight be a reason Medi-Share would deny him?
Hi Angela,
We examine applicants on a case-by-case basis and we’re continually reviewing our policies, so it may be best for you to call one of our Reps to talk with them at 1-800-772.56323. It’s hard to answer your question just by what you wrote here because more goes into qualifying than just weight and height. I ecourage you to call to have your questions answered more thoroughly.
However, we do have a special program called Restore, which provides a health coach to help reverse/prevent disease and/or lose weight to get in a healthy range. A lot of our Restore health partners find real success when on the program. We have overweight members be a part of the program so they can meet healthy goals and make successful lifestyle changes.
However, if for some reason your husband was denied from Medi-Share, he can still become a member of the Restore program without being a Medi-Share member and work toward becoming a member in the future (if his disqualifying reason was something that could be worked on through the program).
Here is a testimonial video from someone who was on the Restore program. She wasn’t on there for weight, but for cholesterol and found great success. http://mychristiancare.org/video.aspx?vid=520
One of our representatives would be happy to answer any of your questions. Feel free to call one of our Reps at 1-800-772-5623.
Nikki, I’ve been subscribed to these comments ever since I left a response in January (see above) noting with great concern Medishare’s blanket exclusion of coverage for mental health issues. Not entirely to my surprise, not a single commenter has addressed this issue in the past nine months. As you are apparently affiliated with Medishare, could you possibly address this in some fashion?
i’m in your same boat. we joined Samaritan Ministries about a year ago.
Hi Naomi,
Christian Care Ministry’s mission is to help support and share in the burdens of our Member’s spiritual and physical well-being in as many ways as we can. Members choose and vote on what areas they specifically want to share in and what they do not want to share in. At this time mental health issues are not shared. However, our program is always changing and growing with our Members. For example, originally maternity was not shared. But after a vote, Members decided to change that and now we have a maternity program many Members enjoy. That being said, we do want to support our Members emotionally and spiritually as well. We have a staff chaplain who is available to speak with Members who need to talk and have prayer needs. Also most of our employees who work with Members over the phone are there for prayer as well.
But more importantly, I want you to know that the reason we do not share in mental health issues is NOT because we find it unbiblical, like your original comment in January was concerned about. Just like we didn’t share in maternity before– it wasn’t because the membership thought maternity was unbiblical or “not Christian.” It’s just unfortunately, we cannot share in everything. But as our Membership grows, what we share in does expand because growth in our numbers increases the capacity of what we are able to share in. Since we’re a sharing ministry, everyone’s care relies solely on everyone else’s contributions. If we shared in everything, we’d have a harder time being able to take care of a lot of our Members in the way that we currently do. Medi-Share never prorates the shares allocated toward your medical bills. If your bill is eligible, then your bill will be shared to the full extent it is eligible for. We also try to keep our shares as low as possible through discounts with Preferred Provider Organizations so each family will be able to budget the money they save for what they need for other un-shared medical expenses, such as routine and preventative care.
As we grow, we expand our programs. We’re always looking for more ways to better serve the needs of our Members. And we have yearly ballots for Members to vote on changes they want to see in our programs. Hopefully one day we will be able to assist in other needs such as mental health issues. If you would like to talk to someone in person about this, feel free to call one of our representatives who may be able to better assist you in answering your questions. The number to reach someone at is 1-800-772-5623
Our family is a member of Medi-Share…Actually when we called medishare to tell them we were having another baby, they sent us to the government and told us to get medicaid.
Joining Medicaid when a Member is having another baby is not required. It is completely optional. However, Medi-Share does offer incentives to qualified Members who use such programs as Medicaid.
Incentives? That sounds highly unethical. Why are they cost shifting when they say they have a pregnancy benefit? That is stealing! A healthy pregnancy is not a sickness so why would they ask there members to do this? Shady and unscrupulous behavior is a warning to all to STAY AWAY!
I don’t believe the intent of that option is cost shifting, though I can understand your initial reaction. Medi-Share is used by both people with insurance and those without. Those who are un-insured sometimes are already on Medicaid, so I believe it truly is coming from the place of just wanting to help families in any way possible, even if it means finding more aid for them from other sources. While I’m not an expert on this particular program of Medi-Share, if you call one of our representatives, I’m sure they’d be happy to answer any questions. 800.772.5623.
Medi-share is not health insurance. There is no guarantee that your medical bills will be paid. If an insurance company goes under, it’s often purchased by another company, or the state takes over until the policies can be apportioned amongst other insurers. Also, insurance companies are highly regulated by the dep’t of insurance in each state, and are required to maintain financial reserves for future claims. Medi-share has none of this oversight and financial backing.
Medi-share certainly has some advantages, as outlined on their website, and it might be ‘cheaper’, but you might get what you pay for.
Before making any decisions, please read Medi-share’s guidelines on their webpage, especially parts VI, VII, VIII, and IX (http://mychristiancare.org/guidelines.aspx).
Also, here’s a couple of articles on ‘sharing plans’:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/10/22/AR2005102200046.html
http://www.uccs.edu/~ur/2006/view_article_mediawatch.php?y=mediawatch_articles&article_id=18377
A court in Kentucky recently ruled that Medi-share was not a sharing plan but was acting as an insurance plan and since it did not conform to KY dep’t of insurance regulations, was barred from operating in KY altogether. This happened just 7 months ago: http://kyhealthnews.blogspot.com/2011/03/judge-issues-permanent-injunction.html
I noticed that prescriptions are not covered. Do you know what the #1 expenditure of Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield in Iowa is? That’s right: drugs. Health insurance companies aren’t nearly as profitable (especially mutual ones like Wellmark where the policyholders actually own the company) as pharmaceutical companies. That’s where the money is, and that’s one of the main reasons health care costs continue to rise at unsustainable levels.
