Understanding Health Sharing Plans
Health sharing is NOT insurance — it's a community of people who share medical costs. Over 1.5 million Americans use it, typically saving 40–60% compared to traditional insurance.
How Health Sharing Works
Health sharing organizations (also called health care sharing ministries or HCSMs) are groups of people who agree to share each other's medical costs. You pay a monthly "share amount" (similar to a premium), and when you have a major medical need, the community shares the cost.
Key differences from insurance: health sharing is voluntary, doesn't guarantee payment, and most organizations have lifestyle guidelines (though some, like Knew Health, have no faith requirements).
What Health Sharing Covers
Typically Shared
- Emergency room visits
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Specialist visits
- Diagnostic imaging (MRI, CT, X-ray)
- Maternity (after waiting period)
- Prescriptions (varies by plan)
Typically NOT Shared
- Pre-existing conditions (waiting period applies)
- Cosmetic procedures
- Mental health (limited in many plans)
- Substance abuse treatment
- Preventive care (some plans include it)
Comparing Health Sharing Plans
| Plan | Family/Mo | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Zion HealthShare | $295-555 | HSA compatibility, DPC tier |
| Sedera Health | $200-500 | DPC integration, $0 Rx |
| OneShare Health | $300-700 | HSA MEC add-on, catastrophic |
| Medi-Share | $400-850 | Largest community, families |
| Knew Health | $300-600 | No faith requirement, bill negotiation |
Health Sharing + DPC: The Stack
Health sharing covers major medical (ER, surgery, hospitalization), while DPC covers everything else (primary care, labs, prescriptions). Together, they replace traditional insurance at a fraction of the cost. Add an HSA for the tax benefits, and you have the complete healthcare stack.
Important Disclaimers
Health sharing is NOT insurance. It does not guarantee payment of medical bills. There are no legally binding obligations for the organization to pay.
Pre-existing conditionstypically have waiting periods of 12–36 months before they are eligible for sharing.
No network requirements,which means you can see any provider — but you're responsible for negotiating or using the organization's bill negotiation services.
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Kailo provides educational information only. Always verify details directly with the health sharing organization.