How to compare options – If you’ve been scrolling through different health share programs, knowing how to compare them is the only way to move forward without second-guessing yourself. It helps to start with a clear picture of what these programs actually are.
A healthcare sharing ministry (HCSM) like WeShare isn’t an insurance company; it’s a non-profit organization that facilitates a community where members share a common set of beliefs and support one another’s medical expenses. Instead of paying a corporation, you are joining a group of people who agree to share in your Shareable Medical Bills (SMB) while you do the same for them. The ministry acts as the facilitator, making sure your contributions are matched with the needs of other families in the community. To find the right fit for your life, you need to look past the surface and compare these four specific areas.
1. Look at the “PPO” vs. “Open” Network (how to compare options)
When you’re looking at health share programs, how to compare them and what to look out for, the first thing you should check is the doctor network. Some programs require you to negotiate as a “self-pay” patient every time you see a doctor.
- WeShare simplifies this by giving you access to the PHCS® PPO Network.
- This means you have access to over 1.2 million doctors, hospitals, and specialty providers who already have pre-negotiated rates with the ministry.
- You also have access to over 68,000 retail pharmacies through CVS Caremark™ and over 800 CVS MinuteClinic® locations.
2. Do the Math (AMCS vs. MCA) how to compare options
In a sharing program, you don’t have premiums or deductibles.
Instead, you have a Monthly Contribution Amount (MCA) and an Annual Member Care Share (AMCS).
- Your AMCS is the annual amount you commit to paying for your own care before your bills become eligible for sharing.
- WeShare offers five different program tiers so you can choose a balance that works for you.
- If you want a lower monthly payment, you might choose a higher AMCS (up to $12,000 for individuals).
- If you want more security and lower out-of-pocket costs when you’re sick, you can choose an AMCS as low as $1,000.
3. Don’t Overlook the Wellness Perks (how to compare options)
Most people only think about what happens when they get sick, but a great program should help you stay well.
- You should look for a ministry that includes proactive care, like annual wellness and preventative visits shared at 100 percent.
- WeShare includes a Wellness Perks package valued at over $1,000.
- This includes 10 free online therapy sessions per year through BetterHelp.
- It also includes access to fitness and nutrition tools like FitBod, Active&Fit Direct, and HelloFresh.
- You can even earn a Healthy Discount of up to 20% off your monthly contribution by meeting certain health improvement goals.
4. Check the Consultation Fees
Instead of co-pays, sharing programs use fixed consultation fees.
- You should compare these fees for everyday needs like primary care ($25), specialists ($75), or urgent care ($50).
- With WeShare, these fees are not subject to your AMCS, which means you get the benefit of lower costs the moment you join the community.
How to compare options and Making Your Final Choice
At the end of the day, you aren’t just buying a service; you are joining a community of like minded individuals who are committed to helping each other share the financial and emotional burdens of healthcare. While healthcare sharing is not insurance and doesn’t offer a legal guarantee of payment, it offers a way to manage your health with others who share your values.
Ready to stop the guesswork and start sharing? Compare WeShare’s program tiers to find the right fit for you and your family today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a health share program?
A health share program is a member-based healthcare sharing model where individuals contribute monthly toward eligible medical expenses shared within the community.
Is health sharing considered insurance?
No. Health sharing ministries are not insurance companies. They are nonprofit organizations that facilitate the sharing of medical costs between members.
What should I compare when choosing a health share program?
You should compare provider networks, monthly contribution amounts, annual member responsibility amounts, pharmacy access, and additional wellness benefits.
Does WeShare use a PPO network?
Yes. WeShare provides access to the PHCS PPO Network, which includes a large network of doctors, hospitals, and healthcare providers.
Can families join a health share program?
Yes. Many health share programs, including WeShare, offer options for individuals, couples, and families.