Finally, I’d like to hear a response to the question raised above regarding fee negotiation. Insurance companiesoften negotiate much lower fees from health providers than what a ‘retail’ person would pay if they had no insurance…you’ll often see it on your medical bills, and the discounts can be huge! Does Medi-share receive these discounts?
The name of the game is due diligence!
Hi Tom,
Medi-Share does degotiate discounts. Medi-Share is a part of a large Preferred Provider Organization that also has discounts for members who use providers within the network. Members can also nominate their own physicians to be considered as part of the network. Some of those discounts even apply toward routine care. One of the things that is unique about Medi-Share is that we do the negotiating for you. A lot of other similar organizations ask you to do the negotiating yourself. Members also recieve a prescription discount card. Depending on the case, presciptions can be eligible for sharing up to 6-month.
If you have any questions about discounts, prescriptions or the program in general, please feel free to call one of our Representatives at 1-800-772-5623.
How does this compare to Christian Healthcare Ministries?
I’d like to chime in on a few things about healthcare in general to put many items in perspective. Have not tried Medi-share but might be interested in the future if I go self employed. While Christian organizations should attempt to be timely when paying, keep in mind that hospitals collect less than 30% of their fees at time of service. And for health charges that go to collections, less than half of the payments are made. This shows that the insurance companies slow pay for a reason – it reduces the overall payments. I’m not defending that practice, but simply highlighting what happens.
And even if Medi-share’s payment time is almost 90 days, everybody assumes that the healthcare provider is timely with their billing and supporting documentation – prompt coded bill, dr notes, specialist notes, labs, etc.
I went to a local doc in a box outfit for a cold, paid my copay and got my prescription. Then 2 and half years later I get a statement for an outstanding bill of $90 with payment due immediately. According to their bill, 2 months after my visit, my insurance company had paid $90 less than the remaining balance. I called the billing company and had the lady drop this charge after she realized how foolish it seemed to never hear from a company that long and finally get a bill.
As for a ‘retail customer’ pays more, I would offer this example. I knew a 55 year old gentlemen without health insurance that went to a local ER (DFW area) with kidney stone pain. His bill was $9600 but they discounted it to $1600 because of no insurance. I saw the bill so I know he didn’t make it up.
As you can see from the examples, the health industry is a strange can of worms. And you can make your proclamations about what should be covered and how a Christian business should operate, but you really need to understand this industry first because it is a mess. Not surprising considering that over 50% of it is funded by the government hydra.
To be clear, Medi-share is not an insurance program. Medi-share operates as a non-profit group and while members pay into a group fund each month, the money is never Medi-share’s money. Furthermore, Medi-share is not required to pay any bill, nor keep cash reserves on hand.If you go to http://www.newsonhealthcare.com you will see that they have reviews and articles on medi-share. I hope the above helped.
UPDATE INFO ON MEDI-SHARE:
Medi-share is indeed a unique program for providing assistance with medical care, but unlike health insurance programs this route uses blatant discrimination to prevent certain individuals from benefiting from its service. Mychristiancare.org specifically points out that only those engaging in sexual intercourse within a “Christian” marriage are allowed to join. This immediately eliminates gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from enrolling in Medi-share. The program also places limits on services it covers based upon religious beliefs and states specifically that abortions will not be covered under any circumstance.
If I submit a claim to Medi Share and it is paid, is the money I receive considered taxable income from the US Government? If not, how does the government view the money I receive from a claim? This is not normal health insurance so the money has to be reported to the government in some manner.
I recently enrolled my infant son in Medi-Share and spent A LOT of time talking to their representative before enrolling. I also, after just 4 months have terminated my membership after immensely negative experience after negative experience.
Positives: The concept of sharing each others burdens as believers. I am certainly a proponent of their lifestyle guidelines and the prayer stream, etc. Their sales rep was very patient and willing to dialogue several key points for me (HSA in-eligibility, sharing processes, etc.).
Negatives: Only have customer services reps until 2pm M-F for west coast residents. The turnaround for returned voicemails and emails was 2 days on more than 1 occasion.
The most significant concern I have is that they use non-insurance language and are very ambiguous when it comes to explaining the differences. They did not tell me up front, knowing that I was enrolling an infant, that his vaccinations and wellness visits WOULD NOT be applied towards his “Annual Family Contribution Limit” (AFCL). They have so many common fees that do not apply towards the large AFCL that if you have a $1,250 AFCL it is not a solid number to plan for. There are a couple other financial concerns about them, but I don’t mean to belabor the point.
I highly recommend that you consider the standard alternatives to health care insurance. If you are low-income then there are state program that may cost less and provide SUBSTANTIALLY better coverage. I am happy to discuss my experiences with anyone who would like to talk more about it.
Blessings,
Nathan
Nathan: We are sorry to hear about your recent Medi-Share experience. We have had unusually high call volumes lately due to our rapid growth and we’re working in several areas to make improvements to better serve our members.
In late 2011, the members voted to share in well baby care in the amount of $775 per year for the first two years of life. As a member-driven ministry, we regularly present adjustments to the program for members to consider. This addition of sharing well-baby care went into effect January 1, 2012.
