Understanding Christian healthcare sharing begins with understanding the language behind it.
Whether you’re exploring Christian healthcare sharing for the first time or are already part of a faith-driven community and want a clearer grasp of key terms, we’re here to make every unfamiliar phrase simple, clear, and easy to understand.
This glossary defines the most essential terms you’ll see as you learn how Christian healthcare sharing works.
A–Z Glossary of Christian Healthcare Sharing Terms
A
Annual Member Care Share (AMCS)
The amount a Sharing Member contributes toward eligible medical services in a calendar year before sharing begins. After Members reach their AMCS, eligible needs may be shared according to the program’s guidelines.
C
Catastrophic program
A faith-centered Sharing Program designed to support Members during major, unexpected medical events. These programs typically focus on larger, less frequent medical needs and offer an affordable way to prepare for life’s emergencies. Programs like WeShare Access™ provide convenient, on-demand care and peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Christian health sharing partners
Community, charitable, and faith-driven organizations that share similar values and help support Members of a Christian healthcare sharing program in their whole-person well-being. These partners – often including resources for nutrition, spiritual growth, fitness, mental health, and leadership – strengthen the community by expanding access to compassionate, faith-aligned wellness tools.
Comprehensive program
A broad Sharing Program that supports a wide range of eligible medical needs, from everyday care to more complex situations. WeShare® offers its most comprehensive option through flexible access to virtual and in-person care, making it easy for Members to manage their health with confidence and choose providers who best support their well-being.
Consult fee
The amount a Member pays directly to a provider at the time services are received. This amount is credited toward the total bill submitted as a Shareable Medical Bill.
E
Extended care programs
Additional sharing support designed for Members facing severe illnesses or unexpected accidents. WeShare® Extended Care Programs, such as S.M.A.R.T. Care and A.I.D.D. Care helps lessen the financial strain of major life events by supporting expenses related to recovery, including household bills, in-home care needs, and other essential costs connected to a Member’s health journey.
H
Healthcare sharing
The voluntary practice of Christians contributing Monthly Contribution Amounts (MCAs) to help facilitate sharing for eligible medical needs. Healthcare sharing reflects a community-driven approach rooted in shared values.
Healthcare sharing ministry
A non-profit organization of Christians who share common beliefs and support one another by sharing eligible medical expenses. These ministries facilitate the sharing process through structured Sharing Programs.
Holistic health
An approach to wellness that considers physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual health as interconnected parts of a whole. Many Christian families value holistic health as an expression of honoring God with their bodies.
I
Illness
A condition that affects a person’s physical, emotional, or mental well-being and may require medical attention. In a Christian healthcare sharing context, medical needs related to an illness may be reviewed to determine whether they are eligible for sharing according to the Membership Guidelines.
M
MCA (Monthly Contribution Amount)
The voluntary monthly contributions Members make to participate in a Sharing Program. MCAs help facilitate the sharing of eligible medical needs.
Medicare
A federal health care program that provides healthcare services for eligible individuals. In some Sharing Programs, certain services may be considered for sharing after Medicare, depending on Membership Guidelines.
Ministry
A faith-driven organization committed to Christian mission and community care. In a healthcare sharing context, a ministry provides structure for Members to support one another.
P
Pre-existing condition
A medical condition for which symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment existed before a Member’s effective date. In healthcare sharing, medical needs related to pre-existing conditions are reviewed according to the Membership Guidelines to determine whether they are eligible or ineligible for sharing.
S
Shareable Medical Bill (SMB)
A medical bill submitted by a Member that may be reviewed and deemed eligible for sharing according to Membership Guidelines.
Shareable services
Services that may be eligible for sharing, depending on program guidelines. This term reflects potential sharing participation.
Sharing eligibility
A determination of whether a medical service may be eligible for sharing based on Membership Guidelines. Sharing is voluntary and based on contributions from other Members.
Sharing program
A structured program that defines how Members contribute, participate, and share eligible medical needs. Each program includes its own features and guidelines.
U–W
UHSM™ (Unite Health Share Ministries)
A Christian Healthcare Sharing Ministry that facilitates Member-to-Member sharing of eligible medical expenses through faith-centered Sharing Programs.
WeShare®
A healthcare sharing program administered by UHSM™. WeShare® offers a variety of Sharing Programs designed to support eligible medical needs while encouraging holistic health and Christian community support.
Download the full glossary of terms here.
Why a Clear Glossary Matters
Clear, faith-aligned language helps families understand how a Sharing Program works and how to participate with confidence. Whether you’re new to Christian healthcare sharing or looking to deepen your understanding, this glossary offers a foundation for navigating terms with ease.
To continue learning, visit the WeShare® Blog page.
