When financial pressures mount and expenses seem to outpace income families often seek ways to cut costs and reduces their budgets. However, a common problem is underestimating the importance of health insurance.
This issue is particularly occurs during times of employment transitions whether one partner is starting a new job who lost their job earlier, is becoming self-employed, or simply finds insurance premiums unaffordable.
Fortunately, there is an alternative to traditional health insurance that goes with families’ values while decreasing the risks of being uninsured.
Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) provides a trusted cost-effective solution to medical insurance by enabling members to share each other’s medical expenses. cheering the spirit of Galatians 6 CHM members support one another not only through financial contributions but also through prayer and encouragement.
Established in 1981 CHM is the first and longest-running health cost-sharing ministry in the U.S. assisting members for over four decades. In 2023 alone over 68,000 families across all 50 states benefited from CHM often enjoying savings of 45% or more totaling approximately $672.9 million.
Headquartered in northeastern Ohio CHM operates as a nonprofit organization rather than an insurance company. Under the leadership of CEO J. Craig Brown II, CHM holds 501(c)(3) status and is recognized as a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity. It has also received accreditation from Demotech, an independent firm that evaluates financial stability.
How CHM Works
Members of CHM contribute to the eligible medical expenses of members, selecting from various programs: CHM Gold, CHM Silver, CHM Bronze, or CHM SeniorShare™. An additional option CHM Plus, provides further protection against catastrophic medical costs.
To help families potential savings, CHM offers a health insurance tool on its website where you can compare it with others. For instance, a family of four without health insurance could save an estimated $6,619 by opting for the CHM Gold program, costing just $801 per month.
CHM provides a straightforward comparison of its four programs, assisting families in making informed choices.
A Viable Alternative to Health Insurance
CHM is designed as an affordable substitute for traditional health insurance plans. It is recognized as a federal exemption under the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate offering a supportive option for individuals and families.
With CHM members have the right to select their health care providers without network limitations. They can easily upload their eligible medical bills and complete a few simple questions through the online Member Portal. CHM then processes these bills, ensuring members receive their funds promptly. There are no binding contracts allowing members to choose their level of participation at any time. Membership begins immediately upon application, with no waiting period.
CHM sets a cap of $125,000 for each medical issue with additional assistance available through the CHM Plus plan. Its offerings cater to individuals, couples, and families, with all children counted as a single “unit” regardless of the number making CHM an attractive option for larger families.
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