We appreciate your feedback and would welcome the opportunity to address your other concerns personally. Please contact Larry Guyette, Executive Vice President/COO, at (800) 264-2562, ext. 2300 or lguyette@tccm.org.
As a ministry, we truly strive to “do everything as unto the Lord.”
We encourage anyone who has questions about Medi-Share, how it works, or our customer service standards, to visit our website at http://www.MyChristianCare.org or contact us at (800) 772-5623. We would be glad to assist you.
Medi-share may seem like, pardon the pun, a gift from God. A faith-based community of strangers banding together to help one another cover their medical costs, but enrollment does come with a hitch. Those who wish to become members must be able to prove their faith in the following ways:
Regularly attend services and actively support a ministry
Complete a Statement of Faith and have a verifiable testimony of a relationship with the Lord
Believe biblical doctrines that view the body as a pure entity and treat it as such
Not engage in sexual intercourse outside of a Christian marriage
Not use tobacco or abuse drugs or alcohol.
I’ve been a member for several years. We have never had to ask them to “share” any costs because we have been free of major illnesses and accidents, and had our baby at home (total cost came in less than $3500 for all prenatal care and birth). I am
Medi-Share claims to only pay for medically necessary procedures (nothing cosmetic, or even preventative). However, they do “share” the expense of infant circumcision if the family chooses it and has met their annual household portion (equivalent of a “deductible”). Circumcision is a cosmetic procedure, as no medical organization in the world recommends it routinely be done, and the US is the only nation that circumcises a significant percentage of infants for non-religious reasons. If it had a health benefit, Europe, Canada, Australia, etc. would still be doing it.
Many Christians now and throughout history do not see a painful cosmetic surgery on infant genitals (male or female) as a legitimate parental choice and are morally opposed to sharing in the costs.
If you are a Medi-Share member who believes that the organization should protect members’ conscience (by not asking people to share in the cost of procedures that they believe are immoral) and practice financial stewardship (by not paying for a procedure that has more complications than potential benefits), please drop them a note asking them to drop circumcision from the maternity care package. Specify that you would like the executive staff and the steering committee to see your comments. I am currently in contact with them trying to get this changed and they need to hear that I am not the only one concerned about this!
I was recently let go from my job and my employer insurance ended almost 2 months ago. I currently work from home now. I have bi-polar and AD/HD. My previous insurance broker swore that I wouldn’t be eligible for any individual private insurance because of these pre-existing conditions. This concerned me, because having suffered through an expensive broken ankle injury a couple years ago, I didn’t like the idea that my physical health wouldn’t be covered because of my mental health issues. However, I went to eheathinsurance to get quotes and I thought I would be immediately disqualified after disclosing my conditions, but surprisingly, at least 5 different companies offer insurance to people with those conditions- one even that offers a group insurance of $200 a month.
At first, I thought I wanted an insurance that would cover my psych doctor’s visits and regular visits so I wouldn’t have to go to the local community mental health center, but it didn’t seem to make financial sense NOT to go because my income is low enough that my therapist and doctor’s visit are free, the meds I get from the clinic are $5, they would have me apply for the patient assistance programs for any meds not offered through their pharmacy, and I’m in a program through my bank that’s $19.95/month and it’s like Aflac- it pays cash for catastrophic illnesses or injuries and it also reimburses $50 per drs visit up to 6 visits a year. So basically, I’m looking for additional catastrophic illness/injury coverage in case I do something like break my other ankle.
I’ve considered Medi-Share and am also looking at the other Christian cost-sharing services as well as the plan from my new insurance broker and the government’s guaranteed health insurance plan. I almost feel like just taking my chances and not getting ANY insurance, as the whole year I was covered by my employer last, I didn’t see any other doctors besides my psychiatrist and I did a mystery shop in order to get an eye exam and new contacts. I’m also considering looking for other employment with flexible hours that does have health coverage. I’m just going to pray for the best guidance on how (or if) I should be covered.
I am disappointed that no one from Medi Share, which has responded to other questions on this site, has responded to my question. It is a simple question, but maybe the people at Medi Share don’t want to answer it. Here is my question again:
“If I submit a claim to Medi Share and it is paid, is the money I receive considered taxable income from the US Government? If not, how does the government view the money I receive from a claim? This is not normal health insurance so the money has to be reported to the government in some manner.”
Hi Keith! You can apply here: http://mychristiancare.org/Medi-Share/Public_Content/Medi-Share_Online_Application.aspx
Dear Mr. Hildebrand,
The short answer to your question is no, it is not considered taxable income, but a charitable gift. Each person is able to give up to $15,000 in tax free charitable gifts each year to a single person.
When a member of Medi-Share deposits their monthly share amount, it is a voluntary donation to share another member’s eligible medical bills. When a member has an eligible medical bill, the monthly share dollars of many members are deposited in that member’s individual sharing account and a check is cut from their account to pay that medical bill.
We hope this answers your question and apologize that we did not respond sooner. If you would like someone to contact you directly to discuss this further, please let us know.
if only President Obama had not been conned into a “bi-partisan” solution… if only he had put SINGLE PAYER on the table in the beginning… if only more people had not been brainwashed and lied to… the citizens of the USA would be included with other industrialized nations which have cradle-to-grave health care provided by their combined tax-payer funded premiums…
OBAMA-CARE is a good start.
