Health cost sharing has grown in popularity over the last few decades, especially among Christians looking for an alternative to traditional health insurance. Because of this, there are often misunderstandings about what it is and how it works.
At Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), we prioritize transparency about who we are and how we operate. Below, we’re tackling some of the most common myths we hear about health cost sharing to set the record straight.
Myth 1: “There’s no assurance that health cost sharing ministries will reimburse you”
Many don’t really know how health cost sharing works—creating suspicion about the approach in general. Anyone enrolling in CHM needs to fully understand our sharing process and requirements so they’re empowered throughout any bill submissions.
Since 1981, Christian Healthcare Ministries has satisfied 100% of all eligible medical bills. CHM follows clear, written Guidelines that define what kind of medical bills are qualified for sharing. Any bill that meets these requirements will be shared after a member’s Personal Responsibility (PR) amount has been met.
Our Guidelines are available before joining so you can determine if CHM is the right fit for your needs. These rules exist to protect our members and steward the ministry’s resources responsibly. Members can also reach out to CHM directly with questions regarding their bill submissions.
Every month, members contribute a fixed amount to the ministry that is used to satisfy the health expenses of fellow Christians. Reimbursing eligible bills has been and continues to be a time-honored tradition for over 40 years at CHM.
Myth 2: “Health cost sharing ministries are unreliable”
This myth is often spread by people who have been misled or hurt by disreputable health cost sharing organizations. Before joining any health insurance alternative, it’s always best to research the company thoroughly to make a wise decision.
CHM is the nation’s first and longest-serving health cost sharing ministry. Below are some of the ways we’ve established accountability and transparency as a ministry:
- Third-party independent accreditation through Demotech
- Better Business accredited charity since 2013
- Nationally endorsed by The Ramsey Show
- Yearly audits through an independent accounting firm
Likewise, our CHM Gold, CHM Silver, CHM Bronze, and CHM SeniorShare™ programs are also designed to be transparent and understandable. Things like monthly contributions, PR amounts, and sharing limits are all disclosed up front before joining.
Myth 3: “Health cost sharing ministries are overly strict”
Because many health cost sharing organizations abide by faith-based rules and ethics, they’ve often been misjudged by skeptics and critics alike. While thoroughly Christian, CHM does not belong to a specific denomination, church, or tradition that informs our rules for sharing.
As a non-profit ministry, our only spiritual requirements at enrollment are that members affirm their faith in Christ and commit to living a biblical lifestyle as outlined in our Statement of Beliefs. Our ministry honors the call of Galatians 6:2 to help Christians “bear one another’s burdens” through sharing medical bills.
Every defining rule from our Guidelines aims at providing the best experience for all Christians. Members retain full ability to choose their certified healthcare providers, make medical decisions with their doctors, and manage their own healthcare journey. Having a shared foundation of faith allows the ministry to establish what medical care we will and won’t share for.
Myth 4: “Health cost sharing only works for the young and healthy”
CHM welcomes members of all ages and health histories. While pre-existing conditions are handled differently than new medical issues, CHM offers helpful options for those in need. CHM Gold includes a scheduled sharing option for maintained pre-existing conditions, and CHM Give provides a way for members to receive support for eligible needs through voluntary donations from fellow members.
Programs like CHM SeniorShare™ are specifically designed for members age 65 and older to work alongside Medicare. Because Medicare only pays for 80% of medical bill costs, SeniorShare™ takes care of the remaining 20%; saving retirees lots of money in the long run.
For larger or more complex medical needs, CHM has a Complete Surgical Care Solution which helps members find quality surgeons, secure major discounts, and arrange any needed travel accommodations.
CHM also offers a Cancer Care Solution. It’s designed to simplify the treatment process, offer spiritual encouragement, save money, and get you the right care with the right provider. This makes health cost sharing an option not just for the young or those with a clean bill of health.
Myth 5: “Health cost sharing ministries can’t help you with prescriptions”
CHM shares eligible, incident-related prescription medications according to program Guidelines. While the initial eligible 90-day prescription supply can be shared for, members also have access to CHM’s Prescription Care Solution after the first 90 days. This connects members to different tools to help find coupons, generic brands, and the cheapest prices near you.
Additionally, members have access to our Virtual Care Solution through HealthTap, making it easier to receive primary care and get a prescription for many common needs without an in-person appointment.
CHM’s financial and spiritual support isn’t a myth
While lots of misinformation about health cost sharing exists, there are real reasons why so many Christians trust it as a viable solution. For singles, families, and retirees, CHM’s affordable programs are a great alternative to health insurance. If you want to see how our ministry works practically for believers like you, check out our member stories or join CHM today!
