Health Care Sharing Ministry: Questions to Ask Before You Enroll

WeShare Health Care Sharing Ministry Questions to Ask Before You Enroll

Choosing a health care sharing ministry is a significant decision that moves you away from the corporate insurance model and into a community-focused, faith-based approach to medical expenses. Since this is a voluntary program rather than a legal contract, you need to be certain the program you choose has the infrastructure to support your family.

As you reach the final stage of your research, here are five critical questions to ask before you submit your application.

1. Does the Ministry Have a Reliable Provider Network?

One of the primary benefits of a top-tier health care sharing ministry is the ability to see the doctors you already know and trust. Unlike programs that require you to negotiate as a self-paying patient, WeShare members have access to the PHCS® PPO Network, the largest network of any sharing ministry.

  • Extensive Access: Members can choose from over 1.2 million doctors, hospitals, and speciality providers.
  • Proximity: More than 96% of Americans live within 20 miles of a network provider.
  • Convenience: Through partnerships with CVS Caremark™ and CVS MinuteClinic®, members have access to on-demand care at more than 1,100 urgent care locations.

2. How Are the Monthly and Annual Costs Structured?

In a health care sharing ministry, you do not pay premiums; instead, you contribute a Monthly Contribution Amount (MCA). To ensure the program fits your budget, you must understand how your out-of-pocket responsibility is calculated.

  • Annual Member Care Share (AMCS): This is the amount you commit to paying your provider before your medical needs become eligible for sharing.
  • Flexible Tiers: WeShare offers five different contribution structures. For individuals, the AMCS ranges from $1,000 to $12,000.
  • Full Sharing: After the AMCS is met for the calendar year, all eligible medical costs are shared at 100% by the community.

3. What Are the Fees for Routine Office Visits?

To avoid surprise costs, look for a program that uses transparent consultation fees rather than complex co-insurance percentages. With a WeShare membership, these fees are affordable and easy to understand:

Service TypeConsultation Fee
Amwell Virtual Urgent Care$0 Fee
CVS MinuteClinic®$10 Fee
Primary Care Provider (PCP)$25 Fee
Specialist Office Visit$75 Fee

Crucially, these fees are not subject to the AMCS, making routine care accessible from day one.

4. Does the Program Support My Holistic Health?

A comprehensive healthcare sharing program should provide value even when you aren’t sick. WeShare includes a Wellness Perks package valued at $1,000 to help you proactively manage your mind, body, and spirit.

  • Mental Wellness: Members receive up to 10 online therapy sessions per year through BetterHelp at no additional cost.
  • Physical Fitness: Access customized workouts via FitBod or join over 12,700 gyms through Active&Fit Direct for a discounted monthly rate.
  • Spiritual Growth: Membership includes a subscription to RightNow Media, the world’s largest library of biblical video resources.

5. Is the Legal Status and Disclaimer Clear?

A reputable ministry will always be transparent in stating that they are not insurance and therefore do not operate according to insurance guidelines. WeShare is a healthcare sharing program that facilitates voluntary member-to-member sharing rooted in shared values of compassion, generosity and mutual care.

Final Decision Checklist

If you can answer “Yes” to the following, you’ve likely found the right fit:

  • uncheckedDoes the Monthly Contribution Amount (MCA) fit my budget?
  • uncheckedIs my preferred doctor in the PHCS PPO network?
  • uncheckedDo I agree with the Statement of Shared Beliefs?

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Choosing a health care sharing ministry is a personal decision, but it should not feel confusing. When you understand the provider network, MCA, AMCS, consultation fees, wellness resources, and legal status, you can enroll with more confidence.

WeShare is designed for individuals and families who want practical access to care, clear cost structures, and a community-centered way to help share eligible medical bills. When you’re ready, review your options and choose the WeShare program that fits your household best.

Contributing Author

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