Christian Medi-share is another health care alternative that most people do not think to consider. Medi-share is not insurance; it is a caring community that shares in each others medical cost who have the same religious beliefs about the Bible. Alternative health insurance providers and Christian health providers are not all the same. Medi-share is the Biblical alternative to health insurance since 1993 and your premiums are based on age. Members make the rules at Medi-share, and bill sharing is the alternative to traditional health insurance. Premiums are called Shares and are the portion you pay per month. The Annual Household Portion (AHP) is like the deductible. Medi-share members do not share for abortion or any un-biblical practices. Medi-share is exempt from Obama’s mandated national healthcare plan as well and all of the taxes and penalties that go along with it.
No matter what your choice is, be sure you research the alternative health insurance available to ensure your needs will be met!
Something is wrong with CC Medishare. I have been a member for 7 years. Only once have they had to share any medical bills for my husband or myself and that was only for an MRI. Recently I went in for a regular mammogram and I was referred to another facility that provides a more thorough mammogram. I verified that it was in the PHCS network and had the test. I did not pay the bill since Medishare recommends that members allow them to negotiate the price. The amount I would have paid without Medishare would have been about $400. After Medishare “negotiated” the price, my bill is $747. The provider has added a penalty for being out of network and having to deal with Medishare who is unwilling to contract with them. The provider is Baylor and although they are in the PHCS network, they do not work with Medishare. When I originally joined Medishare Baylor was not a problem. When I contacted Medishare, they said even though my card says PHCS and I verified that the provider was PHCS, I am required to go online and verify that the provider is not excluded. I was already upset that I was being sent to a more sophisticated imaging center and felt that I had kept my head enough to verify the provider was PHCS. Now I have to pay $347 more due to being part of a “sharing” ministry and paying $450 a month for the privilege.
Hi Cindy,
I am sorry about the difficulties you’ve had with Baylor. Baylor is not excluding Christian Care Ministry because they have had issues with us. They are excluding us because we will not sign their contract. Baylor has their own contract that they require any regular insurance company to sign, and they asked Christian Care Ministry to sign it as well. We cannot because Medi-Share is not insurance and the wording would insinuate that we are an insurance company. However, other larger insurance plans have been exluded from Baylor as well, such as Cigna. We have asked Baylor to have another contract with revised wording, but they are unwilling to modify.We have talked several times with PHCS in regard to this and they are also unable to budge Baylor on the issue.
We apologize for the inconvenience you have faced and would love to discuss this with you further. Please call Member Services at 800.264.2562.
Just another cautionary tale: We’ve been medishare members for several months now and prior to that we were members of Samaritan Ministries. I never had to submit a single claim to either company up until about a month ago. I went to see my dr. following a free, health fair pap test and blood work. I presented her my normal results and spoke with her about my irregular, heavy periods. She and I discussed the pros and cons of using birth control to deal with that, and that was the end of the visit. She billed it as a regular office visit, not a physical, since she already had my results. But only because the word “contraceptive” was mentioned on the bill, Medishare denied it flat-out. I never expected them to pay for a physical, or a birth control Rx if I had decided to go that route (still on the fence). Thankfully my dr is amazing and she took my bill for that visit from the billed rate of $130 down to her self-pay rate of $75 so I only owe her the remaining $45 (after the $35 office visit fee). The fact that Medishare wouldn’t even cover a CONVERSATION with my dr, because birth control was mentioned, just blows my mind. I am a monogamous, married woman, trying to manage a medical condition. Yet they are making me feel like something “less” because I dared to even consider the possibility of using birth control.
Medishare is IMO a legalistic, bureaucratic, and wholly un-Christlike organization and I cannot cancel my membership fast enough.
Hi Emily<
We would love to have one of our Medi-Share representatives contact you to discuss this matter further. It is true that the members have voted to not share in the cost of birth control, however, the inclusion of that subject during a doctor’s visit in no way would preclude sharing of that visit. It is possible that the visit was not shareable as it was considered routine, or there was not a diagnosis. However, because you mention that you have never had to use Medi-Share before, it is likely that the visit cost was under her individual member responsibility or annual household portion (depending on which program she participates in), and therefore, not shareable. Regardless of why it was not shareable, we want to get to the bottom of this matter and correct any miscommunication on our part.
Emily, you can contact our Director of Member Services by email at sfrancisco@tccm.org or call (800) 264-2562.
Medi-share is indeed a unique program for providing assistance with medical care, but unlike health insurance programs this route uses blatant discrimination to prevent certain individuals from benefiting from its service. Mychristiancare.org specifically points out that only those engaging in sexual intercourse within a “Christian” marriage are allowed to join. This immediately eliminates gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from enrolling in Medi-share. The program also places limits on services it covers based upon religious beliefs and states specifically that abortions will not be covered under any circumstance.
To be clear, Medi-share is not an insurance program. Medi-share operates as a non-profit group and while members pay into a group fund each month, the money is never Medi-share’s money. Furthermore, Medi-share is not required to pay any bill, nor keep cash reserves on hand.
Medi-Share is also mentioned in these articles as well .
http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/the-ins-and-outs-of-medi-share/
http://www.facebook.com/NewsOnHC
I had Medi-Share for a year – from 2011-2012. I would NOT recommend it to anyone. I imagine that it would be fine if you are in PERFECT health and you don’t anticipate any upcoming health issues (who anticipates them anyway?) but otherwise, your best bet is to go elsewhere.
