Imagine Rachel, a mom of three who always seems to be juggling something — work deadlines, school drop-offs, soccer practice, and the occasional late-night cough. Life is full, and while she’s grateful for it, she often wonders what would happen if a real medical need came up. Could her family afford it? Would the system make things harder than they already are?
More and more families in Rachel’s position are turning to health care sharing programs — a community-based way of handling medical needs that offers simplicity, support, and peace of mind.
What Are Health Care Sharing Programs?
At their heart, health care sharing programs are about people helping people. Instead of paying into a complicated system, members make a set monthly contribution which is then shared to support another member’s eligible medical needs.
These programs are usually operated by nonprofit, faith-driven organizations, like WeShare by UHSM. The focus isn’t on profit, but on community care. Members often support each other not only financially, but also through encouragement, prayer, and shared values.
How Does It Work?
Each program has two main parts:
- Monthly Contributions: What every member gives each month to be part of the sharing community.
- Annual Member Care Share (AMCS): The set amount a member pays out-of-pocket before their needs are eligible for sharing.
Once the AMCS is met, the wider community shares the remaining eligible expenses. This makes the process predictable and clear – no hidden fine print, no surprise charges.
For Rachel, that means peace of mind. If her son sprains an ankle during his soccer game, she won’t feel alone. She’ll be able to schedule an affordable visit to her primary care provider with a simple consultation fee. If the bills go beyond that, WeShare will take a look at the bills from her provider. Once she’s met her Annual Member Care Share (AMCS) – the portion she’s responsible for each year – the wider community steps in, using their contributions to help share the cost wherever eligible.
Instead of a confusing maze of paperwork, Rachel experiences a straightforward process that reminds her she’s part of something larger: a community committed to carrying one another’s burdens.
What’s Included in Programs Like WeShare?
Christian health care sharing programs vary, but WeShare’s offerings show the kinds of resources members can expect:
- Preventive care: Annual physicals and lab work shared at 100%
- Everyday care: $25 primary care visits, $10 CVS MinuteClinic visits, and 24/7 telehealth at no extra cost
- Specialist and urgent care: Affordable, transparent consultation fees for specialists and urgent needs
- Wellness perks: Fitness apps, nutrition resources, and access to HelloFresh, Noom, and Active&Fit
- Mental health: Up to 10 counseling sessions a year through BetterHelp at no cost, plus discounted in-person options
- Pharmacy savings: Negotiated rates through CVS Caremark for generic and brand prescriptions
These features mean members aren’t just cared for in emergencies; they also have tools to stay healthy day to day.
Why People Choose Health Care Sharing Programs
Families like Rachel’s are drawn to this model for many reasons:
- Affordability: Monthly contributions are often lower than traditional health costs.
- Simplicity: Clear guidelines replace hidden fine print.
- Shared Values: Many programs are grounded in Christian principles of caring for others.
- Holistic Support: Wellness perks often include preventive care, telemedicine, nutrition programs, and mental health resources.
A Community-First Approach to Health
Rachel’s story represents the very real needs of thousands of families who have found a different way to approach their healthcare journey. Health care sharing programs aren’t the right fit for everyone, but for those who value affordability, simplicity, and community, they can provide peace of mind in uncertain times.
If this approach to health and wellness resonates with you, take a closer look at WeShare’s programs and discover how a supportive, faith-driven community can walk with you in your health journey.