First of all, it is correct that it is NOT insurance. It acts much in the same way insurance acts in terms of getting ‘accepted’ into it, copays, a monthly ‘premium’, etc. but it was a NIGHTMARE to navigate and EXTREMELY UNuser friendly. If you opt to go with them, prepare to have the equivalent of time to a part-time job to manage it.
For starters, GOOD LUCK getting anyone on the phone to talk to with relative ease. I spent accumulated hours on the phone on hold ‘waiting’ to get the next available person to help me, and the recording comes on every few minutes encouraging you to leave a message for a return call (AGAIN – GOOD LUCK WITH THAT).
It is somewhat confusing – you have the entity of MEDI-SHARE and then you deal with American Christian Credit Union where your monthly payment actually goes when you submit your payment each month. It was frustrating to have figure out – do I call Medishare? Do I call ACCU? You are also given two separate id numbers – a household # for Medishare and a Member 3 for ACCU.
In the event you have to go to the doctor for something, they make good and sure it wasn’t even remotely associated with something that might have an inkling of a pre-existing condition (again, you’re set if you are in absolute perfect health). An issue came up for me concerning heart palpitations and they tracked back to 2009 and a Dr.’s notes that stated heart palpitations. Those were in relation to a thyroid issue and medication issue – the recent ones while on MediShare were entirely different and quite scary but I did not have the time, energy or resources at that time to pursue arguing that denial of coverage.
That leads me to the paperwork – I was getting literature from Medishare, my monthly statements from the Credit Union and then if you went to the dr. they would send you a PACKET of papers to fill-out/sign to return to perform a clinical/chart review (this is where they would ‘find’ something linking back to a pre-existing and deny any coverage…) They had to determine eligibility EVERY TIME you went to the doctor. I felt I needed a personal secretary to keep up with all the correspondence.
Finally, where the rubber meets the road -
I COMPLETELY understand the concept of the Acts church. I GET the idea of sharing all we have with our brothers and sisters to help. I am glad to do it. But here’s the thing – I paid approx. $420/mth for our family. I look back now, and had I just put that money in my own pocket for the year – I wouldn’t be in the boat I am in now. I saw on my statements where $ went out a few times to other members and that is fine. I get it.
But now – since they really did not cover much at all that we saw doctors for during that time period, we accrued over $4000.00 in medical bills. They have begun rolling in since this summer. We were able to exhaust our resources to pay about half of that off, but still have $2011 to go.
My last statement from the ACCU from Aug-Sept. shows that I still have $400+ sitting there in my account. I called today to ask if I could have that refunded back to me to go towards my own medical bills accumulated during my time with MediShare. Since the money was for July’s payment (and we were technically still members) no, they can not refund the money. This is an injustice, in my opinion.
DO NOT USE MEDISHARE!!!!!!!!!! It is a pain to deal with and in the end, not beneficial at all if you NEED to use it.
My husband and I are self-employed Christian counselors. We have run the gamut of providers – including my experience with another carrier who, after 12 years of claim-free premium payments, nearly doubled my premium following a gall bladder removal! After being accepted by Medishare, three of our family of 4 were considered to be outside the healthy weight levels (which are generous by comparison). We were assigned a coach who checked in with us, prayed with us and monitored, encouraged and helped us choose a more healthy lifestyle – something which we sincerely love and are on board with, we just needed that extra push! We all lost weight, became more active and my husband’s blood pressure was reduced and our then 16 yr old daughter’s esteem grew. I think it is valid to weigh in and do the lab work annually so that any potential health issue can be addressed early. In our experience, the claims we have had with Medishare have been covered, although it is a bit slow. Also, our elder daughter was not accepted by her university as being covered and she’s double-insured in order to meet the health care requirements of her school. In all, if you are proactive and care for yourself, the savings can be very worthwhile and its good to have Christians banded together for the good of the entire body!
I just signed up with medi-share, and not Samaritan, simply because Samaritan has a sola scriptura profession requirement I could not profess. Medi-share’s profession of faith is within mine, so, so far so good.
Reviewing what complaints I found here, it is clear the medi-share is not for them, and plans that would include the complainants would not be for me. All medi-share is merely a revival of the mutual aid networks that were universal in the 19th century, of which today the remnants are the Elks and Shriners, etc. This is nothing new. Those entities were killed off by “free health care” to wide swathes of society. Now that “free” is killing off “health care” we are seeing a renaissance of these societies.
I bet with direct payment these societies will begin to fund basic research on health care which will result in real new medicine, and open-sourced discoveries. This may be the beginning of a renaissance in medicine in USA.
I have been member with the Medishare for over 2 yrs. I have worked with health coach to help me get my weight down that I need to by 15 lbs. I have joined gym, tried to eat right and done the suggestions but it has not helped me loose weight. Today I was told that since I have not been able to get to the guideline where they want me to be I will be dropped from the program. My husband and kids can stay on the program. We are going to drop them because of this. I have tried my hardest but if I can’t get to where they say I should be it seems like punishment. Would they tell the people who have other sickness that they need to get rid of that cancer or what not or we will drop you?
Perhaps you can try a different weight loss approach. I lost 22 pounds in 4 months by limiting carbs and limiting fat intake plus walking 25 minutes per day. I was not deprived and am in very good health according to blood tests. Being fully committed to weight loss will make it successful. It will also lower your medical bills. Medishare is a place for relatively healthy folks who need insurance in case of a catastrophic event. That is why I am a member. I dont use them to manage everyday events like the flu or annual sinus infection. I just pay the doctor and count it as a cost of doing business. Its not worth it to submit a $75 bill to Medishare for reimbursement.
Thanks Bob – for the article and for the comments here.
I find the whole concept of medishare interesting and I think it’s worthwhile – if your membership motivation is really driven by- “true love/care/hope for others”, not purely for monetary/financial reasons.
As a Christian (I’m not perfect – but I try each day to be a better follower) – my only feedback to Medishare is – if not there already – provide an option for members to give a portion of their own share to “non-christians” medical bills. I feel that is part of our Christian duty as well – to love ‘everyone’ (not just Christians).
I understand there will be an administration overhead for medishare – however it can be simplified to cover ‘up to a fixed amount or % of medical cost’ and cover for only those who really can’t afford insurance or are not financially stable to cover their own medical costs (basically – those in ‘real’ need for help).
I know that medishare may not classify themselves as an outreach or a ‘ministry’ christian group however – the concept – is a ‘ministry’ in its own right as it is advocating ‘good christian living/lifestyle’.
I like the idea that medishare is founded upon – and as other comments in this site has mentioned – it may not be a new thing – but is something worth living out in our daily lives. That is – “to give/share more”.
with prayers.
SA
I am just exploring some healthcare options. We recently adopted our second child from China. We have felt that this is what God has called us to do. Our most recent son is 11 years old and has been diagnosed with Hep. B. We also have two biological girls and a son from Chna all very healthy. Would this healthcare not be for us because of our sons pre existing condition of Hep B?
Angie
Hi Angie,
Praise God on your recent adoption! It’s such a great testimony of the gospel at work. I have a post in this thread somewhere, many months back, and I don’t know precisely how Medi-Share would treat your son’s hep b, but I can tell you that recent changes to the health insurance market have made it so that your son cannot be denied health insurance with a traditional carrier in your state. It would probably make sense to at least consider the actual insurance options available to you.
I enrolled my son and had a negative experience. As an employee benefits consultant in CA I am very familiar with the pros and cons of Medi-Share vs. the traditional carriers here and would be happy to try and help you if you have any further questions or would just like help processing some of the options that are probably available in your state.
Nathan
Nathan@lundyinsurance.com
Angie, This website has articles on Medi-Share that may help, This is part of one of the articles and Links to others:Medi-share is indeed a unique program for providing assistance with medical care, but unlike health insurance programs this route uses blatant discrimination to prevent certain individuals from benefiting from its service. Mychristiancare.org specifically points out that only those engaging in sexual intercourse within a “Christian” marriage are allowed to join. This immediately eliminates gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from enrolling in Medi-share. The program also places limits on services it covers based upon religious beliefs and states specifically that abortions will not be covered under any circumstance.
To be clear, Medi-share is not an insurance program. Medi-share operates as a non-profit group and while members pay into a group fund each month, the money is never Medi-share’s money. Furthermore, Medi-share is not required to pay any bill, nor keep cash reserves on hand.
These are important Questions to ask when talking to someone from Mei-Share.
Is Medi-Share Health Insurance
Will I be covered if Medi-share runs out of money
Are pre existing conditions covered/Shared
Is Autism covered/Shared
If I smoke tobacco am I covered/Shared
Out of the monthly amount that I pay to Medi-share each month what percentage goes to administrative cost and how much goes towards paying other believers medical bills.
What kind of accountability is in place to make sure medical bills are being paid by Medi-share on time each month
If this is a Christian ministry will you tell me what administrative personnel like the president of Medi-Share makes per year
Do the people that sell me Medi-Share make a percentage of money for selling me the Medi-Share program, and if so could that be looked at as a conflict of interest
Do I have two be a believer in Jesus Christ in order to be in this program
Does Medi-share have a board of directors, and if so who are they
Is Medi-Share in any legal battles right now
Can I be a Mormon and have Medi-Share
Who is the founder of Medi-Share
How many people drop off of Medi-Share each Year/Month
How Does MediShare Work
Medi-Share is also mentioned in these articles as well .
http://www.facebook.com/NewsOnHC
1. http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/healthcare-bill-exemption/
2. http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/top-alternative-health-insurance-providers/
3.http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/medi-share-an-alternative-to-traditional-health-insurance/
4.http://www.newsonhealthcare.com/medi-share-qa/
Debating putting our daughter on this so we can get rid of the family policy at my husband’s work. Price going up 22 percent this year and the deductible doubling to $4000.00 a person. $14,067 a year for the family plan. She’s 19 and in college. Her college doesn’t require health insurance like someone mentioned above. My husband is on PT disability through Ohio BWC and talk about a hassle getting bills paid. I guess if I can deal with them, I can handle anything.
We changed over from Blue Cross after hearing the advertisements about Christian medical sharing. What a mistake! Medishareamericaschristiancu never paid one bill in 7 months. They exclude everything by calling it a “pure existing condition” When we called to discuss or complain about them never covering anything, we were told that we are not an insurance company and are not bound by the insurance laws in my state. BEWARE of this company! DO NOT change your insurance to this company if you want your claims paid!
We are having a similar issue and are leaving MediShares. What a waste of money.
I don’t normally go out of my way to review things but man I feel like people need to be a bit warned about joining. I guess I did not do my research on the cons before I joined. I had the same experience with the “pre-existing condition” I went to the doctor to get help for something that I had NEVER been to see a doctor about before nor ever had any diagnosis. Medi-Share denied my claim … well NOW I have a pre-existing condition because I’ve been to the doctor and have something wrong with me. So… I sucked it up, switched to traditional insurance, and am paying my own bills for 12 months til the new one will cover it. Just doesn’t feel fair – but I guess life isn’t fair
Hope you all reading this will not make the same mistake.
I have been a member of Medi-Share for just over a year. This year I had eye issue for which I needed an important, even urgent procedure done, but I was told that I needed to be “pre-qualified” in order to be covered. I couldn’t believe the run around I am getting, each phone conversation followed by a “God bless you.” After submitting and re-submitting paperwork, I was told that I didn’t qualify because of a cataract surgery that I had over 10 years ago that was related to my current eye problem. While the doctor tells me that there is a slightly increased risk after cataract surgery for the condition I now have, it is not directly related. I am getting nowhere. If this is such a Christian organizatoin, why are they trying to get out of paying for a procedure that is clearly legitimate? I’m done with Medi-share. Traditional insurance, here I come.
We’ve had MediShares for about 8 months and are going are not going to make anymore premium payments. Based on our experience, here’s what you can expect:
1. Pay your premium (sorry, “Monthly Share”)
2. Go to the doctor for a legitimate issue.
3. Wait for MediShares to send you a letter saying ” We are reviewing it.”
4. Wait for MediShares to send you a medical release to send to ALL providers you’ve seen in the last 7 years. Wait some more.
5. Fill out a “Needs Notification” form for MediShares.
6. Wait for MediShares to send you their decision, which for us is ALWAYS declined. For example, declined because it’s “related” to a pre-existing condition, which they somehow find a way to relate everything to a pre-existing condition.
7. Call MediShares to find out why it was declined. Hold for 30-45 minutes with no option to leave a voicemail, and finally hang up. Repeat three or four times.
8. Send an email to MediShares. Receive no response.
9. Receive late notices from service providers.
10. Pay your own medical bill.
In a nutshell, for us it involves a lot of paperwork everytime we go to the doctor, frustration at not being able to speak with someone at MediShares, and monthly payments going down the toilet.
Are we just so ingrained as a society to find fault with everyone but ourselves? It’s the government’s fault, but who voted them into office? It’s the police officer entrapping me by catching me speeding on my way to work today, though I drive the same speed every day? It’s my healthcare plan being unwilling to help me with bills, the bills they told you from the very start might not be shared. Really? Step up please and accept some accountability.
I’m a member of Medishare. I have been for a little over a year. Why did I choose Medishare; for some of the same reasons most of us do. 1) It’s exclusive to Christians, and unlike some of the other sharing ministries, Medishare even says no to Mormons even though the Mormons I know all identify themselves as Christian believers. 2) It gets me out of the Obamacare system and 3) the cost.
I found out about Medishare from one the very employees that works there. He knew my struggle with insurance. I had been with an insurance plan that was charging $1164 every month for my family with a deductible of $5000. The plan I had was horrible. There were limitations, exclusions, fine print and long waits. My wife had an emergency room visit four years ago and it took our insurance company over a year to resolve their end of the deal. Twelve months of “processing for eligibility” while bill collectors called my house and damaged my credit.
With Medishare, my family pays just under $500 a month for a deductible of $1250. I saved just under $8,000 in one year just from premiums. Believe me, my family has been blessed with those savings.
The catch with Medishare? Pre-existing conditions aren’t shared right away, and sometimes never. But the catch goes hand-in-hand with the grace of Medishare because there is no fine print. When my family was approved for Medishare, we were told in writing that the ministry would not share the medical bills related to my youngest child’s asthma or my wife’s MS. We knew that before we ever committed to pay our first month premium. In fact, we had to sign a form acknowledging that we knew about the limitations before Medishare would even let us join. Even with the exclusions, the choice was a no-brainer. We have been wise with our financial savings over traditional insurance and we put our trust in the Lord.
As for timing – one of my children broke his finger two months into Medishare. The bills were processed and discounted and examined for eligibility and then paid within 3 months of the incident. I never received a collection letter and never had any doubt about the status of my bill. I called the member service area and consistently received either live support, or a callback within 48 hours. Every associate I have talked to at Medishare is friendly and engaged. They’re Christians, just like you or me.
I read these posts about people being surprised about the ineligibility of the bills. Stop it! You knew going in, you signed the same forms I did saying you acknowledged the possibility of some limitations for certain conditions. Read what you sign, that’s common sense. If you’re unsure, call somebody at Medishare and ask before you join. My representative, the one who turned me on to Medishare, gave me direct answers to my questions and reminded me on more than one occasion about the medical limitations on my families pre-existing conditions. My representative answered every call, every voicemail and every email I ever sent and as he would remind me, he’s just one of many all willing to do the same thing.
If you’re unsure about Medishare, don’t rely on others to do your thinking for you. Call Medishare and speak to someone who can give you the facts and allow you to decide what’s right for your health.
God Bless!
Thanks for sharing your experience and opinions. Like you say, everything is spelled out pretty clear when you sign up. Cost are kept low by eliminating the debauchery of some peoples lives. I love helping other people with their costs, knowing what I am paying for and most importantly what I’m not. Some of the whining on here reflects more of how our society demands someone else pay for our bad choices.
John, it appears Mike was referring more to the poor service, not the exclusions. Even so, like he and many others have said, it seems like MediShare can relate everything to a pre-existing issue. For example, let’s say I went to the doctor today for a stomach ache and he were to tell me I have an ulcer ( a new condition). MediShare could likely decline coverage if I had seen a doctor three years ago for a stomach ache, claiming my current visit was related to a pre-existing condition. Clearly my new condition is a new condition and not pre-existing, and regular insurance would never decline it. But MediShare can. In this regard, it is not clear up front what will be covered and what will not be covered because virtually anything can be “related” to a pre-existing condition. That is a dangerous proposition. I know MediShare “is not insurance,” but based on many reviews I’ve been reading, MediShare seems to take a pretty liberal definition of “related to pre-existing condition.”
We are saddened to hear that Mike, who posted on 2/2 was not able to speak with a representative who may be able to better address the specifics of his needs and help him determine whether his bills are eligible for the Extra Blessings program. Mike, if you would like to further discuss, please call our director of member services, Sheila Francisco, at (800) 264-2562, ext. 2290. We do strive to answer all calls in a timely manner and have an automated call back system when we are experiencing high call volume. Finally, it’s important to note that there is an appeal process for members who disagree with bill-sharing decisions. The member’s appeal goes before a seven -member, appeal Panel, made up of other Medi-Share members, for determination. Mike, we are here to serve you and would appreciate the opportunity to address your concerns personally. Sheila will be on the lookout for your call.
In order to keep the costs as low as possible, there are some limits to what is shareable. These limits are determined by Medi-Share members who vote on important guideline issues once or twice a year. During the application process, an applicant is advised of specific conditions that they may have that members have voted not to share.
Wow! I just read all of the posts for the past 4 years, and now I’m having second thoughts. I was ready to sign up, but medi-share may be more trouble than its worth. Rats!
Ugh – I am disgusted by what I am reading in these posts. Yes, I am a Christian with no health insurance but no, I don’t want to have anything to do with this discriminatory health plan. What would Jesus do? NOT THIS.
“only those engaging in sexual intercourse within a “Christian” marriage are allowed to join. This immediately eliminates gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals from enrolling in Medi-share. The program also places limits on services it covers based upon religious beliefs and states specifically that abortions will not be covered under any circumstance.”
Good. The reason I am considering joining this program is so I won’t be forced to pay for someone’s abortifacients as is mandated under Obamacare. I look at Medishare as a catastrophic plan, not an insurance plan. I will be so glad to get away from Obamacare and all it’s entanglements. BTW, no one is entitled to cradle to grave healthcare. That is what is wrong with this society. They expect something for nothing. I am ashamed of all the “Christians” who support politicians who vote for anti-biblical bills, especially abortion and homosexuality. Jesus was forgiving, but he also made his view clear on the value of a child/life and homosexuality. I will be proud to join a medical savings account plan with fellow Christians who believe as I do.
I thought that your article was pretty all around true and covered the bad and the good but I would definitely not recommend Medi-Share unless you are going to remain healthy forever and never plan on ever having any health issues arrive. My experience was that Medi-Share really will not cover a whole lot and can find many ways to deny covering things. I gave it a shot with high hopes, but got a bit burned.
Does anyone know if the cover dental or vision?
Emily,
I am the marketing coordinator for Christian Care. We do not share in routine dental or vision, according to our member voted guidelines, unless in the case of an accident-related emergency. Hope that answers your question for you. Feel free to check out our guidelines here: http://mychristiancare.org/guidelines.aspx
I am going to post my CURRENT, yet-to-be-resolved experience with MediShare and a denial for a condition MediShare claims was “related to a pre-existing condition.” I will follow with an update so those of you who exploring MediShare as an option can get a fair review.
Some reviewers have criticized the negative reviews, particularly those complaining about being denied for pre-existing conditions. Such reviewers claim these upset individuals “should have known” pre-existing conditions would be declined. However, a careful reading of many such complaints will show these individuals are NOT complaining that their pre-existing conditions were denied; they are complaining because MediShare seems to deny claims, citing “related to pre-existing condition,” when their new condition was in fact not related. Of course MediShare should deny claims when they are legitimately related to a pre-existing condition – or the premiums (“monthly shares”) would skyrocket. However, if someone receives a new diagnosis of melanoma, it would not be fair (or ethical) for MediShare to deny treatment for my new condition based on a routine dermatology check-up two years ago, or a mole removal five years ago, or acne diagnosis ten years ago. But the question is, COULD they? After all, they are “not insurance” and have a right not to cover anything. They tell you that right on their web site. My husband worries about that – he has had moles removed in the past as a preventative measure. None of the moles were cancerous. So what if, God forbid, he was diagnosed with melanoma? Would MediShare decline any treatment claiming it is “related to a pre-existing condition?” My latest experience will undoubtedly help to answer that question for me.
Let me share my latest experience with MediShare: I have been to the doctor in the past for gluten-intolerance, which means I cannot eat gluten. Upon applying, MediShare informed me that they won’t cover treatments related to this condition, which I completely understand. Recently I went to the doctor for stomach issues. I was diagnosed with SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth), a new condition completely unrelated to gluten intolerance. MediShare denied my doctor visit, claiming it was “related to a pre-existing condition.” I was stunned and called them for an explanation. They told me to go through the appeals process. I informed my doctor, and he too was surprised it was declined in the first place. He wrote MediShare a letter clarifying that SIBO was a NEW diagnoses unrelated to any pre-existing condition. I will keep you posted after it goes through the appeals process.
Important:When Medi-Share is Reviewed we find that it may be an alternative to health insurance, but we want to make this very clear IT IS NOT HEALTH INSURANCE. Furthermore, Medi-share is not required to pay any bill, nor keep cash reserves on hand.